Anantara Si Kao opens in South Krabi, Thailand

Anantara Si Kao opens in South Krabi, Thailand
Set on the secluded Changlang Beach south of Krabi, the area's long stretches of sand, virgin tropical rainforest, incredible caves and beautiful waterfalls all combine to make this one of Thailand's best kept secrets.

Located in the charmingly uncommercial Trang Province, approximately one hour's drive from Krabi International Airport, the resort is framed by whispering casuarinas trees and beckoning tropical islands. Guests can unwind in laid-back luxury, explore the stunning environment or perhaps get up close and personal with the famous Dugong (Sea Cow) herds that populate the region. Whether guests arrive in search of the energising pleasures of the array of water and land-based activities on offer, or to surrender to complete relaxation, Anantara Si Kao creates an unforgettable dream of an unspoilt Thailand.

Anantara Si Kao has 138 deluxe rooms and suites, all set within the vibrant lushness of Bill Bensley-designed gardens and most with stunning views of the Andaman Sea. Each room features Thai-inspired décor, luxurious bathroom with terrazzo tub for two and a private balcony or terrace. The seven pool suites take luxury and elegance to the next level with 28 square metre plunge pools, a range of high-tech amenities and unparalleled views of the ocean.

There is a range of dining options to suit every taste. Leelawadee offers a mélange of world flavours with indoor and outdoor dining options. Start the day with a breakfast of freshly squeezed juices, bread and pastries straight from the oven and cooked items that as healthy or as wholesome as the mood dictates. Guests returning from a morning excursion can choose from a selection of European favourites such as salads, pasta and sandwiches, or from a menu of Thai classics. As night falls, diners can delight their palates with bold and spicy southern Thai dinner specialties.

At the Beach House, guests can cast themselves adrift on the romantic “daybed boat” and enjoy a wide range of beverages from international and local beers, refreshing signature and classic cocktails, wines by the glass or a fresh local juice. Inventive light snacks are available throughout the day.

The signature evening restaurant is Acqua offering classic and contemporary Italian cuisine. Executive Chef Kelly Brennan incorporates the daily bounty of local fishermen as well as international produce into her creative menus. The resident Wine Guru is always on hand to help guests choose the perfect bottle to accompany their meal.

With Dining By Design, couples can fashion their own romantic dinner at any location of their choice and let their own acclaimed personal chef cook up culinary temptations with a one-of-a-kind Anantara experience. Dining locations include the beach, forest, herb garden, spa or in room.

A true destination experience, the resort is located within Chao Mai National Park, covering the coastal area and dozens of fairytale islands dotted amidst the glittering turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. Activities and excursions are Anantara Si Kao's passion. A team of experts is on hand every day at the Diversions Centre to help guests seek out new experiences in the resort or around the region. Expeditions to stunning natural wonders include a journey into the Emerald Cave, boat trips to stunning limestone karsts and picnics on idyllic deserted islands. Visits can also be arranged to cultural treasures, vibrant street markets and historic centres. For guests who want to get out and about under there only steam the resort has excellent facilities including canoes and kayaks for serene expeditions through mangrove forests, catamarans for sailing across the gentle blue waters, and bicycles for a quick trip to the nearby fishermen's village or longer adventures to meet the monkeys that inhabit the national park. Nothing could be more romantic than a private sunset cruise or more thrilling than an exclusive island-hopping tour aboard the Andaman Lady. The region is renowned for its world-class scuba-diving sites and both beginner's courses and advanced dives may be arranged though the resort's PADI dive centre.

In addition, guests can indulge at Anantara Si Kao's exclusive Beach Club on the nearby stunning tropical island of Koh Kradan with its rugged limestone cliffs and vast rubber plantations. The white sands and calm waters make this private day resort the perfect haven for swimming, water sports and snorkeling while the beachside restaurant serves delicious food cooked to order.

Those who want to cocoon themselves in luxury back at the resort may seek out the tranquility of the swimming pool or relax as a family at the separate children's pool. The Library offers a wide range of books and films as well as internet access, whilst the Fitness Studio has all the state-of-the-art equipment needed to keep in trim. A full diary of daily events allows guests to learn yoga, the secrets of Thai cuisine, the art of batik and even how to speak with local people in their own language. And no stay at Si Kao would be complete without some signature pampering at the renowned Anantara Spa. Based on a lotus theme, the elegant serenity of the design complements perfectly the extensive choice of traditional and modern therapies. A unique combination of natural local ingredients is blended into luxurious products that achieve visible and lasting results.

A new innovation at Anantara Spa is the launch of Wellness 360 – a lifestyle concept designed to enhance health, beauty and overall well-being. A range of packages is available including beauty, de-stress, slimming and detox programmes lasting 1, 3, 7, 10 and 14 days. Treatments are tailor-made by Dr Gopal, the qualified Naturopathic doctor, and carried out by highly trained therapists through the sense of touch, diet, massage, exercise and spiritual healing.

For younger guests, a special welcome awaits at the Dugong Club. Parents can indulge in a bit of 'Me' time safe in the knowledge that the children are having fun with a full range of indoor and outdoor experiences – all under the watchful eye of the caring and energetic kids' club staff. Discover another side of Thailand, and perhaps yourself, at Anantara Si Kao Resort & Spa, Thailand.