Koh Naka Retreat (Phang Nga Bay Phuket)

Besides infrequent day trippers and passing yachts dropping anchor for lunch, the only other inhabitants are a few local Thais living in a small village on the other side of the island. A short boat ride away is the smaller Koh Naka Noi island where a working pearl farm can be explored.

The origin of the Koh Naka Yai island name relates to its shape which is believed to be in the form of the mythical sacred Sea-Serpent the Naka (or Naga).

Arriving at Koh Naka Retreat, set high above the northeast shore line, a private jetty leads to the infinity edge swimming pool which enjoys stunning views of Phang Nga Bay.

From the pool a broad stairway flanked on either side by guardian Naka, leads upwards through the tropical garden to a teak shingle roofed Sala constructed over a bubbling watercourse which introduces the entrance to the main residence. Here a traditional terra cotta relief depicts the Naka at the birth of the universe.

The interior of the house is essentially oriental in character with adjustments to accommodate western style living. Here there is no lack of creature comforts — a combination of western "necessities" complimented by the splendour and design of the Orient.

A curved marble staircase leads to the main living room of the house where teak panelled walls and cool marble flooring opens onto a spacious wooden deck. This al fresco living and dining area affords panoramic views of the tropical garden and the island studded seascape beyond.

The elevated aspect of the house and the open tropical design style allow the property to breath with natural air currents and sea breezes contributing to a sense of relaxation and spaciousness. Air-conditioning is only provided in the more enclosed areas of the property.

At the rear of the living room area, one wing opens to an opulent mirrored dining room serviced by two kitchens, one western Mediterranean in style and one Thai style.

The opposite wing is where the games room can be found, furnished with Chinese antiques and a full-sized snooker table.

One floor up the master bedroom with en-suite bathroom has an emperor size bed and is of cathedral like proportions with exposed wooden beams and romantic lighting controllable according to the mood of the occupants. Stunning views take in the limestone karsks of Phang Nga Bay including the now famous "James Bond" island. The master bedroom area is provided with fan cooling only, as in its elevated position natural cool airflows eliminate the need for air-conditioning.

The smaller second bedroom with en-suite bathroom and air-conditioning is next door, facing southwest views of the island landscape can be enjoyed.

The top floor is home to the third bedroom, also with en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning and views out across the island.

Leisure Activities
Enjoyment of sun and sea together with exotic sightseeing are probably the principle activity guests enjoy.

Sailing, canoeing, snorkelling, diving in sun-sparkling aquamarine waters, exploring coral reefs and mangroves or simply sitting on white sands watching the local fishermen go by in their traditional wooden longtail boats are just a few of the many options. For the more adventurous further afield sailing or diving trips can be arranged.

Canoeing enthusiasts can enjoy exploring the many sea-caves in the limestone karsks of Phang Nga Bay and meandering through the mangroves. For anglers, the shallow reefs around Koh Naka and other small Phuket off-shore islands are home to species such as mangrove jackfish, sea bass, and barracuda; plenty of light-tackle game-fishing is within easy reach using the provided 17 ft sports-fisher boat. Trips can be also be arranged to deeper waters where tiger-sharks, marlin, dorado, tuna, sailfish, and kingmackerel can be found depending on the season.

Farther afield, in the Andaman Sea off the north west coast of Phuket, trips to the stunning Similan or Surin Islands, bordering the Burmese coast are available.

Golfers are also well catered for with four excellent courses within 45 minutes of the jetty at Ao Po.

Villa Rental Details

• Up to 6 persons may stay.
• 3 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms
• 3 King size Beds, 1 Crib
• Minimum Let is one week.
• Staff: 2 Domestic, (housekeeping and laundry) can undertake food and beverage shopping and cooking upon request (food and alcoholic beverages are an additional cost to be paid locally)
• General maintenance and gardening staff also act as boat crew and provide transport to and from the island.
• On-call manager is available to assist and arrange excursions etc.
• Rental pricing includes provision of a 17ft sports boat for island transfers and fishing. (Fuel is charged at cost). Only competent persons will be permitted to use the sports boat unaccompanied by staff.

Facilities

• Dining room and large decked outdoor dining area
• Jacuzzi (indoor and outdoor)
• Kitchen x 2 (Mediterranean and Thai style)
• Swimming pool
• Snooker table (full-size)
• Sauna / Massage and relaxation area
• Telecommunications - hand phone only
• Telescope
• Tropical gardens TV (Satellite receiver) / CD Player / VCR / Radio

  

  Back to Luxury Nature Villas