Pimalai Resort & Spa, Thailand

Here, in one of Thailand's least disturbed natural environments, lush tropical rain forest slopes down to a pristine, white-sand beach, providing the setting for 121 lavishly appointed rooms, suites and beach villas, all with large balconies enjoying views of the beach, bay and surrounding rainforest.

The outdoor main restaurant, the Baan Pimalai, serves buffet-style breakfast daily, whilst lunch and dinner 'a la carte' menus offer both Thai and Western dishes. The air-conditioned Spice 'N Rice serves classic Thai food while the Rak Talay, located on the beach with sweeping views of the Andaman Sea, offers salads, pasta, pizzas, sandwiches and, in the evenings, locally caught seafood prepared to your own specification. The Lobby Bar has unrivalled views across the Ba Kan Tiang bay - the perfect place to enjoy a chilled pre-dinner cocktail served alongside one of those chilli hot Thai red sunsets.

Watersports include windsurfing, sailing and canoeing. There is a freshwater, infinity edge swimming pool, with a Jacuzzi, plus a children's pool. The resort has a PADI Diving Centre, operational November to April only. You can learn to cook Thai-style, go on nature walks, work out in the fitness room, go on squid fishing cruises or try elephant trekking but the main focus of Pimalai is its spa. Set in an enchanting valley behind the resort, the sights and sounds of the rainforest add an extra dimension to the full range of massage and beauty treatments on offer.