Nestled amidst the captivating azure waters and surrounded by lush rainforests, the Conrad Koh Samui is perched on the tropical haven of Koh Samui. Honoring its prestigious reputation, this luxury pool villa resort was awarded the coveted title of Global Winner of Luxury Hideaway Resort 2014 by the World Luxury Hotel Awards, as well as Asia’s Leading Honeymoon Resort by the World Travel Awards 2015. Reviewed : Asia paid a visit this exquisite retreat to assess whether it lived up to its acclaim.
getting there
Koh Samui stands as one of Thailand’s most favored destinations for both international travelers and locals alike. Consequently, reaching the island is remarkably convenient, whether you’re arriving from abroad or already within Thailand.
Our journey transported us smoothly from Bangkok to Samui via a direct 60-minute flight with the reputable local carrier, Bangkok Airways. As Samui Airport is relatively small in scale, you can anticipate a swift exit within 20 minutes of landing. For those arriving via internal flights, the absence of customs procedures expedites the process even further.
Upon exiting, a transportation counter stands ready to provide shared or private transfers to the resort. Opting for a shared van costs a mere $10 per person, while a private vehicle for four passengers amounts to $30, with a travel time of 45 minutes to an hour to reach Conrad Koh Samui, positioned on the opposite side of the island.
The setting
Positioned on the southwestern tip of the idyllic Thai island, the Conrad Koh Samui boasts an unparalleled vantage point, overlooking the crystalline reefs of Aow Thai Beach from its dramatic hillside perch. The resort’s secluded locale is home to 81 standalone villas, each boasting private balconies that command breathtaking vistas over the Gulf of Thailand. Our senses were overwhelmed as we arrived, encountering a property artfully constructed atop steep rocky hills.
Given that the resort’s internal pathways navigate the undulating terrain, buggies are a necessity, operating 24/7 under the care of the Conrad team.
Spanning 25 acres, every edifice within the Conrad estate, including the villas, is meticulously erected on elevated piles. This design choice guarantees exceptional panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand, distant islands, and the lush landscape adorned with coconut plantations, no matter where one is situated within the resort. This distinctive trait also yields a splendid backdrop for the stunning sunsets that can be savored directly from your villa’s private terrace, or at one of the resort’s dining venues or bars.
"The Conrad Koh Samui is one of those luxury retreats that etches itself into your memory from the moment you arrive, leaving an enduring impression long after your departure. ”
THE ROOMS
Recognized as one of the world’s most exceptional and innovative luxury resorts, Conrad Koh Samui seamlessly fuses opulence, technology, artistry, and expertise. Our sumptuous pool villa was adorned with refined Thai silks and authentic handicrafts, all while seamlessly integrating state-of-the-art technological solutions such as satellite television, Apple-based TV, iPod docking, and high-speed internet access via Wi-Fi.
Having been graciously upgraded to the highest villa category, we reveled in additional features, including the finest view over the Gulf of Thailand from our room, an integrated Bose Sound System with speakers artfully dispersed throughout the villa, and our own Apple iPads, catering to those who prefer to travel light.
Encompassing 130 square meters of indoor and outdoor space, our villa’s comfort was so alluring that we didn’t mind spending most of our time there, even during rainy intervals. The most striking feature of the Conrad Samui villas, serving as a truly unique selling point for the property, is the private terrace boasting a sundeck and a 10-meter infinity-edge pool for all pool villas—a facet sure to entice honeymooners seeking added seclusion.
Languish in your private pool, indulge in a lavish soak in the oversized bathtub, or delight in an invigorating rain shower in the villa’s lavishly appointed bathroom before proceeding to sunset beverages and dinner.
Additional lodging options at the resort encompass 297-square-meter two-bedroom pool villas, 766-square-meter three-bedroom pool villas, and a royal ocean view pool villa.
Leisure & Well-being
Koh Samui’s idyllic setting renders it an exceptional locale for rejuvenation. The Conrad Koh Samui boasts an array of premium facilities and equipment to cater to its guests.
For those preferring a change of scenery from their private villa pool, the resort’s exquisite infinity pool overlooking the sea beckons for refreshing swims. Sun lounges are thoughtfully arranged alongside the pool, with additional options available by the adjacent beach.
The resort’s gymnasium is equipped with the latest cardiovascular and muscle-building apparatus, encompassing elliptical trainers, weight sets, and treadmills. Post-exercise, a session in the sauna followed by a brisk dip in the cold plunge pool promises to soothe any aching muscles.
Younger family members are in for a treat, as the Kids Club staff orchestrates a variety of complimentary and engaging activities tailored to children under 12. These include cultural arts and crafts sessions, as well as both indoor and outdoor games.
Conrad Koh Samui further extends a luxury tour and activity center, enabling guests to arrange excursions on the property to explore the best of Koh Samui and its environs. Tailored packages encompass day excursions to nearby islands or diving tours to sought-after dive sites such as Sail Rock and Koh Tao.
CULINARY EXPERIENCES
The Conrad Koh Samui extends a delectable array of eight dining choices throughout your stay. Here are our top picks:
JAHN
A culinary treasure within the Conrad Koh Samui’s crown. With an exclusive capacity of only 28 seats, this venue offers the pinnacle of Thai and pan-Asian cuisine, all while overlooking the moonlit resort and the awe-inspiring Gulf of Thailand. A must-visit, especially for those on a honeymoon escape.
ZEST
Bask in Mediterranean delights against the backdrop of sublime ocean views at this all-day dining venue. We frequented Zest for both our daily breakfasts and one of our dinners. The restaurant’s “Food Library” artfully showcases prepared ingredients that seamlessly transition into tantalizing dishes. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available.
AZURE BAR & GRILL
A favored destination that resides beside the main resort infinity pool, encircled by meticulously landscaped gardens. The relaxed, open-air ambiance of Azure Bar and Grill offers a casual dining experience. Graced by affable staff, unpretentious culinary creations, and an enthralling fire dance performance during meals, we were thoroughly enamored.
FINAL VERDICT
The Conrad Koh Samui is one of those luxury retreats that etches itself into your memory from the moment you arrive, leaving an enduring impression long after your departure.
As our visit coincided with a honeymoon excursion, we cherished the breathtaking surroundings, the serene ambiance, and above all, the intimacy this sanctuary affords couples.
While it is undoubtedly a splendid honeymoon destination, the resort equally lends itself as a remarkable location for celebrating the union itself, with specially designed packages available.
Whether it’s an intimate beachfront wedding enveloped in tropical palms or a ceremony overlooking the azure waters of the Gulf of Thailand, the diverse range of indoor and outdoor settings promises to help you realize the wedding of your dreams.
Nearby Points of Interest:
• Chaweng Beach: Shopping and nightlife
• Lamai Beach: Restaurants and shopping
• Elephant trekking and adventures
• Santiburi Country Club: Championship 18-hole golf course
• Premier scuba and diving sites in Thailand
• Wat Kiri Wongkaram (Temple of the mummified monk)
CONTACT INFO
Address: 49/8-9 Hillcrest Road Amphoe Ko Samui, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84140, Thailand
Phone: +66 77 915 888
Website: http://conradhotels3.hilton.
