Having reopened on 1 September 2023 following a three-month closure, Aman’s first resort celebrates 35 years with a renewed energy, revealing an extensive renovation ranging from a Kengo Kuma designed restaurant to a private Spa House, alongside new experiences.
Promising seclusion and tranquillity in nature, the iconic flagship resort’s standalone Pavilions have all received a meticulous reconfiguration, enhancing their Thai design heritage. Interior updates include new Makha wood flooring, adding warmth and understated elegance, alongside new bathroom suites bringing a fresh and contemporary feel. Their beautiful wooden roof structures – an ode to local architecture – have also been exposed, creating lofty, vaulted ceilings for an increased sense of space and height. Outside, in the privacy of each Pavilion, balconies have been upgraded with sand wash flooring, resulting in a brighter, more inviting al fresco setting, while nine Pavilions have seen the addition of their own swimming pools with panoramic ocean views.
The resort’s array of restaurants has also diversified, introducing new dining options and relocating existing venues creating a gastronomic journey around the world. Nama, Amanpuri’s signature Japanese restaurant, finds its new home in an elevated setting atop the resort’s iconic sweeping staircase. With breathtaking views across the Andaman Sea, visionary architect Kengo Kuma imagined the new, split-level Nama space with inviting izakaya-style seating, intimate, omakase counter and central Sake Bar, showcasing some of Japan’s finest sakes. Nama serves as a year-round dining venue, allowing guests to experience the art of Japanese culinary excellence in an airy yet atmospheric setting.
For a more hands-on approach to dining, Amanpuri has launched Sushi Masterclasses providing the opportunity to experience the art of sushi-making under the expert guidance of Nama’s seasoned sushi masters. A craft of precision and skill, the experience includes selecting the finest ingredients, fish slicing techniques and hand-rolling, before enjoying the creations as a rewarding lunch.
With Nama taking up its new location, the existing beachfront space has been transformed into a new Beach Restaurant. Set to open in December 2023, the open-air oasis will return with a new interactive kitchen, lounge area and additional seating overlooking Pansea Beach. Centered around the concept of fresh Mediterranean flavours paired with crisp fine wines and champagnes, the Beach Restaurant offers the perfect spot for sundowners and laidback lunches directly on the sand. Elsewhere, the existing Sunset Terrace, Pool Terrace and Beach Terrace dining areas benefit from additional seating, creating more space, privacy and the flexibility for guests to dine at leisure.
Amanpuri’s Holistic Wellness Centre has long been a sanctuary for those seeking a positive shift, harnessing the ancient healing therapies of Thailand, as well as leading global therapeutic practices. Ever evolving its offering, Amanpuri’s renovation includes the addition of a new Spa House- a haven of holistic wellbeing fully immersed in nature. An unparalleled spa experience, the Spa House boasts unrivalled hydrotherapy facilities, a Vichy shower room, a Banya and an Infared sauna, a steam room, a cold plunge pool and indoor Jacuzzi, complemented by an outdoor lounging deck, swimming pool and a second Jacuzzi overlooking the Andaman Sea. Each experience at the Spa House is complete with a dedicated spa therapist on hand to curate bespoke treatments tailored to individual needs, with the opportunity to spend half a day or a full day relaxing in this private sanctuary.
The resort has also introduced several new wellness and fitness-related experiences. Harnessing the resort’s coastal setting, Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga returns to Amanpuri’s programme in November in addition to the Ride the Waves programme – a private surfing experience which focuses on finding balance. Taking place just 15-minutes from the resort on Bangtao Bach, idyllic waves and experienced local surfers make Amanpuri the perfect place for both beginners and those seeking to improve their technique.
Back on land, Cycling Sessions satisfy both active adventurers, the fitness focused and those seeking a full immersion into the island’s natural beauty. Venturing beyond the resort’s private peninsula, the curated route travels through picturesque villages and along scenic coastal paths, accompanied by an experienced guide who provides fascinating insights into Phuket’s rich history, culture and nature.