The Banyan Tree Krabi, a 72-key luxury resort nestled on a hill side next to Tubkaek Beach and a 45-minute drive from Krabi International Airport, has opened. Launched by Banyan Tree Group, one of the world’s leading independent, multi-branded hospitality groups known for sustainability and wellbeing, this latest 5-star hotel is owned by Thailand-based Asset World Corporation (AWC).

The new resort backs onto a lush national park and Naga Crest Hill and features three ultra-luxury beachfront pool villas, 10 beachfront pool villas, and 59 pool suites—each of which has its own private pool—a westward-facing view of sunset over the Andaman. A natural spring flows downhill into the property where it is transformed into a flower-fringed canal ferrying spring water to the sea.

Facilities at Banyan Tree Krabi include two restaurants and a beach bar, a kids’ club, a fitness centre, a meeting centre, and in keeping with Banyan Tree’s global wellbeing branding — a rainforest-themed spa.

The centerpiece of the resort, as guests walk through the naga legend-inspired entrance, is a circular water feature in the lobby that cascades into a cavernous meeting room area below. With a backdrop of emerald sea and karsts, the awe-inspiring spectacle is shaping up as one of the resort’s signature images.

“Water and nature are the predominant themes here at Banyan Tree Krabi,” said the resort’s new General Manager Robert Sexton. “You are never more than a few steps from a canal with quaint wooden bridges or within earshot of fountains and waterfalls among the gardens.

“One water-related concept we have adopted is that of the ‘Naga’, a sea creature from Hindu mythology that is popular among local legends in Krabi. Long ago, people believed that the Great Naga lived here in the four mountains behind us. From sea, you can see the rollercoaster-shape of the range, somewhat like a slithering serpent. It stretches from Naga Crest Hill, just 500 metres behind the hotel, to Laem Hang Nak Mountain, which represents the tip of the Naga’s tail.

“From the lobby, an eye-catching naga staircase leads downstairs to a shaded ‘grotto’, and you’ll see naga-themed design inspirations throughout the hotel, including wavy artwork on the walls and amenities in all the rooms. The designers have clearly applied elements of the natural landscape to create a unique ambience and a sense of place.”

Banyan Tree Krabi becomes the Group’s fourth Banyan Tree resort in Thailand, following Banyan Tree Phuket, Banyan Tree Bangkok, and Banyan Tree Samui.