Hide And Seek Hedonism

Vanish for a few days at Trisara, a haven nestled in balmy gardens overlooking beckoning water.

- Stephanie Shiu

Even in well-loved tourist spots, seclusion is within grasp, and you needn’t venture far to find it. Trisara sits hillside, cloaked by lush forest, with enviable views of the Andaman Sea, yet lies 15 mere minutes from Phuket International Airport. Tucked within the picturesque cove shaded by palms, the resort’s appeal lies in subtle lavishness without the overwhelm, thanks to its boutique nature.

Each pool villa overlooks garden or ocean creating your own self-contained piece of paradise. Concealed by tropical foliage, teak and sunning decks become your backdrop whether breakfasting or sun worshipping, while traditional Thai interiors boast high ceilings and generous bathrooms with showers indoors and out. The luxury nooks were built to prioritise privacy, and are roomy enough – particularly if you’re escaping a spaced-starved city – to feel like a residence in its own right.

Sumptuousness has been part of the Trisara identity since its inception, but since then, offerings are increasingly geared towards the wellness-minded traveller. Gone are the days of flopping on a beach with a beer says Anthony Lark, managing director and general manager, who has seen thriving demand for active options. From Muay Thai to private tennis lessons and every water sport imaginable, resort pastimes reflect this new mindset. As an independent property, there are fewer layers of approval to work through, which is conducive to creative activities, which can then be more readily incorporated.

MOVING ON UP

An example of revamped fitness is Trisara’s version of beach bootcamp. I was asked to take off my trainers, and ushered towards the jetty instead, where a speedboat whisked me away to a nearby private beach. What could be more exclusive, and scenic, than a shoreline all to yourself, accessible for only a few hours a day during low tide?