Unmasking The Pavilions, Phuket as a hidden slice of paradise
Nestled among the constellation of luxury hotels on Phuket’s West Coast, The Pavilions Phuket is a discrete gem that may have eluded your radar. It’s not because of any shortcomings in quality but rather a conscious choice to maintain its serene slice of paradise. Let’s unveil the secrets that set The Pavilions Phuket apart.
As I approached The Pavilions Phuket, I had my doubts. The discreetly tucked gate, overgrown with foliage, gave little away. A security guard arrived, and when I mentioned my destination, he wordlessly gestured me forward. The gate slowly revealed a lush, winding path before me, flanked by bamboo and native plants pointing me in the right direction. Along the way, statues adorned with moss added a touch of elegance and mystery to the drive.
Reaching the hill’s summit, I found the lobby, with its panoramic view of the Laguna area and the west coast waves of the Andaman Sea.
West Coast attractions
Strategically located on Phuket’s West Coast, The Pavilions Phuket offers easy access to the area’s attractions. A quick 5-minute drive takes you to the renowned Bang Tao Beach, famed for having the longest stretch of sandy shoreline on the island. For those seeking a vibrant nightlife scene or a shopping spree, the nearby Porto de Phuket and Boat Avenue await, featuring a diverse array of dining, entertainment, and retail options, a vibrant hub for expats, locals, and tourists. The region is dotted with beach clubs too, and I recommend exploring Catch and Xana for a high-class beach bar experience. The Pavilions Phuket provides convenient shuttles for morning beach strolls, and if adventure beckons, the resort is more than accommodating. However, once you’ve immersed yourself in the tranquillity of The Pavilions Phuket’s idyllic haven, you may find it challenging to leave.
Let’s talk dining, a highlight of any stay at The Pavilions Phuket. You’ll never have to worry about going hungry or getting bored with two fantastic restaurants and a panoramic sunset bar to choose from.
Dining Al Fresco: Firefly’s Evening Transformation
First up is Firefly, a charming bistro-style eatery nestled amidst tropical gardens, overlooking a serene 60-metre freeform pool. This daytime sanctuary transforms into a nighttime oasis, lit up like fireflies in the dark; providing the set for their Dive-in Movie Nights.
The open show kitchen is a captivating sight where chefs skillfully prepare modern Mediterranean BBQ, and authentic Thai cuisine. It’s one of the few places where taking a chance on Western food is worth it. On my visit, after painstaking deliberation, I opted for their slow-cooked ribs, the crispy seabass was a close second but, I was delighted with my choice. The mixology team here is equally skilled, serving up classic and contemporary cocktails. I couldn’t resist trying The Pavilion’s signature cocktail, a Thai-infused G&T aptly named after the resort itself.
Sunset Serenity: The 360 Bar Experience
Speaking of drinks, their 360 Bar deserves special mention, especially during the 7:30 – 8:30 pm sunset happy hour. To reach this hilltop vantage point, simply request a buggy from the concierge and savour an evening sundowner with breathtaking views. It’s an experience best enjoyed with light conversation about nothing and everything, all at once.
Elevated Elegance: Alto, The Italian Dining Haven
Now, let’s shift our focus to Alto, an Italian restaurant boasting a prominent cocktail bar and a picturesque sunset viewing platform. Here, you’ll embark on an authentic Italian dining journey, where the flavours of Italy come to life. It’s essential to note that this isn’t the original Alto; you’d have to book a flight to Rome for that privilege. The menu boasts a vast selection of antipasti, main courses, and authentic pasta options that will leave your taste buds in awe. As for recommendations, I’ll let you choose your favourite—it’s a tough decision. Sundays, however, bring a delightful surprise as pasta lovers can indulge at half price.
Of course, no Italian meal is complete without a beverage, or two, or three. Their wine list is comprehensive, featuring Italian reds, whites, and rosés available by the bottle or glass. Fridays are especially enticing with a 20% discount on wines. For those who prefer cocktails over a drink from Dionysus’ chalice, their Negronis and Spritzes are among the best you’ll find on the island.
An Ancient healing oasis that takes you back in time
Between all the fine dining, within the tranquil embrace of The Pavilions Phuket lies a hidden oasis, their luxurious spa. Nestled amidst the resort’s serene surroundings, including a peaceful lake and a 30-meter swimming pool, the spa offers a haven of relaxation, rejuvenation, and pure comfort.
Blending ancient Thai healing traditions with modern Western spa practices, The Pavilions’ spa ensures that every guest experiences the ultimate in rest and relaxation. They pay meticulous attention to detail, providing exclusive Moringa-based oils and products known for their powerful healing properties. Moringa, an ancient medicinal tree, has been revered in both Ancient Egypt and Indian Ayurvedic medicine for centuries.
For those fortunate enough to stay in The Pavilion’s Penthouses, the spa’s indulgent treatments and premium products can be enjoyed within the privacy of your villa, adding an extra layer of luxury to your stay.
Unveiling The Pavilions’ Exquisite Accommodations
But let’s remember that The Pavilions Phuket is more than just a place to dine or relax; it’s a temporary home where you can immerse yourself in quiet paradise. The resort offers an array of villas and suites to accommodate your preferences.
Choose between a Tropical View Suite or a Garden Suite, both offering 81 square meters of modern luxury living space. The Tropical View Suite provides views of lush tropical greenery and comes equipped with all the modern amenities you’d expect. Meanwhile, the Garden Suite offers the same amenities and the added delight of a private green space for relaxation. These Suites are a haven for yogis, meditation enthusiasts, and those who appreciate tranquillity.
Private Pools and Panoramic Views: The Allure of The Pavilions’ Villas
For those seeking a more upscale experience, The Pavilions Phuket offers a wide range of villa options, from two-bedroom pool villas to five-bedroom pool villas, a spa-and-pool villa, Ocean View pool villas, Tropical view pool villas, and even a spa and pool 2-storey Duplex Penthouse Villa – truly impressive.
My personal favourite was the Ocean View Villa, boasting unparalleled qualities that go beyond monetary value. Picture an infinity pool overlooking the panoramic beauty of Layan Beach and the Andaman Sea. These villas seamlessly blend Asian architecture with modern European interior touches, creating a captivating ambiance.
During your stay, consider booking a BBQ to be cooked in your private villa and take full advantage of the Sala for alfresco dining. For a lazy yet indulgent breakfast, try their floating breakfast, a unique experience you can enjoy right from your private pool.
Furthermore, you can indulge in spa treatments in the comfort of your villa, ensuring a fully pampered experience. At The Pavilions Phuket, you’ll discover the epitome of serene luxury.
By Roger Osbourne
