Banyan Tree Samui, Koh Samui

Set amongst lush tropical greenery, the seventy-eight pool villas of Banyan Tree Samui are spread on cascading terraces surrounding a picturesque bay.

In a hallmark Banyan Tree style, the villas’ style is a fusion of the traditional Thai architecture and contemporary expanses of glass, water, and opalescent ceramic tiles.

Spaces flow comfortably from the bedroom(s) out to the swimming pool in front and Jacuzzi, and further to the open pavilion. The villas vary from a generous 130 square meters (Garden Pool Villa) up to a whopping 316 meters of the Sanctuary Pool Villa.

“The Rainforest” in the Spa

Spa aficionados are familiar with the award-winning Banyan Tree brand, its holistic approach to wellness and the all-encompassing treatment experience.

Spa at Banyan Tree Samui continues this tradition—and makes a great impression with The Rainforest: the unique, island’s first, wellness and hydrotherapy center, of which we particularly loved the wooden bucket with icy water, and the tropical drizzle walk.

The Saffron and The Edge

The choice of cuisine starts with the signature Thai Saffron restaurant and extends to The Edge, a place with a stunning view over the entire bay and the hill. Then The Sands, on the beach is a great hangout offering grill and fresh seafood.

Many guests will often dine in the privacy of their villas and the hotel can also organize a special, romantic dinner on the beach.

Neighborhood

Banyan Tree Samui is located on the south-east coast of Koh Samui, just 19 km from Samui International Airport. The hotel is close to the popular Lamai Beach, which is worth a visit for light shopping or just a stroll—though keep in mind it’s a bit touristy there.

in our opinion

Banyan Tree Samui makes every effort to provide a quiet and luxurious time off from life. It’s a great place for a honeymoon or a romantic holiday for two—and its spa is heavenly.

*This review contains affiliate links at no extra cost to you.

What we love

• Fantastic design and architecture of the villas, with high standard furnishing and all mod cons;
• The huge infinity pool each villa comes with;
• Excellent spa—and especially the drizzle rain walk in The Rainforest;
• Very good breakfast, with a varied menu;
• Bathrooms are equipped with high-quality products Banyan Tree Spa, which we just adore.

What you should know

• The hotel is a little too big, though the staff with a golf buggy is always on hand;
• Some villas are more private than others;
• The golf buggies used to move around the hotel didn’t fill us with confidence: the hotel paths are narrow and very steep, and the vehicles are moving through them pretty fast. Elderly guests and families with children may find it uncomfortable;
• The best weather on Samui—and the best time to visit—is from March to August.