My wife and I first discovered this little gem in 2000 when we stayed there following an excursion on the Eastern and Orient Express between Singapore and Bangkok. We have returned twice since.
The Rayavadee is a most beautiful hotel and, though part of the Krabi mainland, is accessible only from the sea due to a range of limestone outcrops blocking the end of the stunning Phranang Peninsular. It nestles discreteely amidst tropical gardens and coconut groves against a backdrop of sheer cliffs, lush jungle foliage and the clear waters of the Andaman Sea.
The hotel operates its own luxury high speed ferry from the Krabi mainland or guests can arrive by direct ferry service from Phuket.
The Rayavadee offers stylish five-star accommodation by way of self contained Pavilions and a small number of luxury villas.
The Rayavadee also boasts excellent fine cuisine, both International, classic and Thai. It offers a choice of four restaurants where Air-conditioned and open-air seating is available.
It further offers one of the most unique relaxation spas in Thailand with warm, attentive service while its free form swimming pool was, at our last stay, boasting to be the largets such pool in Thailand.
An abundance of culture surrounds the hotel and, outside of the secure hotel grounds, are a plentiful choice of local bars, restaurants and shops.
The main Railay beach, along part of the hotels boundary, is a popular venue, particularly in th evenings, where the sunsets are spectacular and I well recall the haunting sound of an Alpine Horn echoing against the sheer limestone cliffs. The gentleman who played it made an annual pilgrimage to Krabi and was always a popular entertainer.
There are numerous activities offered by both the hotel and the adjacent village. These include speedboat excursions to the famous Phi Phi Island or Phang Nga Bay, where participants can experience both exhilarating adventure and romance.
You can kayak through a pristine mangrove forest or climb aboard an elephant for a ramble through the Krabi landscape. Scale a rock wall with private rock climbing instruction, hike a nature trail to a waterfall, learn to scuba dive from your own private dive boat or discover the art of Thai cooking.
Particularly for me was the Scuba Diving. Gentle and attractive local reefs are a great way to start this amazing sport.
If you are looking for accommodation in Krabi, away from the hustle and bustle of Phuket and the alternative Krabi districts, then Rayavadee is the perfect place to stay! It is a haven of peace and tranquility but for those wishing a little more life the nearby village has much to offer.
The Rayavadee hit all the spots for my wife and i and we certainly look forward to a return in the not too distant future.
My thanks go particularly to Sujitra Kumprew and the rayavadee team for their kind supply of their latest photographs.
Kob kun kap.
