Opting for villa accommodation makes perfect sense for a family holiday, and there are some truly beautiful properties to choose from, like this one I visited in Koh Samui villa, Thailand.
Located up in the hills in the northwest of Koh Samui, with an unrestricted view over the Gulf of Siam to the limestone peaks of the Ang Thong National Marine Park, Lime Samui is one of the newest and certainly most impressive private villa options on this popular Thai island. There are three separate villas to choose from at Lime; Villa Spice is the newest of the collection, and was recently used as the location for a popular MTV TV show.
Design and Space
We were met on arrival by villa manager Khun Sank and his team, who made us feel very welcome. The design of the villas gives them a real wow factor; they’re little short of amazing. Luxurious indoor and outdoor living areas are complemented by an open plan dining and kitchen area, making it ideal for any large party of guests. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors adorn the living and dining area and can be fully folded back to ensure a constant island view.
The infinity pool area is divine; we spent most of our time hanging out there, often not leaving until after we’d watched the amazing sunset. There is a 20-metre infinity pool and a small shallow children’s pool for the young ones to enjoy. The beautifully manicured lawns that border the villas are wonderful for functions or just watching the sunset, and a seasonal natural waterfall borders one side of the property.
Food and Activities
There is plenty to do here – and eating is a good place to start! The extensive local and international menu (complete with a kids’ menu) is heaven for foodies, with everything made to order from fresh local ingredients; the chef can cook just about anything on request, too. Breakfast is included in the rate and is buffet-style with fresh bakery products, cold cuts, fruit, salad and eggs. We chose a poolside barbecue for our first evening, which was cooked to perfection and washed down with some nice vino from their wine menu. Another night, we tried some amazing local curries.
The layout, space and privacy of the rooms has been carefully thought out; the five ensuite bedrooms are all privately situated off wide stairwells, with bathrooms with rain showers, and some with the option of indoor/outdoor showers, freestanding bath tubs, and private terraces. There is also a suite with a mezzanine study level and sofa bed that can be used as a sixth sharing room. Our kids loved the family bedroom, which can sleep up to six via the two king-size and two single bunk beds.
After-dinner time was usually spent relaxing, listening to chilled music while the kids excitedly enjoyed a movie in the 18-seater cinema downstairs (after taking forever to agree to what they would watch!). Lime Samui has excellent Wi-Fi, too, plus all the latest gadgets including an impressive sound system and a Playstation.
For those keen to relax a bit more, there’s a mini spa with two massage beds and a mani-pedi chair, and the staff can pre-book pampering and massage services. Fitness bunnies will love the gym, equipped with Life Fitness gear, and there are mountain bikes and kayaks for the more adventurous.
Out and About
Nowhere is too far in Koh Samui. The kids loved the trip down the hill in the van whenever we went on outings to the popular Fisherman’s Village for a bit of local shopping. The Village has a local market every Monday and Friday evening, with everything from street food to clothing, bags and souvenirs. Nikki Beach Club is also a recommended spot for sunset cocktails, great food and some pumping tunes, while another lovely setting is Treetops at Anantara where you literally dine amongst the trees. The Lime staff can arrange outings such as island tours, local cooking classes, temple visits, shows, sports including quad-biking, flyboarding, jet-skiing, golf and diving, as well as boat trips to neighbouring islands.
Each villa stay includes a full complement of staff and a chauffeured vehicle on standby (you only pay the cost of fuel), giving Lime Samui a very relaxing vibe. I would recommend this lovely spot to anyone thinking about trying a villa stay in Thailand. The whole experience was fantastic, and we just can’t wait to return!
Going Green
Lime Samui is green in more than just name. The property has some great eco-credentials; 200 large trees have been planted for the future, grey water is re-used, and the need for bottled water is minimised by the recapture of water from roofs.
Koh Samui is just 3.5 hours from Hong Kong. Lime Samui is a 40-minute drive from the island’s international airport; transfers are provided. Visit limesamui.com for more information or to book.
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This article first appeared in the February/March 2018 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
