The Datai Langkawi

This is the resort that turned Langkawi into a bona fide luxury destination when it debuted back in 1993; a Kerry Hill–designed classic of low-slung, timber-clad buildings embraced by ancient rain forest. Now, following a US$60 million overhaul that kept its doors closed for a year, The Datai is making waves once again. Didier Lefort, the French architect and designer responsible for the interiors the first time around, was brought back to update the rooms and villas in line with their original spirit, for which he reinstated brass-studded wooden panels and added freestanding composite-stone tubs. Three new pool villas have joined the mix, as has the Datai Estate, a private five-bedroom complex. The gym has been relocated to a beach-side pavilion; the revamped spa sports a Bastien Gonzalez mani-pedi studio; and the beach club has been expanded and improved. Nature-loving guests will appreciate The Datai’s enhanced menu of activities — everything from reef walks and kayaking to bug hunts for kids. Resident naturalist Irshad Mobarak now works out of a purpose-built nature center that features a small laboratory and a “tea corner” for herbal infusions. Also new is a nature trail that winds through the 26-hectare property, complete with a mangrove boardwalk and an observation deck nestled high in the trunk of a strangler fig. — 60-4/950-0500; thedatai.com; doubles from US$610