We review Six Senses Samui, where an elevated jungle house aesthetic brings your peaceful retreat dreams to life
A slice of paradise is waiting.
Living in Hong Kong, Thailand is my top pick for a weekend escape. From indulging in award-winning cuisine in Bangkok to exploring ancient temples in Chiang Mai, and basking in the sun-kissed shores of Phuket and Koh Samui, the Land of Smiles beckons with an irresistible allure. Yet, amidst these diverse destinations, Koh Samui holds a special place in my heart. There’s an enchanting quality to this Coconut Island, evident from the moment you touch down at its quaint airport with its charming thatched roofs, palm-tree pillars, and rustic wooden structures. During a recent visit, I had the pleasure of staying at Six Senses Samui. Nestled amidst lush vegetation on the island’s northern tip, this haven of tranquillity is located just a short 10-minute ride from the airport.
Fun fact: Did you know there’s a local ordinance on Samui prohibiting buildings from surpassing the height of a coconut tree (12 metres)? It’s little details like these that add to the island’s tropical charm, and I find myself utterly captivated by its essence.
While this stay was complimentary, all thoughts and opinions are our own. If you decide to book, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Six Senses Samui, Thailand review
Setting the scene
A warm airport meet-and-greet, inclusive of a refreshing lemongrass-infused cold towel, sets the tone for your stay. As you journey towards the hotel, winding roads flanked by untamed banana and coconut trees guide the way, painting a picturesque path to your sanctuary.
The hotel’s open-air reception, with its rustic wooden architecture, offers a panoramic vista of the sea beyond. It’s hard not to feel a hint of Tarzan-esque excitement amidst this jungle-inspired backdrop.
Upon arrival, a cool, rejuvenating tea awaits, accompanied by the friendly smile of your Guest Experience Maker, your personal guide throughout your stay. I was travelling with my husband and daughter and the personalised greeting by name added a touch of effortless hospitality.
You’re a short drive away from attractions such as the Plai Laem Temple – famous for its 18-arm statue of the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion, What Phra Yai, with its 12-metre-tall golden Buddha, and the Fisherman’s Village with its night market. Yet, chances are high you’ll find yourself spending most of your holiday at the resort, lazing on the beach or by the pool. There are also bikes to borrow and non-motorised watersports available on-site for the active buffs.
This blend of natural beauty and convenient accessibility to local highlights ensures a truly enriching experience for guests seeking both relaxation and exploration. With its emphasis on laid-back luxury, Six Senses Samui seamlessly blends into its surroundings, offering a sanctuary where guests can truly kick off their shoes and unwind.
The villas
With only 67 villas scattered across eight hectares of pristine natural landscape, tranquillity is guaranteed. Each accommodation, except for the three Hideaway villas and four Ocean villas, features its own private 18 sq-m infinity pool, offering an exclusive retreat amidst the jungle foliage.
During our stay in the Ocean View Pool Villa, the floor-to-ceiling windows provided a seamless blend of jungle serenity and ocean vistas. The villa, set across two levels with the bedroom above and the pool deck below, exudes a rustic elegance with its intricate wood and rattan furnishings.
Ample relaxation spaces abound, from the cozy indoor living room area to the inviting sunbeds on the pool deck. There’s an oversized sunken bathtub and an alfresco shower offering indulgent moments of rejuvenation amidst nature’s embrace. And for those daring enough, the seclusion of your villa’s infinity pool may inspire a liberating naked dip. The mosquito net, delicately suspended over your bed from the ceiling, offers a whimsical touch to the room’s ambiance while ensuring peaceful slumber.
In-room amenities include an LCD TV, though I found myself drawn more to the tranquil surroundings than the screen, an espresso machine, and a delightful selection of teas by Six Senses.
It’s worth noting that the manual blinds in the rooms allow some morning sunlight to filter through. While this was a welcomed aspect for us, providing a gentle awakening to the day, it may be a consideration for those who prefer complete darkness for a restful sleep.
Food and drink
Six Senses Samui has three restaurants and a bar. Dining on The Hill is the resort’s main dining venue, offering panoramic views of the azure sea from its perch atop the hill. This open-air restaurant serves exquisite Thai cuisine alongside a selection of Western comfort food for those seeking a change of pace. Breakfast here is a tantalising spread, featuring a buffet of fresh fruits, pastries, noodles, and made-to-order dishes such as Pad Kra Pao, Thai Omelette, and coconut waffles.
Drift at the Beach invites you to a casual beachside experience. The menu boasts a diverse array of offerings, from wood-fired pizzas to fresh bowls and a selection of Thai specialties, catering to every palate. Everything was super fresh and the specials of the day that I tried, a local shrimp ceviche with avocado salsa and a barramundi cooked in lemongrass were packed with flavours.
However, the pride of the resort is the award-winning Dining on the Rocks. Comprising ten teak terraced decks, this unique dining destination offers an alfresco experience under the stars, with nothing but the sound of waves and the sight of the ocean to accompany your meal. The menu presents a contemporary twist on Thai cuisine, showcasing local produce and fresh flavours. Guests can choose from various set menus, such as the At The Rock and Thai Fusion, to savour a diverse array of dishes, including a squid risotto with Thom Kai Gai sauce and a deconstructed version of the Thai roasted duck curry (Gaeng Phed Ped Yang). Indulge in Thai-inspired cocktails like the Pandan Margarita and the Mango Sticky Rice, featuring homemade coconut-infused vodka and mango puree.
Speaking of cocktails, Drinks on the Hill is where to unwind with pre-and-post-dinner drinks. We recommend visiting during Golden Hour, when the space is bathed in natural golden light and offers a front-row seat to a memorable Samui sunset.
Water and wellness facilities
Despite the indulgence of our own in-villa private pool, we found ourselves irresistibly drawn to the hotel’s expansive infinity pool each day. Perhaps it’s the allure of its breathtaking panoramic views or the comfort of the plush sunbeds that flank its edges, but there’s an undeniable magic to this pool. As day transitions into night, it transforms into a mesmerising sunset spot, beckoning you to immerse yourself in its shimmering waters while the sky paints itself in vibrant hues of orange and red. Another pool also awaits by the beach.
Nestled hillside, the Spa offers a serene sanctuary for holistic rejuvenation. Treatment rooms overlook the rock-fringed bay, offering captivating vistas that enhance the healing experience. Surrender to the transformative power of signature treatments such as the Thai Healing Therapy and the Sound Releasing, designed to harmonise mind, body, and spirit. Engage in yoga or meditation sessions amidst the tranquil surroundings, allowing the contemplative environment to guide you on a journey of inner peace and renewal.
Sustainability
Aligned with Six Senses’ steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, the Six Senses Samui property invites guests to indulge in a stay that is free from unnecessary waste, toxins, and plastics.
At the onsite Farm on the Hill, sustainability takes root through innovative practices aimed at fostering circularity within the hotel’s operations. Here, waste is transformed into valuable resources such as compost and charcoal, while a bounty of vegetables and herbs flourish to supply the property’s restaurants.
I joined the Sustainability Walk and enjoyed this insightful journey into the inner workings of the farm, while my little ones had fun visiting the goats and collecting breakfast eggs from the chicken enclosure. In a testament to the hotel’s dedication to sustainability education, local communities and students are also welcomed to the farm to learn about waste reduction and sustainable practices, underscoring the property’s commitment to leading the charge in sustainable hospitality and luxury.
Other noteworthy initiatives include the implementation of a heat recovery system, a comprehensive ban on single-use plastics with eco-friendly alternatives such as lemongrass drinking straws and glass bottles, and community-focused activities such as tree planting and beach cleanups.
The verdict
I’ve already booked a stay for next year. I believe that says it all.
Learn more about Six Senses Samui or Book through booking.com
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