Those walking along the unspoilt coastline of Khao Lak may be surprised by a striking complex of buildings situated on the beach. The just-completed Casa de la Flora hotel comprises 36 contemporary grey cube villas, tiered back from the coastline and set in lush vegetation.
The sophisticated resort offers villas with private pools, gardens, terraces, and arresting sea views. The hotel’s warm and friendly team and 24-hour host service ensures all needs are met around-the clock. There is even an on-site ‘Dream Maker’ who gets to know each guest individually and helps to fulfill all their wishes, from a romantic dinner on the beach to helping guests surprise their partners on a special day. The hotel employs a range of eco-friendly initiatives, including chemicalfree pools, water recycling and use of recycled paper and aluminum furniture. This, combined with the range of facilities, including library, restaurant, shop, bar and spa, makes Casa de la Flora a stand out addition to the Thai hospitality scene. www.designhotels.com/casadelaflora
The Rooms
The resort’s 36 spacious villas come in eight categories and are designed to allow guests to experience the environment from inside out, with large glass facades that widen the perspective when looking out to sea. Created by Bangkok-based VaSLab, the spaces are designed using concrete and natural materials such as teakwood, resulting in stylish spaces ideal for rest and seclusion.
Situated just steps from the beach are 10 Beachfront Villas, each with a private outdoor area with infinity pool, decking area and small garden, and uninterrupted views of the ocean. Those looking for a large space will enjoy the 11 Duplex Grand Pool Villas and eight Duplex Pool Suites, set further back from the shoreline with two floors, all with private pools on the ground floor. Set among lush vegetation are five Studio Pool Villas that offer a secluded retreat with wooden balconies surrounded by greenery. At the back of the property lies the Casa Pool Suite and the Presidential Suite. Both offer stunning ocean views thanks to their elevated position at the top of the property. The Casa Pool Suite has an outdoor pool on the veranda, while the 130-square-meter (1400 square feet)
Presidential Suite, set to open in June, offers a one-of-a-kind experience, with a large outdoor pool with sea views, one large bedroom and contemporary artwork throughout.
The Experience
A chic grey modernist building with a front of cascading water is the stunning point of arrival. A large open lobby area provides an airy and relaxing space for guests to sink into holiday mood and meet their friendly hosts. Among them is the on-site ‘Dream Maker’ who gets to know guests and does everything to make their stay as pleasurable as possible, from simply arranging a cake for a guest’s birthday to organizing an over-the-top romantic experience.
Once in their private villas, guests may never want to leave. As well as having their own private swimming pool and decking area, there is a range of amenities, including an in-room entertainment system from Apple, Wi-Fi Internet access, and an i-Pod docking station. For dining, the La Aranya restaurant, just steps from the beach, lures guests with veritable feasts of Thai and international cuisine. There is also a large infinity pool at the center of the resort with a bar serving smoothies, snacks and tropical cocktails. For some pampering, the spa, with four rooms and wide variety of spa treatments, is certain to leave guests with a holiday glow.
Location and Rates
Casa de La Flora is located directly on the beautiful beach of Khao Lak and close to the Khao Lak National Park. The hotel is a one-hour drive by car from Phuket International Airport. Rates from GBP 228, excluding VAT and including breakfast and minibar with daily refills.
