Elephant Hills, Khao Sok National Park – Thailand’s First Luxury Tent Jungle Camps

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A unique nature and animal experience in the Thai rainforest

Elephant Hills includes two camps, the Elephant Camp and the Lake Camp. Located in Khao Sok National Park, one of Thailand’s most beautiful and lush rainforests, they represent an utterly unique travel destination. Blending the concept of safari camps in African national parks with the tropical nature experience in southern Thailand’s Khao Sok National Park, Elephant Hills allows you to explore the fascinating beauty of the Thai rainforest while getting up close with Asian elephants. They offer award-winning 2–4-day all-inclusive nature experience tours in and around Khao Sok National Park, with luxurious accommodation in tents.

The Elephant Camp is situated at the edge of the national park, while the Lake Camp is nestled in the midst of Cheow Larn Lake, a 165 km² lake in the heart of Khao Sok. All Elephant Hills tours start at the Elephant Camp, where the first night is spent. The Lake Camp can be visited for a day trip or an overnight stay.

NATURE SAFARI (The Best of Southern Thailand) 

(4 days / 3 nights)

Day 1: The Amazing Elephant Experience

  • Transfer from the airport or hotel to Elephant Hills Camp in Khao Sok
  • Elephant Hills Elephant Experience: Feed and interact with Asia’s largest land animal. A truly touching experience in an almost untouched environment
  • Canoe safari on the Sok River. Sit back and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Khao Sok
  • Evening activities: Movie screening, dance performances, and cooking demonstrations

Day 2: Marvelous Mangrove Swamps

  • Explore the phenomenal Fig Tree Channel by speedboat
  • Paddle through one of the many mangrove channels by canoe
  • Relax on board our classic Burmese junk with lunch on board
  • Evening activities: Movie screening, dance performances, and cooking demonstrations

Day 3: Spectacular Cheow Larn Lake

  • Boat trip. Sightseeing in a traditional longtail boat on Cheow Larn Lake
  • Lunch and free time at the Lake Camp. Canoes are available to explore the spectacular surroundings
  • Return to Elephant Hills in the late afternoon
  • Evening activities: Movie screening, dance performance, and cooking demonstration

Day 4: Legendary Rainforest

  • Jungle trekking on foot through Southern Thailand’s unique rainforest
  • Lunch in the jungle or return to Elephant Hills, where a delicious lunch buffet is served before being transported to your next hotel or the airport

All tours >>

Elephant Camp

The swimming pool with terrace and marvellous jungle views is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Luxurious Glamping Tents

The luxurious tents, made of waterproof canvas, blend harmoniously with the surroundings, offering a comfortable retreat after a day of adventure.

In addition to a warm welcome, the tents offer all the amenities you would find in a regular 4-star hotel room. A cozy bed, a fan, kettle, hairdryer, shower, and toilet ensure a pleasant stay in the middle of the jungle. The furniture is handcrafted by the camp’s own craftsmen.

Elephant Safari

From the first day, there is an opportunity to interact with the majestic animals in a responsible environment. You can feed them, watch them bathing, and learn more about their lifestyle – all under the guidance of experienced caretakers.

Helping to feed the elephants is a wonderful way to spend some time with them and learn more about them.

Elephant riding is deliberately avoided.

Activities

Apart from elephants, Elephant Hills offers a variety of other activities, including boat trips on Cheow Lan Lake, jungle hikes, and encounters with local communities. You can immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the diversity of Thai nature up close.

Canoe Safari on Sok River

This canoe safari, despite the rain, was a truly special experience. Experiencing the tranquillity and beauty of nature is genuinely unique. With a bit of luck, you might even spot some wild animals.

It is Raining in the Rainforest

Khao Sok is one of the wettest places in Thailand, so rain can occur at any time. However, the sun can also shine at any time of the year! Normally, rain occurs in heavy showers for one or two hours, and thanks to temperatures above 25°C, it is a pleasant experience. Elephant Hills activities are specially designed for rainy days, making these adventure tours possible all year round.

Jungle Restaurant

In the open-air restaurant in the heart of the jungle, delicious buffet-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes are served, with cooking stations. Everything was mouthwatering.

Before dinner you can enjoy nature films, dance, or cooking demonstrations.

The young dancers come from the surrounding schools, allowing you to learn about the local culture, and students have the opportunity to meet guests from other countries and practice English. Elephant Hills Camp is one of the largest employers in the Khao Sok region.

Cooking Classes

A special highlight is the cooking classes in the evenings. Try and learn to cook delicious Thai food.

Lake/Rainforest Camp – Floating Bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake

After a visit to a famous dam and a boat trip on Cheow Lan Lake, you reach Elephant Hills’ floating bungalows.

After a tasty lunch, you can swim in the lake, go for a jungle hike, or take a canoe tour.

Mangrove Tour and Lunch on a Burmese Junk

Jungle-Safari

You can go on a tour through the jungle directly from the camp. At the end of the tour, a delicious lunch prepared over an open fire in the heart of the jungle awaits.

Social Engagement & Animal Welfare

Conclusion

The Elephant Hills Camps are more than just accommodation; they offer the opportunity to discover the treasures of Thailand’s nature while simultaneously contributing to the protection and preservation of wildlife. A visit here promises an unforgettable experience that enriches the spirit and touches the heart. We can only recommend it to a limited extent for honeymooners, as you may be unlucky, ending up in a group with noisy children (as we did). But it is still a wonderful adventure for those seeking a unique and wild nature experience away from mass tourism. Experiencing the gentle giants up close is, of course, the special highlight.

Rooms: 35 luxurious tents
Flight Duration: Approximately 11 hours from Germany to Bangkok and about 1 hour to Phuket
Transfer: Approximately 3 hours from Phuket Airport, about 3.5 hours from Krabi, other transfer options are available, for example, from/to Ko Phangan at an additional cost
Air Temperature: 23 – 32 degrees Celsius
Time Difference: GMT +6 hours
Best Travel Time: All year-round, as the adventure tours are designed for rainy days. It has a tropical monsoon climate, with rainfall ranging from a minimum of 64mm in February to a maximum of 409mm in July.
Price: NATURE SAFARI – 4 Days & 3 Nights (daily departures year-round) from 25,765.00 THB (approx. 723 USD) per person, including full board, extensive travel program, English-speaking Thai guides, and shared transfers to and from Elephant Hills.
Activities: Elephant feeding, boat trips, jungle tours, canoeing, swimming, excursions, cooking classes
Highlights: Beautiful location in breathtaking nature, extraordinary experiences with elephants, delicious food, incredibly friendly staff, beautiful tents in the middle of the tropical jungle
Perfect for: Nature lovers, animal lovers, couples and families

Elephant Hills
Khao Sok, Thailand
T +66 5200 1186
booking@elephanthills.com
www.elephanthills.com

World LUXURY Travel Awards Winner 2023 – Best Sustainable Tourism Destination Asia!
World LUXURY Travel Awards Winner 2023 – Best Luxury Camping Company!
World LUXURY Travel Awards Winner 2022 – Best Glamping Retreat!
World Luxury Awards 2021 – Nature Destination for Asia
Lux Life magazine awards 2020 – Thailand’s best luxury glamping holiday
World Travel Awards Winner 2020 – Asia’s leading luxury camping company
Responsible Thailand Awards 2018 – Eco Lodge
Elephant Hills wins PATA Grand Award 2018 – Environment
and many more

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Note: Elephant Hills sponsored our stay. Thank you so much! Nevertheless, the opinions expressed in this article are 100% unbiased!

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Back at Rayavadee, Krabi, Thailand – Luxurious Pavilions, Monkeys & Dream Pool at Railay Beach

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A Tropical Paradise for Humans & Animals

After having visited the paradisiacal 5-star resort with three beaches, a huge pool, and four restaurants surrounded by unbelievably beautiful nature and enchanting monkeys back in 2014, we returned there in May of this year. And the resort is still just as fantastic as it was back then. The magnificent pool set against the rocky backdrop remains incredibly impressive, and the monkeys are even more approachable.

Rayavadee is nestled in Krabi, in one of the most stunning areas in southern Thailand, right on the famous and beloved Railay Beach. Located on the edge of the Krabi Marine National Park and surrounded by impressive limestone cliffs, this is the perfect place to experience breathtaking sunsets over the turquoise Andaman Sea.

Rayavadee can only be accessed by water. The hotel’s own high-speed yacht shuttle picks you up at Nong Nuch Pier in Krabi and takes you to Nammao Beach in Railay West (a climbing mecca for rock climbers from all over the world). During low tide, a rustic tractor ride takes you to the shore.

The resort is nestled amidst three beaches – Phra Nang Beach in the south, Nammao Beach in Railay West, and Railay Beach in the east.

This luxurious beach resort covers 26 hectares of lush tropical landscapes and is part of the “Leading Hotels of the World” collection. There are more than 120 species of plants and tropical trees and more than 250 species of ferns and herbaceous trees to discover.

Infinity Pool with a Sea View

Once again, it was the spectacular infinity pool that drew us back to this idyllic resort. The view of the sea and the age-old rock formations is truly unique and incredibly beautiful. This time, the monkeys even frolicked in the trees around the pool.

The southern langur, recognizable by its white markings, is a conspicuous species that loves tropical rainforests. Here at Rayavadee, they seem to thrive, and you can observe them every day. At the same time every day, the entire troop ventures through the trees around the pool, feasting on leaves, buds, flowers, and bark. Many young ones swing around the branches like they are on a playground. You could watch them for hours.

The smallest langur babies have a yellow-orange fur until they are four months old.

With a bit of luck, you can also spot monitor lizards and hornbills in the vast tropical garden. With a self-guided garden walk map, you can explore the diversity of the area’s flora and fauna.

Luxurious Pavilions

Among giant coconut palms and fish ponds, you can stay in one of the 94 luxurious pavilions. These round pavilions are sustainably constructed from natural wood, covered with thatched roofs, and blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. All pavilions consist of two floors, with a living room on the lower floor and an elegantly designed bedroom with a bathroom on the upper floor.

Some pavilions even come with their own garden and private pool. There are also huge beach villas and family pavilions with two bedrooms.

Pool Pavillion

This time, we stayed in a 115 square metre Pool Pavilion with a large private pool (3 x 8 meters) and sun loungers. Nestled within a lush tropical garden, this Pool Pavilion offers a wonderfully secluded experience.

Inside the spacious pavilion, you will find artistic decor featuring bamboo, polished wood, vibrant fabrics, and handcrafted details. The bathroom, complete with a freestanding bathtub, is elegantly designed and provides luxurious care products, including mosquito repellent.

The evening lighting and overall ambiance are simply incredibly romantic. And do not miss out on taking an evening dip in the huge pool while watching the sunset.

RESTAURANTS

RAITALAY TERRACE (Railay Beach)

This open-plan restaurant is located right on the beach, adjacent to the infinity pool, offering breathtaking views of Railay Beach. It specializes in Mediterranean and International cuisine. During the day, you can even have a light snack brought to the poolside. And with a refreshing cocktail in hand, this is the perfect spot to enjoy the magnificent sunset.

KRUA PHRANANG (Phra Nang Beach)

This is the resort’s romantic Thai restaurant. Here, you can enjoy classic Thai dishes and specialties right by the sea, including curries, salads, soups, seafood, and freshly caught fish.

THE GROTTO (Phranang Beach)

The Grotto restaurant is one of the most famous in all of Thailand, nestled beneath an ancient limestone cliff on the edge of the stunning Phranang Beach. Here you can enjoy a leisurely lunch, or a twilight set menu dinner while watching the sunset.

This incredibly beautiful and special place is perfect for marriage proposals, romantic dinners, or even weddings.

RAYA DINING (Nammao Beach)

The main restaurant, Raya Dining, located at the foot of the immense cliffs at Nammao Beach, serves a diverse breakfast buffet, and on certain days, also Afternoon Tea. 

RAYAVADEE SPA

The Rayavadee Spa offers ancient Thai healing traditions and a philosophy of well-being that unites body, mind, and soul. You can choose from revitalizing facial treatments, scrubs, energizing body wraps, soothing massages, and a variety of salon treatments.

ROYAL SIAM MASSAGE

A vigorous and firm massage designed to reinvigorate the senses, employing a blend of Thai and other Asian healing techniques. During the treatment, elbow pressure is used to untie knots on the tense areas while stimulating blended oil relieves tension and relaxes the body.

The treatments in this unique setting are simply unparalleled!

RAYAVADEE SHOP

In the shop, you can find some beautiful things to take home with you. You can also purchase the wonderful spa products from the pavilions here. The scrubs, soaps, and mosquito sprays are simply terrific!

However, there has been a change here. The small shopping area used to be rather modest. But over the past few years, it has developed into a true party and shopping hotspot. So, where it used to be rather quiet, there now is a lot going on during the day and into the night.

CONCLUSION

We have now been to Rayavadee for the second time. The resort possesses a truly special magic. The atmosphere here is incredibly romantic. The time spent in the pool, in our lovely Pool Pavilion, and on this unique beach – should never end. Witnessing the stunning natural beauty and observing the adorable monkeys – is just unique. Add to that the delicious food at the wonderful restaurants right by the sea – magnificent. There is so much to discover and experience here. We thoroughly enjoyed it once again!

Rooms: 94 Pavilions & 7 Luxurious Villas
Temperature: Air 25 – 35°Celsius, Nights 20 – 25° Celsius
Water Temperature: 28° Celsius
Best Travel Time: Early December to Mid-April
Price: Starting from 440 EUR per Night in a Deluxe Pavilion
Transfer: 25 minutes from Krabi Airport, 2.5 hours from Phuket Airport
Overall Rating: *****
Highlights: 3 Beaches, Enormous Pool Area with Stunning Rocky Backdrop, Exquisite Cuisine, Exceptional Spa
Perfect for: Couples, Families, Honeymooners, Nature Enthusiasts, Beach Lovers, Rock Climbers

Rayavadee
214 Moo 2, Tambon Ao-Nang, Amphur Muang
Krabi 81000, Thailand
Tel : (66-75) 620 740 – 3
Fax : (66-75) 620 630
E-mail : reservation@rayavadee.com
www.rayavadee.com


Member of “The Leading Hotels of the World”

WINNER OF TRIPADVISOR 2019 HALL OF FAME

WINNER OF CONDE NAST TRAVELER’S ANNUAL READERS CHOICE AWARDS

‘Top 20 Asia Resorts’ 2014-2015‘ and Top 40 World’s Best Beach Resorts’ 2014 -2015
UK Tatler Travel Guide’s ‘101 Best Hotels in The World’ 2014 & 2013

Winner of Trip Advisor ‘Certificate of Excellence’ 2013 & 2014

Winner of Trip Advisor 2012 Traveler’s Choice Awards ‘Top 25 Luxury Thai Hotels’

Nominated for Travel & Leisure’s ‘World’s Best Hotels’ Reader’s Choice Awards, 2012

Conde Nast Traveler’s Annual ‘Gold List – World’s Best Places to Stay in the World’ 2010

Excellence Award for ‘Best Hotel Project in Southeast Asia’ – ASEAN Association

Recipient of ‘The Royal Gold Medal for Environmentally – Conscious Architecture’ – Association of Siamese Architects

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Note: Our stay was sponsored by Rayavadee. Thank you so much! Nevertheless, the opinions expressed in the article are unbiased. 

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The Slate, Phuket, Thailand – Romantic Design Hotel with Industrial Charm

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BLACK GINGER, REBAR & COQOON SPA – SIMPLY SPECTACULAR!

The work of Bill Bensley has fascinated me for a long time. He is one of Southeast Asia’s leading architects, designers and artists, and he has given many hotels (such as the Maia Seychelles) his opulent and creative touch. The historic and stylish luxury resort, The Slate, located amidst a lush tropical forest on Phuket’s beautiful Nai Yang Beach, exudes an unmistakable charm and is a real eye-catcher.

“My biggest inspiration for The Slate was to create a place inspired by the rich history of tin mining on the island. I said to my daughter: It can be modern, but it has to reflect Phuket.” – Inhaber Prakaikaew Na-Ranong

The creative design of this tropical oasis pays homage to the past of tin mining and an expression of Phuket’s avant-garde spirit. Industrial chic blends harmoniously with traditional Thai design, all thanks to Bill Bensley’s keen sense of lighting and integrating structures into their natural surroundings.

The sprawling oasis with 184-rooms features 5 restaurants & bars serving Thai and international cuisine (BLACK GINGER, TIN MINE, RIVET & REBAR, UNDERGROUND & POOLSIDE, TONGKAH TIN SYNDICATE), three outdoor pools (two exclusively for adults), the SHADES GALLERY in the lobby, the HELICONIA FLOWER GALLERY, THE STOCKROOM boutique, the TIN BOX KID’S CLUB, and the spectacular and award-winning COQOON SPA.

“Design without history means missing out on something. We celebrate the history of Phuket. Every corner is a conversation.” – Inhaber Prakaikaew Na-Ranong

POOLS & DREAMSCAPE

The Family-Friendly Lagoon Pool 

The large lagoon pool with countless sun loungers, tropical palm trees, waterfalls and rustic rocks, creates a wonderful natural backdrop. Children can also enjoy various play elements, while the UNDERGROUND CAFÉ & POOLSIDE serves healthy salads, cold-pressed juices, and fresh fruits by the poolside.

“From the design to the concept to the cuisine, our philosophy is to embrace all things local.”

ADULTS-ONLY POOL WITH SWIM-UP BAR

Another pool exclusively for adults offers plenty of space for socializing with its swim-up bar.

ADULTS ONLY INFINITY-POOL

A serene infinity pool, reserved for adults, treats guests to a view of the resort’s well-manicured grounds.

Rooms, Suites & Pool Villas

Every detail has been carefully considered in the rooms (offering six different room categories), Pearl Shell Suites (spacious suites with one or two bedrooms), and private Pool Pavilions. Local handcrafted furniture, artistic faucets and sinks, historical fans from the 1920s, exposed beams, blackened metals, and polished concrete are combined with Thai silk and rattan. Additionally, private pools, Jacuzzis, saunas, and personal massage tables provide an added touch of luxury.

PEARL SHELL SUITE

This 132 square meter elegant designer suite features numerous artworks, extravagant wooden and metal elements, cozy and stylish furniture, a unique bathtub, and two massage tables. The spacious balcony offers a wonderful view of the tropical rainforest.

“This was the rebirth of the first resort in Phuket, formerly Pearl Village. It’s still a work in progress, as resorts have to be. A really good resort goes through major facelifts every five years.” – Bill Bensley

Private Pool Villas

Hidden in the gardens of the rainforest, the Pool Villas offer a particularly romantic retreat with sun loungers, daybeds, a private pool, bar, dining area, whirlpool, spa, sauna, steam room, and a 24-hour butler service (Villas 2006 and 2007 are the most private).

FANCIFUL FOOD, DREAMLIKE DINING

The diverse restaurants & bars at The Slate take guests on a journey into Phuket’s culinary culture.

“ENJOY GOURMET DISHES IN SPECTACULAR SURROUNDINGS AND CULINARY MASTERPIECES THAT NURTURE AND INSPIRE.”

Breakfast at Tin Mine

The TIN MINE restaurant serves international delicacies, Thai specialties, and a sumptuous breakfast buffet with street-food cooking stations, all within a tasteful and industrial ambiance.

Cocktails at Rebar

Above the RIVET restaurant, you will find the REBAR. Here, DJs play chill tunes while stainless steel tables rest on a floor made of old railway sleepers. In addition, snacks like seafood tapas, Black Angus filet, and wines from the New World, along with unique cocktails, are served.

We were lucky to experience the talented singer, Bonnie, live. What a night!

In another bar – the sports bar TONGKAH TIN SYNDICATE – rare whiskeys and perfectly crafted cocktails are served.

Romantic Dinner at Black Ginger 

In the magical BLACK GINGER restaurant, surrounded by a lotus pond and reachable only by candle-lit raft, Thai cuisine is served in a traditional mansion with pointed roofs, creating an incredibly romantic atmosphere, especially in the evening. It is a modern masterpiece of Thai art, certified by the Michelin Guide in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022. The luxurious restaurant and the azure-lit bar are highly popular, and the gourmet and avant-garde dishes are so delicious that reservations are highly recommended.

“True Tastes of Phuket”

Cross the water for an unforgettable experience of Oriental spices …

Exquisite flavours that are delicately balanced …

Prepared with freshest local ingredients …

Carefully selected by our chef …

Served with Black Ginger´s unique twist …

Local Thai cuisine that will enchant …

BLACK GINGER MENU >>

COQOON SPA

For a spectacular experience, indulge in a spa treatment in “The Nest” – a private treatment room with an impressive woven structure. These unique treatment rooms hang like bird’s nests in the branches of a centuries-old banyan tree.

And it is not just the natural atmosphere that is impressive; the massages are incredibly relaxing and top-notch!

KRU PRECISION Wellness is an independent regenerative retreat at The Slate, offering a unique range of health concepts, such as the KRU diagnosis program with a comprehensive check-up and screening session, as well as the KRU Signature VitaDrip, a weight loss and liver detox program.

THE STOCKROOM

Thanks to the hotel’s stylish in-house boutique, guests can take home designer pieces from the rooms, porcelain from the restaurants, skincare products, and much more.

BEACH

A vast beach is within easy reach of the resort. Here, you will find seafood restaurants, cafes, and in the high season, market stalls and massage salons.

CONCLUSION

The Slate is the perfect place to unwind after a long flight or relax before your departure while indulging in delicious cuisine. It is a delightful tropical and romantic oasis amidst the bustling atmosphere. We were particularly enchanted by the incredibly magical Black Ginger restaurant and the cool Rebar, with its industrial lounge style and live music. The Slate is not just a resort; it has a fascinating story to tell and offers endless opportunities for exploration. Everywhere you turn, you will find creative and spectacular designs, as well as many opportunities to cool off in the hot weather. Our visit here was incredibly exciting and captivating. This tropical and stylish paradise is truly worth a visit!

Transfer: 5-minute drive from Phuket airport
Rooms: 211, including seven private pool villas
Temperature: 30 – 35 degrees Celsius during the day, 20 – 26 degrees Celsius at night
Best Time to Visit: October – March
Price: starting from 185 EUR per night including breakfast
Overall rating: *****
Activities: Thai cooking classes, Chef’s Table, Private Dining, Kru Precision Wellness Diagnostic Program, Spa treatments, Yoga, Pilates, Ondigo Fitness Studio, Muay Thai classes, language courses, day trips to weekend markets, scuba diving and kite surfing center next to the hotel.
Specials: BILL BENSLEY ART WEEKEND, GASTRONOMIC ADVENTURE, REVIVE PACKAGE, COQOON PAMPERING, SUNDAY BRUNCH (view >>)
Perfect for: Couples, friends, families, design enthusiasts, and romantic souls.

THE SLATE
NAI YANG BEACH 116 MOO 1, SAKHU, THALANG
PHUKET 83110, THAILAND

E: RESERVATIONS@THESLATEPHUKET.COM
T: +6676 327 006
RESERVATIONS: +6676 327 383

www.theslatephuket.com

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Our stay was sponsored by The Slate. Thank you very much! Nevertheless, the opinions expressed in this article are unbiased.

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Aleenta Phuket Resort & Spa, Thailand – Wellness & Indulgence on the Pristine Natai Beach

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Luxurious Pool Villas amidst Tropical Gardens

The 5-star boutique luxury resort, Aleenta Resort and Spa is located just 25 minutes north of Phuket International Airport in the Phang Nga province, close to the famous Phang Nga Bay. Here, on the sunset side of the Andaman Sea, you can relax, participate in tailor-made wellness programs, and enjoy diverse wellness cuisine. With the “All Suites, All Private” offer, which resonates with Aleenta’s Outside Living In philosophy, you will find abundant privacy amid beautiful natural surroundings. 

With a holistic approach to wellness and a variety of wellness retreats, this secluded beach resort promotes balance and well-being in a natural environment.

The large infinity pool offers wonderful ocean views and is located next to The Edge restaurant.

Suites & Villas

The diverse room categories range from 80 m² lofts and pool suites with ocean views to impressive beachfront pool villas with up to four bedrooms.

Grand Deluxe Pool Villa

In this 141 m² pool villa, equipped with a day bed, light-flooded bathroom, and walk-in closet, you can jump directly into the pool from your bedroom. Embracing Aleenta’s ‘Outdoor Living – In’ concept, the floor-to-ceiling windows offer a magnificent view of nature in complete privacy.

And via iPad or app, you can have snacks and drinks delivered directly to the pool in a very modern way.

Floating Breakfast

With the Floating Breakfast, you can enjoy a peaceful breakfast in your private villa.

The Edge Restaurant

“Award Winning Journey of Thai cuisine”

At this beachfront restaurant, you can enjoy delicious drinks and exquisite dishes throughout the day, featuring various healing herbs and exotic spices, all while overlooking the sea. 

The breakfast selection is extremely diverse, offering healthy wellness dishes, Thai cuisine, and international egg dishes.

Breakfast Menu

Private Dining

The beach is the perfect setting for a private and romantic sunset dinner.

Friends and families can enjoy a barbecue evening while watching the sunset on the beach.

Dinner

In a stylish atmosphere, The Edge prepares Asian-inspired, contemporary, and healthy dishes using seasonal ingredients. The fresh ingredients are mostly sourced from local farmers and fishermen, grown organically and pesticide free.

SEASONS Restaurant

“The Art of Plant-Based Cuisine”

The plant-based cuisine at the Seasons offers innovative dishes based on classic recipes from around the world, Thai cuisine, and traditional Southern Thai cuisine. There are two 6-course tasting menus available (East and West), which change according to the seasons in Thailand and the availability of fresh produce, offering a variety of colours, flavours, and textures.

“SEASONS”, THAILAND’S FIRST EVER PLANT-BASED, FINE DINING FUSION BISTRO

On this culinary taste journey, all the dishes are perfectly paired with wine and alcohol-free speciality drinks. Not only are they delicious, but also creatively and artistically presented. We were impressed by all the dishes. It is incredible how delicious seaweed can be!

Jackfruit Taco: Jack-fruit pulled-pork style, in a crispy corn tortilla with tomato salsa, vegan source cream and smokey guacamole.

Ayurah Spa & Wellness Centre

Ayurah Spa promotes wellness for body, mind, and soul with rejuvenating spa treatments, spa therapies and wellness retreats.

Ayurah Signature Retreats >>

The yoga sessions are not to be missed. We met the wonderful Sanya and were able to learn so much from her during our morning yoga sessions on the beach. 

Specials

Romantic Getaway
Starting from Thai Baht 38.700 (approximately 1.040 EUR) net per double room

  • Three-night luxury accommodation
  • One-time romantic pre-dinner drinks
  • Romantic in-room set up with rose bouquet and a bottle of sparkling wine upon arrival.
  • Daily gourmet breakfast at The Edge restaurant, or enjoy one-time breakfast served privately to your room or the floating breakfast.
  • One-hour Spa treatment per person per day
  • One-time romantic dinner for two on the beach
  • Round-trip airport transfer

This chic beach resort is perfect not only for a romantic getaway or honeymoon but also for beach weddings.

Wedding Brochure >>

Activities

Whether it is a visit to the night market, the famous Phang Nga Bay, the sea turtle conservation centre, or a temple right on the beach, Aleenta is an ideal starting point for various excursions.

Conclusion

The Aleenta Phuket is a wonderful retreat where you can relax and indulge. The entire ambiance, the beautiful natural surroundings, the villas with loads of privacy, the healthy cuisine, the spa, and especially the sea provide the perfect setting for rejuvenation. We felt amazingly comfortable here and thoroughly enjoyed our time.

Transfer: 25-minute drive from Phuket Airport
Rooms: 67 rooms, suites & villas
Air Temperature: 30 – 35 degrees Celsius, 20 – 26 degrees Celsius at night
Best Time to Visit: October – March
Price: Starting from 265 EUR/night including breakfast
Specials: Romantic Getaway, All-Inclusive-Packages and much more. (Specials >>)
Overall Rating: *****
Highlights: Beautiful and private villas, healthy wellness cuisine, wonderful spa with various wellness programs, and yoga sessions on the beach.
Perfect for: Couples, honeymooners, weddings, friends, and families

Aleenta Resort & Spa in Phuket-Phang Nga
33 Muh 5, Khok Kloi,
Takua Thung, Phang Nga
82140 Thailand
T: +66 (0) 76 580 333
E: reservation@akaryn.com
www.aleenta.com

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Please note: Our stay was sponsored by Aleenta Phuket. Thank you very much! Nevertheless, our opinions expressed in this article are unbiased.

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Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Thailand – Jungle Adventures & Elephants

animal welfare, Asia, Asien, Chiang Rai, social commitment, Spa, Thailand, Videos 0 Comments

Wild Luxury & magical experiences in northern Thailand

To hear the happy trumpeting of the elephants in the morning and experience these gentle giants up close, these are the memories burned into our hearts forever. The picturesque setting and the unforgettable view over the border triangle merely isfantastic! Northern Thailand with its warm-hearted people, its culture and the elephants is a once in a lifetime experience.

The luxurious Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is situated in the middle of the jungle in northern Thailand at the heart of the Golden Triangle. You have awe-inspiringviews overlooking the Mekong River and the border with Myanmar and Laos. The resort offers unique elephant encounters, superb Thai food, loving service, a beautiful spa and a host of options for exploring the area.

LIFE IS A JOURNEY.

Of course, the highlight is the private award-winning elephant camp with 30 rescued Asian elephants.

“We believe that in an ideal world, all elephants would be wild and it would not be necessary to talk about working with elephants at all.” – Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation

There are many different ways you can bond with these gentle giants. There are jungle walks, watching them bathing in the river, getting acquainted with the art of the mahouts (elephant keepers) or spend some time in the elephant camp feeding the elephants.

John Roberts together with Anantara founded the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation (GTAEF) with its scientific research program in 2003. Ithas enabled the mahouts and their elephants to live a dignified life again. Traditionally,many elephants in Thailand lived in captivity as working animals and were usually not treated well and even abused.

“Happy mahouts keep happy elephants.”

The elephants are mainly rescuedfrom the street or illegal logging camps. Injured animals are cared for and nursed back to health. Not only the elephants are taken care of, butthe mahouts with their families can also live in the camp. About 60 people now live in the Mahout Village and benefit from this project. They are encouraged to treat the elephants well and send their children to school. If at all possible, the goal remains to release the elephants.

Elephant sponsorship

Noble retreat in Lanna design in the border triangle

Dark teak floors, elegant furniture, silk, local art, andcarvings create a cozy, charming atmosphere and paytribute to the ancient Lanna Kingdom (Land of a Million Rice Fields) in northern Thailand.

Upon arrival, you are spoiledwith a small welcome massage and handmade bracelets.

In addition to the all-inclusive package (3 meals a day, unlimited drinks, minibar, internet andairport transfers), The Discovery Package also offers an elephant, wellness, cooking or cultural activity every day.

Infinity pool overlooking the jungle

The beautiful infinity pool with hot tub offers uninterrupted views of the Mekong River and the 65-acre jungle.

During the day you can order delicious dishes and fresh drinks at the pool while enjoying the beautiful view.

Three Country View Room

The Anantara Golden Triangle combines Thai architecture and décor of international standard in a refined colonial style. The 55 rooms and suites are decoratedin warm colors with Thai textiles, dark teak furniture, oversized terrazzo bathtubs and works of art from China and Thailand.

The highlight is the view from the balcony sofa over Thailand, Myanmar and Laos.

You will find elephants everywhere in the room, even the elephant shaped biscuits!

The atmosphere is incredibly romantic, especially in the evening!

Three Country View (Family) Suites

The family suites are, of course, a bit bigger and super comfortable.

Walking with Giants

To be so close to these majestic mammals is an unforgettable experience. By feeding them bananas and sugar cane, you first familiarize yourself with them and get to know them.

With “Walking with Giants” you can join the mahouts and their elephants on their daily walk in the jungle. Since they are fedat the camp, they need to go for daily walks. Otherwise,they pick up weight.

Although many of them, probably have experienced mistreatment, they are loving and gentle. Amazing!

The walk through the jungle is at a leisurely pace. Whenever the elephants feel like it, they nibble on the branches, and there are snacks like bananas and sunflower seeds in between.

Elephants like to be touched, especially behind their ears.

When they get to the river, they are like little kids, splashing about and they do not want to get out of the water!

At the end of the walk, the elephants are showered,andthe mahouts bring them back to the camp. The tour lasts about one and a half hours.

Mahout Experience

The Mahout experience is inspiring. You discover the strong bond between the elephants and their keepers and get a glimpse into the everyday life of a mahout. It includes an introduction to the Thai commands to enable you to guide these intelligent and gentle beings yourself.

Riding on elephants is controversial. Responsible riding on the neck of these gigantic 3-ton mammals can be comparedto an ant sitting on them. However, several people riding on the back of an elephant should be avoided.

When you visit the elephants for the second time, they are already much more familiar with you. One of them will stroll towards you, and it is as if they are saying: “Hi, here you are again!” Brilliant!

This tour takes you a little further through the jungle and even through the resort.

At the Mahout Village, you can buy some beautiful, home-made objects and support the mahout families directly. The women have even started a small silk production.

We found the tours amazingand exciting. Spending time with the mahouts and these gentle giants is a unique experience!

Restaurants & Bar

The main restaurant, the Elephant Bar and the Opium Terrace, offers a stunning panoramic view. The service in every restaurant is very attentive and loving!

Sala Mae Nam

For breakfast, there is an international and Thai buffet with a vast selection.

The view from the terrace isimpressive. During the dry season, you can even watch the elephants from here.

For lunch and dinner, Sale Mae Nam offers delicious Thai delicacies. Highly recommended are the northern Thai dishes; they are simple, but creative with exotic spices and fresh ingredients from the garden.

The black rice and curries are a realtaste sensation.

“Geang Yod Mapraw Gai Bai Cha Plu
Northern style chicken curry with young coconut tip and wild betel leaves”

Opium Terrace

The Opium Terrace is situated next to the Elephant Bar and serves simple dishes and fantastic cocktails.

In the evening, it has a very romantic atmosphere, and you can also order food from any of the other restaurants and enjoy it here. 

Elephant Bar

The Elephant Bar has a historic atmosphere reminiscent of a hunting lodge. Aperitifs are served by the open fireplace or on the private terrace.

Baan Dhalia

The romantic Baan Dhalia Restaurant offers Italian cuisine and has an impressive wine list. Merging the rustic Thai jungle with Tuscan ambiance, it has a unique romantic ambience!

“Parmesan spaghetti, prepared tableside in a whole Grand Padano wheel and your choice of pasta sauce – black truffle cream or pesto trapanese with Parma ham”

If you would like something truly spectacular, try the spaghetti with truffles from the Parmesan wheel or order the Crêpes Suzette.

Dining by Design

If you are looking for peace and privacy, there is “Dining by Design.” You can dine in the beautiful, quiet landscape and if you would like to, even enjoy the company of elephants.

Spa by Nature

The Chiang Rai Spa has five stunning teak suites with their own steam room and outdoor baths overlooking the Mekong Valley.

The treatments are based on century-old northern Thai wellness traditions and include local and medicinal ingredients. You can choose between Elemis spa and aromatherapy treatments, massages, facials, body wraps and scrubs, and the unique Lanna Experience.

The ambience and the massages are wonderfully relaxing!

Saying “I do” in the jungle

The Anantara Golden Triangle with its romantic ambience is the perfect setting to get married at and host your reception or renew your wedding vows. The possibilities are endless.  

Thai Traditional Wedding from 2900 EUR (Wedding Brochure)
Venue setup:
• Thai wedding ceremony set up with flower decoration
• Monks ceremony or other religious ceremony
• 1 Pair of wedding garland ceremony for bride and groom
• 1 Bouquet for bride
• 1 Groom’s corsage
• Flower petals in a paper cone

The package includes:
• 2 Complimentary nights in a Suite
• Daily breakfast for the bride and groom
• 1 bottle of sparkling wine
• 1 private dining by design candle-lit dinner for the bride   and groom
• Live Thai Lanna classical music welcome during the ceremony
• Wedding cake at the ceremony
• Roundtrip Airport transfers 

Honeymoon-Special
•   Romantic room setup with flower decoration
•   1 bottle of sparkling wine
•   Romantic Khom Loi Lantern ceremony

Sustainability & Social Engagement

The resort supports local staff, conservation projects, and the Elephant Camp. It uses solar panels for hot water and is devoted to recycling. Tree plantations are also financed.

Activities

There is so much to do here. You can visit Chiang Rai and the neighboring countries of Myanmar and Laos with a longtail boat, do yoga classes, ride a mountain bike, plant trees, go trekking, visit the Opium Museum or participate in a cooking class.

Spice Spoons
With the cooking class “Spice Spoons” you get great insight into Thai cuisine. After a tour of the bustling local market, you learn what makes Thai food so delicious. We participated in the course in Anantara Chiang Mai, and it was really great and incredibly tasty.

Opium Museum
In the Opium Museum, you can learn a lot about the history of the opium trade in northern Thailand and the origins of opium. It should be fascinating. Unfortunately, we did not visit the museum.

Wat Rong Khun
Wat Rong Khun, better known as the White Temple, is located between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. It is an incredibly spectacular temple.

Loy Krathong
The traditional Thai festival, also known as the Festival of Lights, takes place annually on the evening of the full moon (11-13 November 2019) in Chiang Mai. It should also be beautiful near Chiang Saen. Further information >>

Conclusion

The Anantara Golden Triangle is extraordinary! And no, it is not just the fantastic views and the adorable elephants, but the extraordinarily loving and caring employees. The people here in the north are very kind and attentive. They ensure that your stay here is exceptional. The elephant encounters as so up close and personal and a definite bucket list item! We made memories that we will treasure forever – wonderful and unforgettable! When we said goodbye, we received a lantern with farewell wishes from the staff. Hopefully, our wish will come true!

Room: 40 rooms and 15 suites (including 6 family suites)
Flight duration: 11 hours from Germany to Bangkok and 1 hour to Chiang Rai
Transfer: 69 km from the airport, about 1 hour by car
Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Diphtheria, Tetanus; Recommended: malaria standby; make sure to use mosquito repellent!
Air Temperature: 12 – 35 degrees Celsius
Time Zone: CET +6 hours
Best Travel Time: January to April and November to December; the warmest months are March to May; February is the driest month; July and August have the most rain; it can be cold between November and February.
Price: Double room from 933 EUR per night including breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages. Mini bar, roundtrip transfers from Chiang Rai Airport, Opium Museum entrance ticket and a choice of daily activities (spa, cooking class, excursion or elephant camp). THB 2000 of the booking fee go to the Elephant Foundation
Special Offer: From 3 nights, 20% discount
Activities: Yoga, trekking, excursions, cooking class, walking with elephants and many more
Highlights:Beautiful location in breathtaking nature, extraordinary elephant encounters, great “Discovery Package”, delicious food, super friendly staff, great spa, beautiful rooms with stunning views
Perfect for: Nature lovers, romantics, animal lovers, couples, families, honeymooners


Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort
229 Moo 1, Chiang Saen
Chiang Rai 57150, Thailand
00 66 53 784 084
goldentriangle.anantara.com

TOP 10 POOLS OF THE WORLD – CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER 2018
CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER’S 2017 READERS’ CHOICE AWARD
“TOP RESORTS IN ASIA” #29 Top Resorts in Asia- CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER 2016
50 LP RECOMMENDATIONS 2016 BY LONELY PLANET TRAVELLER THAILAND
“Hotel With The Best Travel Experiences”
WINE SPECTATOR AWARD OF EXCELLENCE 2016 – Baan Dhalia Restaurant
GREEN GROWTH 2050 – CERTIFICATE GOLD
ELEPHANT CAMPING STANDARD (Non Elephant Performance)
“Excellent Level” 2015-2018 by Department of Tourism Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Thailand

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Note: Anantara Golden Triangle Resort financially supported our stay. Thank you so much! Nevertheless, the opinions expressed in this article are 100% our own!  

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