Ayara Kamala is nestled into the hillside of Phuket’s famous Millionaire’s Mile. The exclusive, boutique resort and spa became our luxury hideaway for a few days on the island’s picturesque west coast. From the moment we arrived at Ayara Kamala, we felt at home. The staff were friendly, the rooms and suites beautifully appointed and the view would rival those of the best resorts in the world.
Undisturbed panorama from the upper pool at Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa, Phuket. Image © Skye Gilkeson
Ayara Kamala
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There is a feeling of calm that seems to sweep across Ayara Kamala. With just 42 rooms it is a true boutique hotel. Ten stunning villas are spaced out across the property to ensure complete privacy. The resort is a peaceful place that prides itself on personalised service. The design philosophy centres around a respect of its natural surroundings; ‘Ayara’ is a reference to the calm and gentle nature of elephants. The elephant motif features around the property as a reminder of that principle.
Blurred blues lines from our infinity pool at Resort & Spa, Phuket. Image © Skye Gilkeson
The view was breathtaking as we slid open the door to our Grand Pool Villa. The villa was divided into two spacious living quarters but we spent most of our time in the space in between. A lawn with sun chairs and a day bed took full advantage of the million dollar vista. Looking across the private infinity pool we could barely distinguish where the brilliant blue of the Andaman Sea met the sky. We sat spotting yachts and watched as the water sparkled during the day, turning tangerine each evening. It is one of the most stunning sunset spots we’ve ever experienced.
Sunset swims at our Grand Pool Villa at Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa, Phuket. Image © Skye Gilkeson
After sundown, we relaxed in the living area, furnished with an oversized lounge, kitchen and dining area. We later, retired to our bedroom suite where a king sized bed, huge master bathroom and jacuzzi were waiting. In the morning, we could watch the sunrise from the comfort of our sheets, morning coffee in hand. It was heaven.
Enjoy ocean views from bed in the Grand Pool Villa at Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa. Image © Skye Gilkeson
Beautiful personalised details at Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa, Phuket. Image © Skye Gilkeson
Large master bathroom in the Grand Pool Villa at Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa, Phuket. Image © Skye Gilkeson
The Cradle Restaurant serves up western and Asian dishes from fresh, local produce with a view to the Andaman Sea. Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa, Phuket. Image © Skye Gilkeson
The Cradle Restaurant
We sauntered into breakfast at The Cradle Restaurant each morning to the hum of soft jazz and the muted conversations of other guests, seated around the pool. Each table is positioned to take in the ocean panorama. We preferred to settle into the corner spot which gave us a view across the tree-covered landscape, the additional infinity pool below and the sea. Guests ordered of the menu and could also fill their plates from the breakfast buffet, featuring both western and Asian dishes.
Healthy breakfast with a view of the Andaman Sea at Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa, Phuket. Image © Skye Gilkeson
A fresh and colourful start to the day at The Cradle Restaurant, Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa, Phuket. Image © Skye Gilkeson
Mornings at The Cradle Restaurant, Ayara Kamala Resort & Spa, Phuket. Image © Skye Gilkeson
We ate all of our meals during our stay in Kamala, at the resort. Partly because we were so relaxed during our days at the villa and it was convenient to simply wander down to the main building or order room service. Mostly though, it was because the food was so fresh and delicious. The menu includes some western favourites like pizzas, burgers and salads, but we stuck to the tasty Thai dishes; Tom Kha Gai, Tom Yum Goong and grilled and steamed seafood with chilli and lime sauce were just a few of our favourite finds.
