Luxury resort, 74 pool villas
4/1 Moo 1, Tambol Maenam, Koh Samui
Tel: (66) 0-77-915-999,
www.wretreatkohsamui.com
The first thing that strikes you on arrival at this all-pool-villa resort is how the entry to the lobby creates a perfectly-framed view of the Gulf of Thailand and the nearby island of Koh Phangan. The sense of discovery continues as you wander around the property, which is located on a small promontory at the western end of Bophut beach, about 15 minutes drive from Samui International Airport.
Meeting facilities The Great Room, W’s only dedicated meetings space, can fit between 16 (U-shape) and 80 people (theatre) in its 150m2. The venue is ideally suited for smaller groups and creative meetings with plenty of natural light, sofas and comfy chairs for delegates, as well as the latest audiovisual technology, plasma screens and projectors.
Beyond this, almost every other part of the property’s public spaces can be transformed for events, with the beach remaining a popular choice for groups of up to 80 people.
F&B Buffet breakfast is served (as late as midday on Sundays) at The Kitchen Table, an open-kitchen venue offering a range of international and Asian cuisines in relaxed surroundings with both inside and outside seating. Lunch and dinner are also available here with a la carte options.
Namu is an intimate contemporary Japanese restaurant located on the beachfront, where you can sit at small tables or at the bar to watch the chefs make a range of sushi, sashimi and hand rolls. The menu is broken down into three main categories: Ice, Fire and Action, which denote how they are cooked.
The resort’s beach bar, SIP, serves a range of beers, wines and cocktails, and occasional BBQ food to guests, who can recline at the bar or lounge about on a range of hammocks, day-beds and sofas. WOOBAR is the more upbeat venue which opens late and features a deejay, and perhaps the best views on the property. Guests wanting wholesome juices should try the Tonic Bar, located next to the spa.
Rooms The term “entry level” doesn’t exactly apply to W Retreat Koh Samui, which has eight villa types at the property: Jungle Oasis (163m²), Tropical Oasis (223m²), Ocean View Escape (163m²), WOW Ocean Front Haven (223m²), WOW Jungle Oasis (350m²), WOW Ocean Haven (350m²), the two-bedroom Extreme WOW Ocean Haven (892m²) and the four-bedroom Seaside Escape (2,044m²).
Every villa includes a private pool with outside seating, indoor and outdoor showers and a bath inside. Bedrooms feature state of the art audiovisual equipment, an espresso machine, a fridge stocked with a choice of wine and champagne, and plenty of space just to chill out.
Other facilities Golf buggies are on call 24/7 and these are much needed to get about the resort. Guests can make pit stops at Sweet Spots, refrigerators full of complimentary chilled drinks and ice creams, which are dotted about the place. There’s a fitness suite and infinity pool, as well as a host of beach activities and sports. Those wanting a more indulgent experience can head to AWAY Spa.
Whatever/Whenever, W’s combined room and concierge service, is available around the clock to handle any guest requests.
