Mr & Mrs Smith

Along with its remoteness, the appeal of Yao Noi is its access to some of the world’s best scuba diving and snorkelling sites around Koh Phi Phi, Krabi and Phang Nga. Other water sports, such as sea-kayaking and sailing, are also readily available. Lost your water legs? Landlubbers can enjoy elephant trekking, mountain biking, hiking and rock climbing. The resort runs boats to Krabi and Phuket should you fancy shopping or sightseeing.  What you should definitely make time for, however, is a visit to the Six Senses Spa. At the long house, windows open on to lush gardens, although there’s also the option of taking a treatment in one of the salas to become fully immersed in the outdoor world. If you’ve been burning the candle at both ends, a three-and-a-half-hour Signature Yao Noi Ritual – foot soak, steam, scrub, traditional Thai massage and spicy herbal bath – will have you feeling balanced and refreshed. To burn off some calories, ask staff to arrange an aqua yoga session in your villa's pool.

Owing to its location, there isn’t much else on the island of Yao Noi. If you have a hankering for the fruity, spiciness of southern Thai food, it’s a short amble to local eateries Gai Phad Med Ma Muang, Yum Som O Goong and Gang Phed Ped Yang. Hotel staff can point you in the right direction. Phuket and its nighttime attractions are accessible by a 45-minute boat ride – although after a few days at Yao Noi, it’s unlikely that you’ll have the urge for a night out.

Yao Noi is far too laid-back for a heavy calendar of events, but there’s plenty happening in nearby Phuket throughout the year. February Set your toes tapping at the Phuket International Blues Rock Festival (www.phuketbluesfestival.com). 13–15 April Songkran, the Thai New Year, is celebrated with water fights since it’s seen as a time of cleansing and renewal. June The Phuket International Marathon (www.phuketmarathon.com) is usually run in stifling heart but, thankfully, is followed by a hearty pasta party. July Yachting on the high seas is the focus at Phuket Race Week (www.phuketraceweek.com). October Local Chinese go vegetarian amid the bustle of processions at Phuket Vegetarian Festival (www.phuketvegetarian.com). December The King's Cup Regatta (www.kingscup.com) is Asia's biggest regatta race, held in honour of the King's birthday on 5 December.