X2 Kui Buri

Occupying an area largely untouched by tourism, surrounded by fishing villages and facing onto virgin beach, the X2 Kui Buri takes you away from the crowds. Exclusive and luxurious, the resort also has a spiritual edge, thanks to its careful, harmonious planning. When designing the X2 Kui Buri resort, the architects' main goal was that the buildings 'satisfy the spirit' – this has been achieved by a clever and careful interweaving of the existing landscape with the most Zen of buildings. Large, mature trees have been carefully preserved, providing a unique atmosphere punctuated by large open spaces and unique natural horticulture, while inside the hotel, stonework walls, Oriental-style furniture, subtle natural lighting and bare flagstone floors create spaces at once relaxing, calm and very intimate. Furthermore, while the property covers four acres, the small number of villas means that it's never difficult to find some peace.

Each of the villas has its own terrace, garden and private pool, giving you all the space you need to chill out. Rooms are decorated in a minimalist style, with designer furniture and natural materials set against splashes of vibrant colour and crisp white sheets. Facilities include indoor and outdoor showers, king-size beds, plasma-screen televisions, DVD, CD and MP3 players, outdoor sun loungers, individual air-conditioning and broadband internet access. The resort also has a large pool overlooking the sea – the ultimate place from which to admire the sunset. If you feel like spoiling yourself a little, head for the spa, where you will find treatments that aim to balance mind, body and spirit. The East–West fusion seen throughout the resort continues in the funky bar, as well as in the '4K' (Fork) restaurant, which bases its menu around the best local and seasonal produce.

X2 Kui Buri is located on the Gulf of Thailand, approximately a three hour drive from Bangkok, and not far from the popular resort towns of Hua Hin and Pranburi. The general area is more peaceful and less developed than many others, with the only local communities being fishing villages.