Koh Lanta, ThailandKantiang Bay
The Houben Hotel
Minimalist cliffside pavilions
Kantiang Bay Koh Lanta, Thailand
Opened
2010
Price
$$
Rated for
Design Wellness ResortOutside the door
Minimalist cliffside pavilions
Fifteen concrete pavilions climb a jungle cliffside, trading beachfront bustle for elevated views across the Andaman Sea.
What it’s good at
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Here on a hillside overlooking the coast of Koh Lanta, the Andaman Sea is the star of the show — beaches are nice, but we all know elevated views are the best views.
Somewhere quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
The sands of Kantiang Bay and its small village are a short walk down the hill.
1 of 7
The rooms
All fifteen rooms look out across the sea. Standalone Privilege Suites add private outdoor jetted tubs on the cliff edge.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Bright red tiles line the infinity pool and adjoining whirlpool, set high on the cliff above the Andaman Sea.
Red Alert Bar & Restaurant
Tables sit under glowing red pendant lights, with an evening menu of local seafood and Belgian comfort dishes.
How it began
Belgian businessman Walter Houben built the property in 2010 so his daughter could live and run a hotel in Thailand.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.