Six Senses Resort

A laid-back vibe and focus on nature reign at Cambodia’s first Six Senses resort.

There are places you go to get away from it all, and there are places you go to genuinely get away from it all. Six Senses Resort on the private island of Ko Krabey is the latter. Despite being just a 15-minute transfer from the Cambodian mainland by private launch, it feels utterly secluded and totally serene, the loudest sounds lapping waves and birdsong. Opening in March 2019, this is Six Senses’ first property in Cambodia and follows the brand’s blueprint for sustainable luxury with a personal touch.

At the island’s dock, smiling staff, including our own GEM (guest entertainment manager) are waiting to transport us by golf buggy to our accommodation. The 40 free-standing villas are dotted across the gently sloping hillside, well-spaced and

discreetly camouflaged beneath the island’s lush green canopy. All are sea-facing, ours just a few steps from a small beach where a hammock beneath a shady tree beckons.

With an Asia-meetsScandinavia design aesthetic, the glass-fronted villas have water or jungle views (even from the gloriously deep bath tub). Bifold doors open to a sitting area with sofa, fridge, coffee machine and bar.

Outside a generous deck with comfortable umbrellashaded lounges leads to an infinity plunge pool.

Like others in the Six Senses portfolio, wellness is a key feature of the resort and a visit to the spa, at the island’s highest point is definitely prescribed (tip: get a buggy lift there). It’s hushed and lush, with a maze of fragrantly scented rooms housing spas, steam rooms and massage beds.

On the spa’s rooftop is the open-sided yoga shala with mediative views over the water to nearby islands.

Of the resort’s two restaurants, Aha, overlooking the main pool is the more casual. The other, ‘Tree,’ with an upmarket, romantic ambience specialises in Khmer and South-East Asian cuisine.

At sundown, guests start to mill about the terrace bar, waiting for mother nature’s free show – sunset over the gulf of Thailand – so outrageously beautiful it’s hard not to applaud.

Rates start from US$663 (about A$956) per night.