The most beautiful dream hotels in Thailand

Synonymous with pristine white sand, turquoise waters and tropical landscapes, Thailand's incredible beaches are renowned the world over for their beauty. Remember the film The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio? Well, it's no wonder we all want to find that utopian Thai paradise as described in Alex Garland's cult 1990s novel. Thailand is a magnet for backpackers on all budgets, but also for lovers looking for a quiet honeymoon. The destination is home to some of the world's most luxurious seaside resorts and incredible hotels. Romantic to the core, couples will feel in another world in these lost retreats and/or luxury hotels lost in the jungle. Here is a selection of the top 10 best luxury and romantic hotels in Thailand to make you feel out of this world.

© Layana Resort and Spa, Koh Lantai / Booking.com

1. Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood

Hotel Soneva Kiri has opted for a very natural concept. The wooden structures give it a Robinson Crusoe feel. The resort has a policy of sustainability by making biofuels and growing food on site. Rather than building bling, the emphasis is on the simpler things - no one wears shoes, for example, and there's also an excellent spa with an extensive menu of anti-stress treatments.

© Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood / Booking.com

Accessible by a 60-minute flight from Bangkok, Soneva Kiri is located on Thailand's 4th largest but least populated island, Koh Kood, in the Gulf of Siam. Soneva Kiri is not only Thailand's finest hotel, but also one of the world's most exclusive resorts, offering an unrivalled combination of luxury, eco-friendly design and authentic Thai experiences.

© Soneva Kiri, Koh Kood / Booking.com

The 36 resort villas (including 11 private residences) are among the largest in the world. Set on an idyllic beach, all feature stunning infinity pools, incredibly chic furnishings, electric buggies and impeccable service with private butlers. Highlights include the Paradiso open-air cinema, Benz mangrove restaurant, chocolate and ice cream parlour, children's den and the spectacular Treetop catering pod.

Soneva Kiri Thailand

Soneva Kiri

Nestled in the heart of the unspoilt tropical island of Koh Kood, Soneva Kiri offers luxury villas with a private pool and terrace.
From
£897
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2. Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, Khet Thon Buri

Bangkok's only small resort hotel is located on the banks of the Chao Praya River, just outside the city, and offers 396 stylish, contemporary rooms with balconies set around a swimming pool, excellent facilities and a plethora of restaurants.

© Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, Khet Thon Buri / Booking.com

The Anantara Riverside is 27 years old and offers both public areas and rooms with an international feel and some Thai touches. The standard rooms are a little cramped, but are beautifully furnished in soft, warm tones with wooden floors and a few rugs, complemented by spotless marble bathrooms. All rooms have a small balcony overlooking the river and pool.

© Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, Khet Thon Buri / Booking.com

The resort also has a spa and excellent on-site restaurants. You will be along the west bank of the Chao Phraya and can take a shuttle bus to see the city.

Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort Thailand
Booking.com

Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort

The Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort - SHA Plus Certified welcomes you away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, in the heart of beautiful landscaped gardens.
8.9 Superb
From
£173 / night
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3. Layana Resort and Spa, Koh Lanta

The award-winning Layana Resort is set on a beautiful island off the south-west coast of the Andaman Sea. There are 51 luxurious rooms and suites in contemporary Thai style, and a formal restaurant right on the beach. All rooms and suites have a large balcony.

© Layana Resort and Spa, Koh Lantai / Booking.com

The Layana Resort and Spa is a wonderful choice for a honeymoon in Thailand. Reserved for adults, the hotel has been designed for relaxation and privacy. Located on Koh Lanta, an island district in Krabi province, the resort offers a romantic package with breakfast and two candlelit dinners on the beach with wine, massages, a Thai cooking class and a sunset cruise.

© Layana Resort and Spa, Koh Lanta / Booking.com

Luxurious beachfront suites and villas with private balconies offer panoramic views. The on-site Linger Longer Spa has six treatment rooms, a massage area, hydromassage pool, salt spa and sauna. We love the large saltwater infinity pool, the seaside setting, the large gym and the yoga area.

Layana Resort & Spa - Adult Only - SHA Extra Plus Thailand
Booking.com

Layana Resort & Spa - Adult Only - SHA Extra Plus

Surrounded by tropical vegetation and offering stunning sea views, Layana Resort & Spa - Adult Only - SHA Extra Plus is located in Koh Lanta.
9.5 Exceptional
From
£148 / night
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4. Six Senses Yao Noi

This wild and wonderful island retreat with great facilities, gracious staff, sustainability credentials and dazzling views over Phang Nga Bay is one of the most beautiful places to stay in Thailand.

© Six Senses Yao Noi / Booking.com

There is a sense of privacy and adventure throughout the resort. The resort's 55 elevated pool villas offer generous space and a variety of views, from magnificent views over Phang Nga Bay to mountain views across a rubber tree plantation. The natural materials used in the modern architecture, together with excellent personalised service, support the Six Sens philosophy of creating exceptional experiences.

© Six Senses Yao Noi / Booking.com

There are many dining options at Six Senses Yao Noi, with several restaurants and bars, and an international wine cellar. The Living Room features Thai and world cuisine and an open barbecue, while The Hilltop offers Thai dinners and light lunches. There is also an excellent Six Senses spa, and the resort offers many exciting excursions and activities.

Six Senses Yao Noi Thailand

Six Senses Yao Noi

Set in 9.7 hectares of peaceful countryside, Six Senses Yao Noi welcomes you to a serene retreat from the city.
From
£658
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5. Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai

If the words 'camp' and 'luxury' don't seem possible in the same sentence, take a look at this hotel in the Golden Triangle, where Thailand meets Burma and Laos. It's glamping, Thai-style.

© Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai / Booking.com

Perched high in the trees in a jungle setting with stunning views, the luxury open-air tents offer large living spaces, rough-hewn wooden furniture and large terraces with outdoor hot tubs where you can enjoy a relaxing soak. And for even more relaxation, choose a spa treatment on an airy terrace above the trees.

© Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Chiang Rai / Booking.com

Hidden in exotic bamboo jungles, this luxury hotel offers tailor-made experiences close to some of Thailand's oldest civilisations. A stay at the lodge also includes a full list of activities, such as walking with the resort's resident elephants or enjoying the tropical tranquillity with an outdoor massage amongst the treetops.

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle Thailand
Booking.com

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle

Located less than 65 km from Chiang Rai International Airport, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle offers a package including elephant riding, spa treatments, meals and airport shuttle.
9.8 Exceptional
From
£2,700 / night
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6. Banyan Tree Phuket

This is one of Phuket's longest luxury hotels; the most basic room is a private villa with high stone walls and its own swimming pool. It's a safe bet for couples and families looking for a tranquil setting, excellent facilities and easy access to one of the island's best beaches.

© Banyan Tree Phuket / Booking.com

Surrounded by the sparkling waters of a saltwater lagoon, Banyan Tree Phuket is a tropical fairytale where roads are lined with casuarinas and palms, fields are bright with flowers and Bang Tao Bay always sparkles like a sapphire. The luxury hotel offers glorious, elegant architecture complemented by modern facilities.

© Banyan Tree Phuket / Booking.com

The hotel is home to over 30 restaurants and bars (shuttle bus access is available). It is the ideal destination for travellers looking for a luxury retreat, a golfing getaway, a relaxing break or to explore the heritage, culture and superb beaches of this beautiful island.

Banyan Tree Phuket - SHA Extra Plus Thailand
Booking.com

Banyan Tree Phuket - SHA Extra Plus

Situated on the Andaman Sea, Banyan Tree Phuket offers a luxurious tropical getaway with fine, award-winning restaurants and comprehensive spa services.
8.9 Superb
From
£289 / night
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7. Paresa Resort Phuket, Phuket

This romantic retreat clinging to the cliffs above Kamala beach exudes a wonderful sense of calm, between leisurely breakfasts floating in the infinity pool, hours on the balcony overlooking the Andaman Sea, with spa breaks in between.

© Paresa Resort Phuket, Phuket / Booking.com

Here, guests are greeted by the ancient Burmese gong, cold towels and cups of lemongrass tea. The complex sprawls around the hillside below; the architecture features clean lines, creamy stone and high ceilings. Named 'heaven of heavens' in Sanskrit, Paresa lives up to its nickname.

© Paresa Resort Phuket, Phuket / Booking.com

The Paresa Resort is considered a romantic getaway. It is a secluded resort featuring pool suites with stunning sea views. Other top reasons to stay here include the on-site Recipe Cooking Academy, the signature Talung Thai restaurant and the fitness centre overlooking the sea.

Paresa Resort Phuket - SHA Extra Plus Thailand

Paresa Resort Phuket - SHA Extra Plus

Paresa Resort Phuket - SHA Extra Plus is an upscale resort on Kamala Beach, ideally situated on a cliffside on the magnificent Millionaires Mile coastline overlooking the Andaman Sea.
From
£472
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8. Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui

Set on a palm-fringed slope at the north-western tip of Koh Samui, this Four Seasons hotel offers much more than its stunning location. The pool villas that emerge from the foliage are elegant and more than comfortable. The resort also offers a wide range of activities, two restaurants and a private beach.

© Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui / Booking.com

The hotel is an escape from it all and blends perfectly with its natural surroundings. The resort's luxury villas are shaded by coconut palms and overlook the mystical Gulf of Siam and the white sands of the private bay.

© Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui / Booking.com

Guests are invited to enjoy this paradise by practising yoga, enjoying nature-inspired healing rituals at the Secret Garden Spa, relaxing to the sound of the ocean with a massage on the beach, enjoying a good tea or a meal at the Koh Thai Kitchen.

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui Thailand
Booking.com

Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui

Surrounded by tropical gardens, the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui - SHA Extra Plus is located on the north-western tip of the island, in an oasis of calm in Laem Yai Bay.
9.6 Exceptional
From
£866 / night
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9. Le Siam, Bangkok

The Siam is an exquisite and unique heritage-style luxury hotel that seamlessly blends classic Thai influences with Art Deco aesthetics. The communal areas and guest rooms are adorned with antiques and offer a serene, quiet and sumptuous experience.

© Le Siam, Bangkok / Booking.com

The Siam offers plenty of panache. Quiet marble corridors are arranged around a central courtyard with lush greenery and plenty of natural light, while the rooms are beautifully furnished. These include wooden Buddha statues dating back to the 16th century.

© Le Siam, Bangkok / Booking.com

The 28 standard rooms are actually suites with high wooden ceilings, massive beds; decorated with original works of art from the 19th and early 20th centuries. There are a number of unique and fun experiences available here, including a sunset cruise, a cooking class, a Muay Thai boxing class and a day at the spa.

The Siam Thailand

The Siam

Situated on the city side of the Chaopraya River, The Siam offers luxurious yet modern accommodation.
From
£614
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10. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok

The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, nestled on the banks of the Chai Phraya, is known for its brilliance, grandeur, glorious cuisine and quality service.

© Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok / Booking.com

The Oriental Hotel boasts almost 400 rooms and suites, Michelin-starred restaurants and a multi-award-winning spa. The hotel has attracted the world's greatest names, from heads of state to literary legends (Noel Coward, Joseph Conrad, Somerset Maugham) to Hollywood superstars such as Elizabeth Taylor and Marlon Brando.

© Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok / Booking.com

Following a complete refurbishment in 2019, the hotel's rooms are now stunning with teak flooring and elegant décor in ivory, gold and French blue dotted with Thai arts and crafts. All have sumptuous bathrooms with Japanese electronic toilets, large bathtubs and Thai silk kimonos.

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok - SHA Extra Plus Thailand
Booking.com

Mandarin Oriental Bangkok - SHA Extra Plus

The luxurious Mandarin Oriental Bangkok - SHA Extra Plus welcomes you on the banks of the picturesque Chao Phraya River.
9.4 Fabulous
From
£522 / night
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by Faustine PEREZ
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