Le Vimarn Cottages & Spa

The combination of its secluded beachfront setting and just 30 rooms gives Le Vimarn Cottages & Spa an intimate, cozy feel. An elegant design with traditional elements pervades throughout, with lots of open-air spaces, rich teak wood, thatched roofs, and lights hanging from vaulted ceilings. Rattan furniture, large floor vases, and fish fountains at the pool add more local character. There's an obvious focus on nature here, with many of the rooms and facilities facing the ocean, and gorgeous, lush grounds that are well-manicured. The peaceful atmosphere and adult-centric features make this a popular spot for couples, including those on their honeymoon. Families or travelers looking to explore the island may find the location a bit too out-of-the-way, however.

On Koh Samet's northwestern coast, Le Vimarn Cottages & Spa is situated along the pristine and picturesque Ao Prao Beach, which is shared with just a few other hotels. The location is somewhat isolated, so there's little to do within walking distance, but taxis can take guests to Koh Samet Beach and the numerous bars and restaurants nearby in about five to 10 minutes. Free shuttle speedboat transfers are provided to the resort from Ao Prao Pier on mainland Thailand three times each day. The pier is about a two-hour-and-forty-minute drive from Bangkok.  

The 30 cottages and villas are charming and spacious, done in a mostly contemporary style with some locally inspired touches. Expect hardwood floors, a mix of modern wood and traditional rattan furniture, thatched roofs, vaulted ceilings, and mostly earth-tone palettes, plus lilac accents in some. Four-poster beds, local artwork, and bronze wall hangings add personality. All rooms also have private furnished terraces, some of which offer stunning ocean views and big tubs. Standard amenities include air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and tea- and coffee-making facilities, but no ceiling fans. Desks, sitting areas, and closets with bathrobes, electronic safes, sandals, slippers, and umbrellas are also provided. Bathrooms vary by room, and some have colorful purple or emerald green tiles. They also come with showers, free toiletries, and hairdryers, plus some add big mosaic-tiled tubs. 

Le Vimarn Cottages & Spa has a range of features that are primarily geared toward couples on vacation. A highlight is the private area of Ao Prao Beach, which is quiet and lined with cushioned loungers. Overlooking the beach and ocean is a well-sized infinity-edge pool. It has a jetted area and deck lined with loungers under umbrellas. Another raved-about amenity is the full-service spa, which offers a variety of treatments, some of which can be done in rooms with outdoor tubs. The fitness center has two walls of windows that let in lots of light, but there are only a few cardio and strength-training machines, in addition to free weights.Two dining options include Buzz, a contemporary beachfront eatery serving up traditional Thai fare. It has both indoor and outdoor seating and is popular for its happy hour drinks. O Restaurant, meanwhile, offers buffet breakfasts with international fare and Italian food, such as wood-fired pizza, at dinner. Both receive positive reviews, though many guests have commented that it's a bit overpriced for the quality. Wi-Fi is free and a computer is on-site for guest use.