Rosewood Phuket

Opened in November 2017, Rosewood Phuket is one of the most luxurious (and priciest) options in Phuket. Guests arrive to a large circular driveway with an elephant sculpture at its center, then make their way past lily pad ponds to a swish lobby with desserts for the taking and views out over the property and ocean. The property is set on a hill, with stunning villas and resort features on terraced grounds that slope down to a pleasant, albeit small, beach. Travelers can walk or call for buggies to take them through the well-manicured grounds, where flowers abound and trees were strategically moved and replanted during the construction. While the many trees here are atmospheric and lovely, they do obstruct views of the ocean. Plus, the cruise ships that frequent here can be an eyesore. Grounds are packed with locally inspired sculptures, ponds with lily pads, and swish facilities that range from a kids' club to a spa to an open-air Thai eatery. Guests generally hang around the oceanfront pool during the day, which has a couple adjacent spots for drinks and food. However, because every room here has a private pool, many visitors choose to spend most of their time in their villa. Environmentally friendly details such as glasses instead of plastic cups in rooms are also a plus. While this is undoubtedly a phenomenal property, it's worth considering Banyan Tree Phuket, which has villas with priate pools and typically much lower rates.

Rosewood Phuket is located along Tri Trang Beach, a public stretch of white sand with calm waters, overlooking Emerald Bay. Unfortunately, the beach is fairly small, and cruise ships are often in the line of sight. Guests looking to walk long stretches will have to head to famous, buzzing Patong Beach, which is about a five-minute drive away. There's little within walking distance of the Rosewood, aside from a handful of restaurants and other hotels, and a Family Mart. The huge Big Buddha sculpture is an hour's drive away. Phuket International Airport is around a 60- to 90-minute drive, depending on traffic. 

The 71 villas and pavilions here are spread out among the lush grounds, from hilltop units to beachfront rooms. All are designed in the same upscale style, with mostly neutral-tone fabrics, wood floors, and homey touches such as books, photo frames, and vases. Shelves lined with copper cocktail shakers and Japanese tea cups, and Marshall speakers add fun touches. A huge perk of the Rosewood is that every unit has its own private plunge pool, next to an umbrella-shaded daybed and table. Views range, but expect ocean views to be partially obstructed by trees. King-size beds are comfy, and living spaces have sofas, Nespresso machines, minibars, and free glass bottles of water. Bathrooms are impressive, with dual sinks, indoor rainfall showers, outdoor bathtubs and additional rainfall showers, and ample swish toiletries, including sunscreen spray and mosquito repellent. Robes, slippers, beach bags, and sun hats are provided, as are electronic safes and free Wi-Fi. Some units have direct beach access and two bedrooms.  

The Rosewood Phuket has extensive features for both adults and kids. A highlight is the lovely stretch of beach, which has water calm enough for swimming. Loungers aren't actually set up here, though, but there's a sandy section in front of the pool with loungers and sea views. The beautiful freeform pool is divided by wooden pathways into several sections, with lots of greenery and umbrella-shaded loungers that give aa sense of seclusion. As many visitors opt to take a dip in their private plunge pools, the main pool is peaceful. Non-motorized water sports can be borrowed for free.Up by the lobby is the swish spa, which has a large outdoor garden area with shaded benches and water features. A variety of treatments are available, including massages, facials, and alternative therapies such as Reiki and Watsu. A modern but somewhat small fitness center has all the necessary cardio and strength-training equipment, and free exercise classes are offered daily. Next to the gym is the no-technology kids' club, which has indoor and outdoor areas. Games, arts and crafts, swings, a garden where activities are held, and pirate ship play structure keep children busy without technology. Meeting and event spaces are on-site, and wedding planning services are available. Wi-Fi is free and reliable throughout the property.

There are a few well-regarded restaurants on-site, all facing the ocean. The main eatery is Red Sauce, which serves a phenomenal breakfast buffet consisting of a cold buffet and made-to-order smoothies, juices, and hot entrees. Ample indoor and outdoor sea-view seating is available. For lunch and dinner it turns into an Italian restaurant. Ta Khai, which means "fishing net” in Thai, is a dinner-only Thai restaurant with a beautiful outdoor setting and a windowed indoor space. Lantern lighting and an open kitchen with sit-up stools add to the atmosphere. A set tasting menu and a la carte dishes are both available.Next to the pool is The Shack, a casual seafood eatery open for lunch and dinner. Menu items include lobster, ceviche, and pad Thai. Near here is Mai, a lunch and dinner bar with chic seating and wooden bead curtains. Light bites such as fried calamari and sushi rolls are on offer, as well as ample alcoholic drinks.Room service is available 24/7.