Villa Cortona

Perched elegantly upon the hillside, alongside three other villas, rests the beachfront splendour of Villa Cortona. This serene and upscale gem finds its home in the coveted neighbourhood of Plai Laem. A mere twenty-minute drive from the airport ensures that your relaxation begins almost as soon as you arrive! The panoramic vista encompasses the petite Koh Samui isle and stretches out to Koh Phang Nga.

Koh Samui boasts superb beaches, vibrant cultural attractions, delectable local cuisine, enchanting islets and a calendar brimming with special events. Temple Fairs, commemorating significant dates in the Buddhist calendar, metamorphose the temple grounds into miniature festivals, complete with fairground amusements and games for all to revel in.

The serene and gilded Big Buddha, reigning from the pinnacle of a ceremonial stairway at Wat Phra Yai, the mummified monks at Wat Khunaram, the captivating Wat Khao Hua Jook temple, the cascading Hin Lat Waterfall, the enigmatic Secret Buddha Garden, the allure of Fisherman's Village in Bophut and the enchanting rock formations of Hin Ta and Hin Yai are within comfortable reach of the villa. The Wat Teepankorn temple, nestled atop a mountain near Lamai, can be accessed via an off-road expedition. The towering Buddha statue and the breathtaking panoramic vistas from the summit are exquisite. The Secret Buddha Garden, crowning the Tar Nim Waterfall peak, offers majestic views along with a splendid assortment of statues. Crafted by Nim Thongsuk, a venerable Samui fruit farmer, the garden's statues and temples dot the family's land, creating a legacy that continued until his passing at the age of 91. Each statue conceals an enthralling tale.

Boat escapades to the Ang Thong National Marine Park or to Koh Nang Yuan, picturesque islands adorned with expansive sandbars and vibrant coral reefs are exceedingly popular. These excursions present hiking, snorkelling, kayaking, and diving opportunities, unveiling the islands' awe-inspiring scenic magnificence. Dusky leaf monkeys, long-tailed macaques, leopard cats, wild boar, and otters, alongside flocks of exotic avian species and kaleidoscopic schools of fish, may grace your sightings. A trip to Koh Phangan, Thailand's fifth largest island, allures party enthusiasts with its legendary half-moon and full-moon revelries. The island's pristine character features expansive, ivory-sand beaches, a hilly and luxuriant tropical jungle interior, and remarkable dive sites.

For those inclined towards revelry, the neon-adorned heart of central Chewang, a brief drive south from the villa, awaits. Many exotic bars host a carnival of inexpensive drinks, pulsating music and even risqué go-go bars and ladyboy shows. The six-kilometer-long Chaweng Beach hosts vibrant beach parties, water parks, mini-golf, cocktail establishments and dining venues. Cheweng stands as the island's bustling epicentre.

The golden sands of Choeng Mon Beach and the endless expanse of Bangrak Beach lure visitors as well. Bangrak, adorned with trendy beach clubs such as Chi, Tembo and The Prestige, offers a peaceful ambiance alongside active fishermen, dog walkers, and sunset admirers.

Bophut's Fisherman's Village is an absolute must-see. The rustic buildings have morphed into chic eateries, boutiques, gift shops, coffee havens, art galleries and dive centers. On Fridays, the village transforms into a vivacious Walking Street market, a splendid locale for buying souvenirs and savoring street fare. This village stands as the neon-lit nucleus of the island, alive with nightlife, shopping, massages and charming boho cafés.

Read more about Koh Samui

Koh Samui

Koh Samui, an idyllic tropical island nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, is a paradise that beckons visitors with its pristine beaches, stunning monuments, lush jungles and vibrant culture. This enchanting destination seamlessly combines the allure of a laid-back beach retreat with the excitement of diverse activities and attractions.

One of the island's iconic jewels is the Big Buddha, a colossal golden statue that stands at 12 metres tall. This sacred landmark offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Another must-visit is the mystical Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks, natural formations that resemble male and female genitalia, surrounded by fascinating local folklore. Koh Samui boasts so many stunning architectural marvels. The majestic Wat Plai Laem is a Buddhist temple which stands out with its intricate artwork and vibrant colours. The imposing 18-armed statue of Guanyin, the goddess of compassion, is amazing while the Secret Buddha Garden, hidden in the island's lush interior, showcases a collection of statues and sculptures that depict various scenes from Buddhist mythology.

For a taste of cultural immersion, the Fisherman's Village in Bophut is a charming blend of traditional Thai architecture and modern amenities. This area hosts a lively night market with an array of stalls selling handicrafts, clothing and delicious local cuisine. Visitors enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Chaweng Beach, renowned for its lively nightlife, bustling markets and a wonderful array of beachfront bars and restaurants. The charming fishing villages of Mae Nam and Lamai offer a glimpse into the island's more traditional side, where visitors can interact with locals, sample fresh seafood and experience the authentic pace of life.

Adventure seekers will find their haven in the island's water-based activities. Snorkeling and diving in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Koh Samui reveal a mesmerising underwater world teeming with vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine life. The island also offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding and boat excursions to nearby islets.

For those seeking relaxation, spa treatments and wellness retreats abound, with luxury resorts offering traditional Thai massages and holistic therapies. Yoga enthusiasts can partake in beachside sessions, harmonizing body and mind with the soothing sounds of the ocean.

Koh Samui's accessibility makes it an ideal hub to explore nearby islands and mainland attractions. A short boat ride takes visitors to Koh Phangan, renowned for its Full Moon Parties and pristine beaches. The vibrant and culturally rich city of Surat Thani on the mainland is easily accessible, providing a glimpse into local Thai life.

Koh Samui caters to families with an array of family-friendly attractions. The Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo provide an opportunity for children to marvel at exotic marine life and get up close with majestic tigers. The Coco Splash Adventure & Water Park offers a thrilling day out with water slides, pools and activities for all ages. Nature-loving families can explore the lush interior of the island, trekking to waterfalls such as Na Muang, where refreshing natural pools await. Elephant sanctuaries also provide a chance for children to interact with these gentle giants in an ethical and educational environment.

Koh Samui is a destination that offers an unforgettable experience. Whether it is the tranquil beaches, cultural landmarks or thrilling adventures, this tropical gem in the Gulf of Thailand is a testament to the allure of Southeast Asia.