The green season is an inspiring and evocative time to visit Thailand. As the rains refresh the land and nature starts to bloom, the country comes alive with vivid colours, heady fragrances and a sense of freshness that never fails to revitalise the body and revive the spirit.
This feeling of rejuvenation is especially powerful at Pimalai Resort & Spa, the five-star haven of tranquility nestled in 100 acres of lush jungle on the tropical Thai island of Koh Lanta. This ecological paradise blooms with exotic native plants such as banyan trees, coconut palms, jasmine bushes, bird of paradise flowers and even century-old, 80-metre-tall ton yang trees, where colourful birds including hornbills roost. This heavenly hideaway is also a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World’s (SLH) Considerate Collection, an exclusive community of socially responsible and eco-conscious luxury hotels.
Couples, families and multi-generational groups can discover their own private sanctuary with Pimalai’s collection of beachfront and hillside pool villas, which promise plenty of space, up to three bedrooms, private pools and panoramic ocean views. Nature lovers can spend endless hours exploring this organic paradise, or following a choice of hiking trails up to jungle-clad peaks and Klong Chak waterfall, which flows freely during the green season. A professional guide can be arranged. Alternatively, the resort’s 900-metre-long sandy beach and glistening Kantiang Bay are perfect for low-impact water sports, such as paddle-boarding, sailing or kayaking.
This aquatic wonderland also sets the stage for offshore excursions. While some parts of the local marine reserve are closed to visitors at this time of year (to allow the flora and fauna to be replenished), adventurous guests can visit the island of Koh Talabeng, which is famous for its caves, beaches and clear water – ideal for swimming, snorkelling and sea kayaking. Koh Lanta’s mangrove forests are great for wildlife enthusiasts, while the Old Town is a captivating place to soak up the culture, which includes a deep and historic Islamic influence.
