Hotel review: Intercontinental Phuket Resort offers a slice of heaven to the well-heeled traveller

Murals of the Old Phuket Town regale us as we walk through a short underpass to the main property facing the mountains, offering a slice of life on the island. There, we are taken by the resort’s natural beauty, with its picturesque surroundings and zen architecture. The open-air lobby is grand, and decorated with artwork by local artists including sculptor Komkrit Teptian, who garnered acclaim with his Giant Twins sculpture at the Bangkok Biennale 2018. Winding passageways to villas are adorned with lush foliage, leaving a sense of serene peace.

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There are a total of 221 rooms and villas across the sprawling property, as well as a total of five swimming pools. That includes an infinity pool that offers a stunning view of the terrain. 

We’re in a premium ocean view room, which is spacious and tastefully decorated with neutral tones and brass-accented artworks. Natural soap by wellness brand Harnn sits atop luxurious marble counters. Taking a step outside onto the balcony, we find prime views of the beachfront pool, and just beyond the palm trees, the roiling waves of the Andaman sea. 

Gourmands looking for an exceptional dining experience will find it here at Hom, a new restaurant helmed by chef Ricardo Nunes. Located at the awe-inspiring Sawan Pavilion (“sawan” means “heaven” in Thai), the experience begins down a walkway flanked by silver mosaic columns—as if crossing through the threshold between heaven and earth in the mythical Himmapan forest. Once there, we are treated to Nunes’s “10 Moments” tasting menu, with each course intricately undergirded by exacting techniques of fermentation. It is without a doubt one of the most exquisite dining experiences we’ve ever had. 

Besides Hom, there are six other restaurants at the property to choose from. Jaras is another exceptional restaurant, recommended by the Michelin Guide since 2022. It offers a range of contemporary Thai dishes made with both ancient and novel techniques, and ingredients from local farmers and fishermen. Order from the à la carte menu, or for the full dining experience, choose the tasting menu to sample all of chef de cuisine Chalermwut Srivolalkul’s innovative dishes.

Elsewhere, Pinto offers a wide range of local and international gourmet fare, and those with a taste for Japanese cuisine can head down to Tengoku. Lounge by the beachfront at either Pine Beach Bar or 333 at the Beach while savouring craft cocktails and grilled delights. For an air of sophistication, have afternoon tea at the Club Lounge or the Devas Lounge, which also turns into a bar once the sun sets.

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Wellness is another key element of the resort’s vision of heaven, which is why the Sati Spa is also located at the Sawan Pavilion. With an assortment of Thai, Balinese, stone, and sports massages to choose from, don’t forget to consider the spa’s range of facials—developed in partnership with French cosmetics brand Anne Semonin Paris.

Those looking to keep active will appreciate the resort’s 24-hour gym which is well-stocked with state-of-the-art equipment. If you’re looking for something more exciting, the resort also offers yoga classes, Muay Thai demonstrations and bike tours throughout the week. 

To make the most out of your trip, sign up for the full-day Phuket explorer tour with the hotel, where you’ll be treated to all the island has to offer. That includes the Put Jaw Chinese temple and a traditional cashew nut factory. What’s more, there’s the opportunity to sightsee the other picturesque islands around Phuket, with day trips by speedboat to Phi Phi Island and James Bond Island. 

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