Secrets Revealed

A stalwart of Thailand’s third largest island’s luxury hotel scene, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui is continuing to set the pace with a number of exciting new developments, Francois Oosthuizen discovers

- Francois Oosthuizen

SINCE OPENING OVER a decade ago, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui with its lush green tropical hillside location has become a favourite of those seeking an exclusive getaway. Life is slow here at this idyllic resort with its stunning views of the Gulf of Siam – but that doesn’t mean that time has stood still.

Featuring 60 pool villas and 11 majestic private residences – all taking a design cue from southern Thai architecture, with thatched roofs and indoor and outdoor spaces inspired by the colours of the ocean – the resort on the northwestern tip of Koh Samui with a private beach has remained true to its island heritage with a gentle nod to the humble coconut. Koh Samui is after all referred to as “coconut island”, and the Four Seasons was built on the site of a former orchard, retaining 856 coconut trees. Among the latest additions is Asia’s first “Rum Vault” at CoCoRum Bar and Restaurant, offering the finest and most comprehensive collection of sugarcane spirits in the region. Set on the edge of a 50-metre-long infinity lap pool, a prison-like door opens into a cosy room with a tasting table as its centrepiece, surrounded by a stellar collection of rums from across the world.