Villa Essenza

Located within the exclusive Sava Beach Villas estate, just moments from the glistening sands of Natai Beach, a peaceful strip of sand to the north of Phuket, Villa Essenza is ideal for small families or groups seeking seclusion and endless sunsets.  The villas offer a tranquil hideaway in a rural setting but is only an hour’s drive from the buzz of Phuket’s beach resorts and less than half an hour from the island’s international airport.

Natai Beach is perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking and swimming and The Aleenta and Iniala Beach resorts, both just along the sand, offer award-winning dining. Should you crave a change of scenery, a stroll down the beach or a short drive will bring you to a choice of local seafood restaurants and fine dining at the Iniala and Aleenta resorts.

Guests can cycle along the coastal roads of the Natai Beach area and explore the lush rural landscapes with coconut and banana plantations and buffalo herds. The beautiful Phang Nga Bay is directly accessible from the villa itself, and the Raya Islands, Similan Islands, Koh Phi Phi and more are all within an easy day’s sail. Guests can explore the delights of the Andaman Sea aboard a luxury yacht charter, or on a scuba diving or snorkelling excursion that can be easily arranged by the villa manager.

The natural hot springs in Phang Nga are also worth a visit, and The Hotspring Beach Resort and Spa is happy to accommodate day-trippers who are looking to relax on the spacious property. There are two hot pools as well as two cold pools, and an on-site restaurant to grab a bite to eat and refreshments before dipping into the pools once again. Guests can take an early morning hike up to the Samet Nangshe viewpoint, where incredible panoramic views of Phang Nga Bay are visible.

For golf fans, two of the area’s top courses are found in northern Phuket, the Blue Canyon Country Club (23km away), with two 18-hole courses set on 730 lush acres of former tin mine land, or Mission Hills Phuket Golf Club (29km), an ocean-view Nicklaus Design course on the east coast. Phuket also has a brilliant beach club scene: decadent brunches, DJ dance parties and romantic sunset dinners are all within a short distance of Villa Essenza.

Take a cultural tour of Phuket’s rich history and traditional life, learn more about the history behind the restored Sino-Portuguese shops and mansions and sample some of the island’s best local cuisine. There are countless temples and religious monuments to visit in Phuket; those that seek to immerse themselves in the Thai culture will not be disappointed.

Guests can also learn how to make fragrant and spicy Thai cuisine in a cookery class at the nearby Nahmyaa restaurant in Como Point Yamu resort, or try out some of the modest but delicious low-key eateries serving authentic Thai food on the Natai beachfront or in Kokkloy town.

Read more about Phuket

Phuket

Nestled in the Andaman Sea, Phuket, Thailand's largest island, is a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and modern indulgence. This tropical haven has evolved from a quaint fishing village to a global tourist hotspot, offering a diverse range of attractions and activities for all.

The bustling heart of Phuket, Patong Beach, is a vibrant stretch of golden sand lined by a kaleidoscope of shops, restaurants and lively nightlife. Visitors can indulge in water sports, savour delicious local street food or immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere. The historical quarter of Phuket Town transports visitors back in time with its colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Quaint cafes, art galleries and colourful, buzzing markets create a charming atmosphere, making it a perfect place to explore on foot. A colossal cultural theme park, Phuket FantaSea showcases the island's rich heritage through theatrical performances, traditional dance and a grand buffet. The ornate architecture of the park itself is a spectacle, evoking the charm of Thai folklore. As you wander through the streets of Old Phuket Town, you will encounter elegant, beautifully restored Sino-Portuguese mansions which reflect the island's historical ties with Chinese and European traders.

Standing at 45 metres tall, the iconic Big Buddha is a symbol of Phuket's spirituality. Set on the top of Nakkerd Hill, the statue offers panoramic views of the island and the Andaman Sea. The site also features a learning centre about Buddhism and meditation. As one of Phuket's most revered temples, Wat Chalong is a testament to the island's cultural heritage. The intricate architecture and serene surroundings provide a peaceful escape and visitors can participate in traditional ceremonies. A marvel of Chinese-Thai architecture, the Jui Tui Shrine is a significant Taoist temple in Phuket Town. Its vibrant colours, intricate carvings and the aroma of incense create a captivating atmosphere, especially during annual festivals.

Phuket's underwater world is a mesmerising realm of vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life. Popular diving spots such as Shark Point and the Similan Islands attract divers from around the globe. A short boat ride away, the Phi Phi Islands boast crystal-clear waters, coral reefs and stunning limestone cliffs. Maya Bay, made famous by the movie "The Beach," is a must-visit, as are the snorkeling spots teeming with colourful marine life. Phuket serves as a gateway to various neighbouring islands. You can join an island-hopping tour to explore the diverse landscapes, from the lush greenery of James Bond Island to the pristine beaches of Koh Phi Phi. A short ferry ride away, Krabi boasts stunning limestone cliffs, clear waters and beautiful islands. Railay Beach and the Emerald Pool are popular attractions in this province. Known for its dramatic limestone karsts and the famous James Bond Island, Phang Nga Town offers a tranquil escape from the bustling Phuket.

Visitors also enjoy exploring ethical elephant sanctuaries, where they can interact with these majestic creatures in a responsible and sustainable environment and embracing the flavours of Thai cuisine by joining a cooking class and learning to whip up classic dishes like Pad Thai and Tom Yum Goong. Perfect for a family day out, Splash Jungle Water Park offers thrilling slides, lazy rivers and a dedicated kid's zone, ensuring a day of fun and excitement for all ages. Located in Cape Panwa, the Phuket Aquarium showcases the diverse marine life of the Andaman Sea.

Phuket is a multifaceted destination that caters to the diverse interests of every traveller. From the vibrant beaches to cultural landmarks and family-friendly activities, the island seamlessly combines tradition with modernity, creating an unforgettable experience for all who visit.