This was published 7 years ago
Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort, review: Poolside pleasures
Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort is an ideal retreat for couples and families looking for a quiet holiday.
THE LOCATION
The resort is located just 10 minutes' drive from Samui International Airport. Now I know you're thinking this means air noise, but because the flight path is in the opposite direction, you don't hear a thing.
THE SPACE
Each room has its own deck and mini plunge pool.
The resort is home to 52 private suites and villas scattered over a tropical hillside. The hotel lobby and the fitness centre are perched at the top of the hill, and coiled pathways weave down the slope, past the villas to the beach at the base. This is where you'll find the hub – the dreamy resort pool, two restaurants and bar.
The property was taken over by Outrigger mid-2015, and although the layout remains the same, it's the subtle Outrigger changes that give it that extra something. One of my favourite design elements is the lush landscaped vegetation throughout – an Outrigger addition.
Another Outrigger touch, The Wet Bar, is the perfect spot for a sunset drink or three. Otherwise Edgewater restaurant for top views any time of day is a must. The five tables arranged on a circular platform that protrudes out over the sand are worth snagging.
Koh Samui sunset.
Most people spend their days lounging by the pool or on the beach. I favour the day bed cabanas located under The Wet Bar. Here I admire the beach in privacy and it's only a hop and a skip away from the resort pool – a two-level water haven featuring a swim-up bar.
THE ROOM
Thirty-four suites and 18 villas, with a few located beachfront and the others dispersed on the hill, make up the resort. Each room has its own deck and mini plunge pool, hidden away from prying eyes by tropical vegetation.
Outrigger fare.
The original design concept embraced long curtains and gothic-inspired furniture (such as dramatic four-poster beds) for a moody cave-like feel. The Outrigger redesign involved lightening it all up. Curtains were shortened, the poster beds were scrapped, and some of the old-fashioned furnishings were replaced with contemporary pickings. Outrigger worked with a local designer and the result is fresh and airy rooms that feel more in touch with the surrounds.
THE FOOD
Presentation is key here and every dish is an elaborate affair, starting with breakfast at Edgewater. A reasonable-sized buffet provides more than enough variety, but you can also choose two cooked breakfast options from the a la carte menu. You'd assume that's it, but to my surprise I'm also presented with a high tea-style tray adorned with fresh fruits and pastries.
Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort.
Edgewater restaurant is the top choice for poolside lunching, with casual fare spanning everything from pizzas to Thai beef salads.
Dinner at Blue Fire Grill is a highlight, and although the food takes some time to come out, it's worth the wait. My entree of scallops is perfect summer fare and the duck breast main is the prettiest dish I've ever seen: two plump duck pieces are flanked by roasted parsnip slices and carrot smithereens.
STEPPING OUT
Convenient access to the airport is a big plus. Nearby there are various shops and it's easy enough to call a taxi or hire a moped and explore. Like with most Outrigger properties, the attraction is staying in.
THE VERDICT
Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort has style and swagger and is an ideal retreat for couples and families looking for a quiet holiday.
HIGHLIGHT
Beach view breakfasts.
LOWLIGHT
If you're in a rush, the meals at Blue Fire Grill can take a while.
ESSENTIALS
63/182 Moo 5, T. Bophut Koh Samui, Suratthani, 84320 Thailand. Garden pool suites start from THB 5900 ($225) + taxes a night. See outrigger.com.
Tatyana Leonov was a guest of Outrigger Resorts (outrigger.com).
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