Review: Phuket’s tropical sanctuary Trisara

The facts: Set within 34 acres of a protected nature reserve, Trisara – meaning ‘the garden in the third heaven’ – is so serene it makes you wonder what the first two heavens are like. The resort boasts 64 luxurious suites and villas, each with private infinity pools and sea views. There are also expansive residential villas ranging in size from two to nine bedrooms, thought to be the largest of their kind on the island. I stayed in an Ocean Front Pool Villa, complete with its own private deck and infinity pool. The spacious, open-plan bedroom and lounge were beautifully furnished with modern amenities including flatscreen TVs, a mobile phone docking station and high-end bath products. 

An enormous king-sized bed with soft Egyptian cotton sheets and a selection of pillows made me feel like I was in my own personal sanctuary. The soothing colour palette of creams, golds and dark woods created a tranquil, temple-like ambience. Stretching along one side of the villa, the bathroom and dressing room featured two sinks and ample storage for clothes and toiletries. A deep standalone bath beckoned invitingly, as did the spacious indoor rainforest shower and outdoor option. After a long soak and a much-needed double espresso from the Nespresso machine, I called for a buggy to navigate the expansive grounds, which is the only practical way to get around given the property’s size. With numerous facilities at my disposal, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, diverse dining options, a spa complex, tennis courts and even a Muay Thai boxing ring where I learnt the art from seasoned professionals, there was no shortage of activities. The kids’ club keeps younger guests entertained, offering everything from island cruises and cooking classes to watersports from the private stretch of white-sand beach. 

I indulged in a soothing Thai massage at Jara Spa, which worked wonders on the tension from my long-haul flight. 

The resort has its own farm, which guests are invited to visit and where chefs from the restaurants gather fresh produce. Bring insect repellent, as the mosquitoes are quite abundant here. 

Ideal for: With its secluded location and premium amenities, Trisara is perfect for travellers seeking a luxurious, relaxing escape amid stunning tropical scenery. The property caters wonderfully to families, as well as couples craving a romantic hideaway from the hustle and bustle. 

Explore: Trisara offers a variety of activities and excursions, including snorkelling over Koh Waeo’s vibrant coral reef, sailing, kayaking and windsurfing. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck surrounded by breathtaking scenery, while nature lovers can embark on hiking adventures through lush jungles. A visit to Phuket’s historic Old Town – about an hour away by car – is also a must-do. 

Wow: Prepare to be wowed by Pru, the property’s Michelin-starred and Green Star restaurant, which stands for Plant, Raise and Understand. Chef Jimmy Ophorst and his team craft an exquisite six-course tasting menu from the restaurant’s very own theatre kitchen, where the magic is performed right in front of our eyes. 

Led by a farm-to-table philosophy, Pru sources fresh ingredients from the hotel’s own crops, as well as local farms and fishermen, to create innovative, flavourful dishes, each a work of art with peculiar ingredients such as crispy ants and durian. However, all of the resort’s restaurants are exceptional. From authentic Thai curries at Thai Library and farm-to-fork dishes at Jampa to Cielo & Spice’s rich flavours of the Silk Road and French-inspired cuisine at La Crique, you won’t go hungry here.

Book it: Rates start from approximately £902 per night.
Trisara.com