Six unique secluded escapes in the Far East

Looking to head off map and fully recharge? You’re in the right place. From jungle-wrapped retreats to castaway beaches. These top-tier Southeast Asia sanctuaries are made for namastay.

Sip sunset cocktails at Paradee Resort, Koh Samet, Thailand 

Paradee Resort, on the idyllic island of Koh Samet, is just a short road and boat transfer from Bangkok, ideal for a hassle-free island getaway. This boutique gem is pinned between lush jungle and white-sand shores, and it’s great for couples looking to strip it all back and enjoy an authentic slice of Thai beach life. Just 40 thatched villas dot down the hillside onto the beach, all with four-poster beds and little treats such as daily seasonal fruit and complimentary afternoon tea. While away your days relaxing by the infinity pool, pop on your mask and flippers and go snorkelling with tropical fish or take a taxi into town to sample the local bars and restaurants. When the sun goes down, feast on Asian fusion food in the breezy restaurant or chill out at the sunset bar with a signature cocktail in hand – we recommend the Paradee Margarita cocktail, a delightful combo of tequila, lime and homemade butterfly pea syrup.

Go on a wellness journey at Fusion Resort Cam Ranh, Nha Trang

Fusion Resort Cam Ranh puts wellness front and centre, with a spa-first philosophy that makes switching off second nature. Set on a stretch of sand overlooking the South China Sea, this laidback retreat is all about feeling good – and staying that way. Think daily treatments included as standard, from tension-melting massages to glow-boosting facials, alongside yoga sessions and meditation that ease you into holiday mode.

When you’re ready to venture out, the coastline around Nha Trang offers plenty to explore – from island-hopping boat trips to snorkelling in clear, reef-dotted waters. Or keep things simple and stay put: stretch out by your private pool, dip in and out of the sea and round off the day with a sunset drink as the sky softens to gold.

Stargaze in a jungle bubble at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Thailand

Hidden in the misty mountains of Northern Thailand, with views of Laos, Myanmar and the Mekong River, this one-of-a-kind luxury jungle resort has its very own conservation camp offering unforgettable elephant encounters for its guests. Spend the night in a Jungle Bubble – a transparent dome perched on a wooden deck with uninterrupted views of the gentle giants roaming below – or trek into the hills of the Golden Triangle on an elephant picnic. Tuck into a gourmet hamper and enjoy the views, as your elephant friends enjoy a snack nearby. As well as plenty of ways to get hands-on with these magnificent creatures, there are other wild adventures to experience too. You can take a chauffeured tour of the countryside in a Royal Enfield Classic sidecar, whip up a tasty Thai dish at the cooking school or pull on some Muy Thai shorts and have a go at kickboxing. For a more relaxed approach to jungle life, head to the spa for a traditional massage on a lemongrass-scented pavilion or float in the infinity pool while soaking up the incredible valley views.

Swim with turtles at Pondok Santi, Gili Islands, Indonesia 

Indonesia’s ‘Gilis’ were once only a whisper among in-the-know backpackers, who flocked to these bohemian islands for the isolated beaches, laidback lifestyle and superb snorkelling and diving. Nowadays, you can experience a more luxurious side to this off-the-beaten-track destination, as there are now a handful of high-class havens hidden across the three islands. We love Pondok Santi, a gorgeous retreat nestled in a coconut plantation in a sleepy corner of Gili Trawangan. There are just 18 bungalows here, all beautifully styled with a magazine-worthy open-air bathroom. You can spend your time here relaxing on a hammock on the private beach, exploring the island on complimentary bikes or swimming with turtles; these captivating creatures are often seen from the shore. After dark, don’t miss the dramatic sunsets and strawberry daiquiris at the beach lounge, followed by a delicious dinner of Indonesian cuisine or western dishes in Santi Restaurant; their stone-cooked pizzas are the best on the island. 

Stay on a private island oasis at Cape Fahn Hotel, Thailand

Set on a private island just off the coast of Koh Samui, this uber-cool resort is one of Thailand’s most exclusive spots where you can follow in regal footsteps – Her Royal Highness, the Princess of Thailand, attended the opening ceremony. You’ll also be treated like royalty from the moment you arrive, with a welcome of homemade juice, cookies from the on-site bakery and a refreshing eucalyptus-scented towel. This is that top-notch personalised service that Small Luxury Hotels of the World are known for. As there are just 22 villas scattered around the island – all with their own large plunge pool and a beachy, barefoot vibe – space and seclusion are guaranteed. You can wake up to a floating breakfast in your private pool, paddleboard around the island or enjoy canapés and sparkling wine while watching a classic Hollywood movie at the starlit cinema.  

Dine by a waterfall at The Sarojin

The Sarojin is tucked away on a seven-mile white sand beach surrounded by ancient rainforest in Khao Lak and is one of Thailand’s most romantic resorts. The Sarojin recently won a spot on TripAdvisors’ ‘Top Hotels for Romance’ list and with an array of activities that are perfect for couples, it’s easy to see why. An attentive ‘Imagineer’ is on hand to create an intimate itinerary just for two that may include a show-stealing private dining experience. Walk along a moonlit jungle path to find a magical dinner setting by a waterfall that’s aglow with hundreds of candles, and a personal chef waiting to cook up a Thai banquet. Or go shipwrecked, Sarojin style, and dine under the stars on a secluded sandy island. 

The information within this feature is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication.