Jivana Villa Shanti

Bordering expansive white sands with the Andaman Sea gently lapping their toes, the Jivana Shanti Villas are of the privileged few to boast a genuine beach-front setting. On the west coast of Phuket, they have the most idyllic of locations.

The prestigious province of Phang Nga is revered amongst the jet-set for its pristine scenery, just 25-minutes north of Phuket International Airport but in a world of its own, the untouched stretch of Natai Beach a resplendent backdrop. Set across a generous 6,400m of grounds with 90m of unobstructed beach border, there is a unique aura to this verdant locale.

Gazing across the 25m swimming pool, six double bedrooms, large living space and ultra-contemporary entertainment room, guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to deluxe living. The open-plan design is a stroke of genius that allows a harmonious connection throughout, with the indoor connecting seamlessly to the tropical outside. Two live-in maids take care of the capacious property, while an expert chef ensures guests are perfectly catered for with his eclectic cuisine.

From the comforting surrounds of this uber-indulgent space, nothing but ocean-strewn panoramas abound, the allure of the infinity pool and decadence of swaying coconut palms a gentle reminder of the tropical bliss. Shanti translates to ‘peace’ and - with the tranquillity on offer - perfectly sums up the idyll of your vacation.

Serene fountains welcome guests on arrival, a 25m infinity pool immediately inviting them to wallow in its gentle warmth, with a shallow toddler pool for younger group members to enjoy. Additional dining and wellness pavilions are set just to one side, so whether its gourmet indulgence or therapeutic wellness one seeks, either is well within reach.

Villa Jivana Shanti is located on the soft sands of Natai Beach in the blissfully unknown province of Phang Nga – the final frontier of an untrodden Thailand. One of the upmarket Jivana Beachfront Estate properties, the extensive coconut grove gardens and bucolic surrounds are famed for their secluded splendour.

Retreat from the throngs of Phuket and enter a more isolated setting, while retaining access to the ebullience of the island. Crystal clear waters on your doorstep, no stretch is better for a gentle swim or afternoon stroll, while evening sunset displays are a delight of kaleidoscopic beauty.

At 25-minutes from Phuket International Airport, transfers are a dream for somewhere so removed. With the diversity of Phuket’s most famed golf courses and extravagant marinas also on your doorstep, life is well-lived when staying in this lavish locale.

Set across three individual pavilions, Jivana Shanti Villas boast elongated swimming pools and extensive ocean views among the modern architecture of their edifices. With the addition of a fourth pavilion housing the live-in staff, privacy is maintained, while no touch of luxury is lost.

Enter through the towering gate to the greeting of a free-flowing waterfall, the gentle trickle adding to the tranquil aura of the dwelling. A joyous family room borders the courtyard on one side: widescreen TV, DVD player and integrated sound system a delightful reprieve if the children become too boisterous. A library and games room are available for more grown up residents, while the state-of-the-art kitchen that lies opposite will attract the culinary-inclined – the reverse-osmosis filter a wonderfully contemporary offering for on-tap drinking water.

Six bedrooms are liberally spread between two separate pavilions – generous abodes of indulgent resplendence. Understated décor offset by indigenous timber furnishing creates an inimitable sense of style, while the inviting bedspreads allure guests with their promise of a warm embrace. Ensuite bathrooms ensure exclusivity for all and the fragrant frangipani elicit tropical tones throughout. Air-conditioning is a reprieve from sultrier climes, as is easy access to the infinity pool. Elegant terraces lure guests outdoors, the external black granite tubs an indulgence for two rooms.

‘The Great Room’ sits at the heart of the property – a lavish blend of living-dining in one grandiose expanse. Glass facades disappear into walls to create a seamless al fresco living experience, while a large covered deck is the perfect spot for evening aperitifs. Gaze in awe at the lush landscape: unending ocean, verdant gardens and an infinity pool that merges with the scenery - this is a magnificent sight to behold.

The pool itself is a 25m behemoth that spans two levels. An inviting black tiled ‘adults pool’ flows freely into shallower depths more suited to children. Day-beds and sun-loungers overflow with super-soft cushions, while a dining sala at one end is the perfect retreat after halcyon days in the sun. As the sun drops beyond the horizon, drift to the beach-front sala for enticing cocktails set to an intoxicating sunset, or seek the impeccable intimacy of a mercurial massage or yoga session.

If one must connect, Wi-Fi is gladly offered throughout the grounds.

The most peaceful of settings, Villa Jivana Shanti exudes tranquillity on all sides with its expansive 90m beach border the most inspired of garden drop-offs. Set in the ultimate laid-back neighbourhood, the property boasts untouched sceneries unencumbered by crowds, so guests can reside in exclusivity and enjoy the paradisiacal beach as if it were their own.

If exploration is on the cards, the marina is easily reached and offers boat charters for marine voyage. The enchanting limestone islets of Phang Nga delight all who visit, while James Bond Island is a highlight for any who ventures into such a spellbinding seascape.