Review of Rayavadee, by Julie Miller

If there is a hotel with a more swoon-inducing location than the Rayavadee in Krabi, Thailand, I am yet to find it. Nestled into 26 acres of mature tropical gardens on the stunning Phranang Peninsula, flanked by soaring limestone cliffs and with three beach frontages, this award-winning five-star resort offers unobtrusive luxury in what only can be described as a picture-perfect paradise.

It's a good 15-minute walk from the arrival lobby to our spa pavilion overlooking the white crescent of Railay Beach, lapped by the emerald Andaman Sea. While golf buggies are available for ferrying guests between facilities, most guests choose to meander along the path, absorbing the tranquillity. However, it pays to be well-prepared, laden with cameras and beach essentials, given the distance between facilities.

The facilities

Prime position is given to the resort's three restaurants. Raitalay Terrace has poolside views across stunning Railay Beach; while Raya Dining sits beside sparkling Nammao Bay, a hive of activity with longtail boats unloading backpackers and rock climbers visiting the region's renowned cliffs. With no road access, the only way to this peninsula is by boat; the resort offering a speedboat transfer for arrival in style.

Nestled around this arrival point is the resort's lobby, a guest activity centre, boutique and library, with free broadband internet for guests.

Phranang Beach is arguably the prettiest beach in the world, backed by imposing limestone formations and with views across the Andaman Sea to Phi Phi Island. The resort's signature Thai restaurant, Krua Phranang, overlooks the Princess Cave, a dramatic fissure that serves as a temple for the goddess of fertility (with subsequent graphic offerings); while the Grotto Bar sits beneath a surreal overhang, providing an ethereal toes-in-sand cocktail experience.

The Rayavadee Spa is a haven of tranquillity, featuring treatments utilising herbs plucked straight from the surrounding garden. I indulged in a Signature Massage combining traditional Thai techniques with hot oil compresses soaked in herbs, and was impressed with the firm touch, experience and knowledge of my therapist.

The rooms

Rayavadee's spacious two-storey Deluxe Pavilions are warm and inviting, with Thai furnishings, polished wood finishes and cosy spaces for relaxation. A hanging daybed downstairs sets the mood, while the loft bed is the largest I've encountered. Spa Pavilions feature private gardens with an outdoor Jacuzzi; while private plunge pools make the Hydro-Pool Pavilions the best choice for those who cherish privacy.

In a resort of this price range, attention to detail is paramount, and Rayavadee doesn't disappoint with its impressive range of exquisite natural beauty products, complimentary fruit platters and herbal tea concoctions. For the ultimate indulgence, the five Rayavadee Villas occupy prime real estate with private butler service, killer views, free form swimming pools and secluded living spaces.