Hotel Review: Tatler Checks Into… Rosewood Phuket

This seaside property brings a new dimension to the resort experience at Phuket

With its bustling nightlife at the Patong area, Phuket may be more commonly associated as a party central. But for those in search of a serene beach getaway at Thailand’s largest island, Rosewood Phuket might just make you see the destination anew.

Situated at the island’s southern tip at Emerald Bay, the verdant property overlooks the Andaman sea, with its 71 villas and pavilions generously spread out across its sprawling 43.5 acre grounds. It’s close enough to Patong beach such that a visit to the main thoroughfare is still easily within reach while being sufficiently self-enclosed and private for those who prefer to stay within its compound.

Above A bridge links the sheltered hallway to the entrance of a pavilion

1. First Impressions

Given the notorious traffic at rush hour, the drive from the airport towards Emerald Bay was far from the calmest of journeys; we had also visited Phuket in January, in the midst of its peak season. But the green and tranquil environment at Rosewood Phuket makes the sojourn worth the wait. Upon stepping onto the property you'll be greeted by a set of grand doors that lead to the sea-facing reception area. From the lobby, board a buggy that takes you around the hilly terrain to your pavilion. En route, property’s abundance of greenery stand out—lush foliage and vines line the sheltered hallways that lead to the pavilions, growing over and around the property and on the roofs.

The villas and pavilions of Rosewood Phuket have been built to accommodate the existing plant life where possible, to make the property truly feel at one with nature. Rainwater-retention ponds not only serve as a calming sight; these are also the primary source of the resort’s water supply.

Above The living area of a pavilion at Rosewood Phuket

2. Do Not Disturb

Each accommodation features a private entrance—a bridge connects the sheltered common hallway to your doorstep. Clad in a palette of light and neutral tones, the residential-inspired design of the pavilion makes it at once cosy and impeccably well-put together.

A thoughtful mix of art objects, design tomes, and accessories decorate the wall shelves and counter areas, with subtle cues to local craft and materials, while adding to the homely feel of the space. A screen and carpeting delineates the living and bed areas within the open-concept pavilion, while the TV can be easily swivelled to your favourite viewing angle, be it on the bed or by the sofa. The spacious ensuite bathroom includes a private courtyard and a freestanding bathtub that drinks in the light, as well as a vanity bench area and an open wardrobe, turning this into a space where you’ll love to linger.

A bench area next to the bed is one of our favourite spots within the pavilion. The sliding floor-to-ceiling glass door offers instant access to the private pool, blurring the boundaries between the indoors and outdoors. The pool and terrace area looks out to the Andaman sea; each of the pavilions and villas enjoys a similarly serene view as all accommodation have been built along the coastline. Altogether, the pavilion almost felt like a stay at a friend’s stylish beach home, with concierge services just a quick call away.

Above The beachside pool area of Rosewood Phuket

3. The Extras

Located right by the beach, the free-form pool area is a favoured spot for sunbathing within the property. Lined with tropical landscaping and sea-facing sundecks, it features a lap pool, as well as wading areas for children. For families travelling to this property, Rosewood Explorers also provides plenty of ways to keep the little ones entertained. This children’s club is equipped with a marine-themed outdoor playground that features a pirate ship and indoor facilities that include a tree-like climbing structure, as well as art and craft activity booths.

Above Ta Khai, a Thai-style seafood restaurant at Rosewood Phuket

4. Food & Drink

While the Italian-style restaurant Red Sauce is the go-to spot for breakfast and brunch, don’t miss out on dinner at hilltop restaurant Ta Khai. Dine on a delectable Thai-style spread while enjoying the ocean breeze amidst its rustic-style ambience; an air-conditioned pavilion also provides cool respite on warm days. Choose from the day’s freshest catch at the viewing pond. You'll also find an array of seafood dishes and other traditionally Thai-style staples on its menu.

Another top pick is The Shack, which is just steps away from the pool. Think moreish Thai and western-influenced bar bites comprising fried calamari, vegetable rolls, and Angus beef sliders, along with sashimi, ceviche as well as grilled or baked seafood platters.

Above Asaya, the wellness centre of Rosewood Phuket

5. Tatler Tip

Seek inner peace at Asaya, Rosewood’s holistic wellness concept that comprises alternative therapies, as well as massages, facials, cooking classes, fitness and meditation programmes personalised to suit your needs. The walk from the entrance to the treatment rooms is part of the calming experience—we wandered through Asaya’s meandering herb gardens, and talked through the sources of stress and sleep concerns with a wellness practitioner who offered practical advice, before making our way to the treatment room, where a 60-minute sound therapy of calming chimes of Tibetan-style “singing” bowls help put us in a meditative mood.

(Related: 6 Tatler-Worthy Wellness Treatments In Asia To Spoil Yourself With)

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travel phuket rosewood Resort