Unique, Enchanting, Sustainable – Welcome to Keemala on Phuket, Thailand
Waking up to the sounds of the tropical jungle and the smell of fresh croissants. A combination that at first sounds as if it would never work together is part of the morning ritual during a stay at Keemala in Thailand. The unique resort, lovingly referred to as a villa wonderland, is difficult to explore in just one day. However, we will try anyway and thus introduce the sustainable luxury hotel in Phuket.
Welcome to Keemala
Perched above Kamala Village overlooking the Andaman Sea, the villas of Keemala nestle into the hills of Phuket. During construction, care was taken not to interfere with the natural contours of the landscape. The forest was also preserved as much as possible, which means that guests can now wander through the original jungle between the villas.
Sustainable Architecture inspired by Phuket
The four different types of villas are based on four clans that once populated a fictitious old Phuket. Each of these clans brings its own values and characteristics, which are reflected in the architecture and furnishings of the villas.
Preserving Phuket's traditions and culture is important to them, the siblings and owners of the Keemala Tarn and Note Somnam tell us, as are family values. The Somnams are a traditional family of the island who have established themselves in the local hotel and tourism industry. With the Keemala, the siblings are pursuing the goal of making tourism on Phuket more sustainable and offering guests an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
And the 38 private villas provide the perfect haven. The architecture combines natural materials, plenty of glass to bring natural light into the rooms and traditional elements that create a connection to the culture on Phuket and the mystique developed for the Keemala around the four clans. Plus: each villa has its own pool.
Start the Day Slowly and Consciously
Back to the smell of fresh croissants. They are made at the Keemala according to an original French recipe and served every morning for breakfast. Guests can either visit the Mala Restaurant or order an in-villa breakfast. This is served on traditional pintos, three- to six-tiered trays on which the elements of the breakfast are arranged. This way, you can start the day with your favorite person at your own pace and listen to the sounds of the jungle from your private terrace.
Active and Mindful - A Day at the Keemala
The Thai hotel's focus is strongly on mindfulness and wellness. This is evident in the way it treats nature and its guests, along with the individual amenities that distinguish the Keemala. Guests are encouraged to take time for themselves, for example during yoga sessions or personal fitness classes. Muay Thai, a traditional Thai martial art, is also part of the wellness programme.
In addition, the "Enchanted Forest" that surrounds the Keemala invites guests to wander. Numerous secluded retreats and hideaways are ideal for togetherness or personal, tranquil moments.
Tip: Get married in the Enchanted Forest
Colourful, vibrant, unique - nothing is more special than a wedding in Keemala's Enchanted Forest. Experienced wedding planners design the dream wedding together with the guests so that no wishes remain unfulfilled on the big day and the happy couple does not have to worry about a thing. In addition to the vows (according to Western or Thai traditions), an Enchanted Forest wedding also includes a Spiritual Blessing Ceremony, which makes the intimate celebration even more beautiful and unique.
Farm-To-Table and Enchanted Garden
In addition to the jungle, guests can explore the garden that supplies the luxury hotel's kitchen with fresh vegetables, seasonal fruit, herbs and mushrooms, and see the farm-to-table approach for themselves. The animals, such as the rescued water buffalo or the ducks, are always happy to receive visitors as well.
Around 60 percent of the food used in the kitchen now comes from the gardens. Most of the remaining produce comes from the surrounding region.
The popular afternoon tea, which can be served in your own villa on request, is no exception. The traditional flavours of Phuket are found here in the form of bite-sized morsels consisting of freshly harvested herbs, vegetables and fruit. Whether classic, vegetarian or vegan, afternoon tea can be adapted for all dietary preferences.
Between Tradition and Modernity: Mala Spa
Holistic wellness is at the heart of the Mala Spa. The focus here is not only on relieving physical ailments of the guests, but also addressing psychological and spiritual concerns as well. Traditional Thai healing methods are combined with modern beauty and massage treatments and natural plant extracts. The Mala Spa's signature treatments also reflect the mythical clans and their philosophies. Couples' treatment rooms with sauna, steam bath and outdoor rain shower offer guests a unique and private experience.
New in 2023: Forest Bathing Retreat in the Enchanted Forest
It has been proven time and again that forest bathing has therapeutic and healing effects. At the Keemala, guided forest bathing in the tropical jungle is combined with meditation, treatments and other moments of indulgence and relaxation. The three-day retreat is perfect for "recharging the batteries" and reconnecting with yourself.
The grand, indulgent end to the day: a gourmet dinner
Although the Mala Restaurant is in itself a special place for dinner, the team at Keemala takes it to the next level with Destination Dining. At special locations, a selected Signature Dinner for Two is served, consisting of five courses of your cuisine of choice: Western, Thai, Indian, Seafood and more. Dine by candlelight on the rooftop and enjoy the view of the sea or spend the evening together at the foot of the Tree Towers in a hidden hideaway - a magical end to a unique stay.
Tip: Traditional Southern Thai Cuisine
Samrab Pak Tai takes guests on a journey into the culinary world of Southern Thailand. The local specialties are served for two at a location of choice, including in their own private villa. This allows guests to enjoy the regional flavors in intimate togetherness.
More information about the Thai luxury resort and its green initiatives can be found on the dedicated microsite at www.greenpearls.com. You can read the profile of Tarn and Note Somnam here.