The Umbrella Tree Court
The Grotto
Stretching across three beaches at the tip of the Phranang Peninsula is the stunning Rayavadee resort. This coconut grove filled property is the epitome of Leading Hotels of the World- we were treated with some of the best service, amenities and food in Thailand.
ROOMS: Every room on property is its own two story rondavel so the lead in Deluxe Pavilion category feels like an upgrade. There are of course a few villas to choose from if you really wish to splurge but I was perfectly happy with my lux accommodations with mini chocolate chip cookies refilled daily.
DINING: I am not ashamed to say that we had lunch everyday beach side at The Grotto…the chicken & bacon panini was my go to but there are many thai appetizers and other sandwiches/options to choose from. It was the perfect people watching spot as longboats full of tourists flock to Phranang beach. This was also the ideal sundowner spot….passion fruit martinis for days. Daily breakfast was served at Raya Dining and it was nice to be able to order a few hot items along with the expansive buffet. This was also the location for high tea which they provide certain days of the week. Located over on Railay Beach is the Raitalay Terrace which is another great sunset spot with a Mediterranean dinner menu but where we were treated to an upscale breakfast one morning…think acia bowls w/ peanut butter and a French toast benedict concoction (forgot the name of the dish). Our last night we ended up at Krua Phranang which is their Thai restaurant- spicy prawn salad, lamb massaman curry & crispy whole sea bass just to name a few. I also must mention the room service pizza because sometimes you just need to stay in your robe during a rain storm!
ACTIVITES: where do I begin…I guess with all the complimentary offerings such as kayaks, paddle boards, intro to Thai boxing, yoga and even a guided hike to the viewpoint- the things you do when you don’t have a drone haha. There are also cooking classes and day excursions via land and sea but I would recommend haggling with a local longtail boat driver to take you out to Poda/Chicken island and do a quick cruise around the Andaman Sea.
WEDDINGS: I truly can’t think of a more picturesque place to say I do in all of Thailand. Ceremony in The Grotto followed by reception in The Umbrella Tree Court. See more: DESTINATION WEDDINGS
