Earlier this year, Hideaways Member Robert Swartling travelled to the Land of Smiles with his family. Here, he shares some of the highlights from their stay at Santisook, Phuket, from favourite beaches and restaurants to the simple pleasures of villa life.

"This is not AI" - Robert Swartling, on the beauty of Santisook's view

Set in the verdant foothills of Phuket's southwest coast, Santisook is a villa designed for those moments when time slows down and the azure horizon stretches endlessly before you.

Santisook is an auspicious name in Thailand, meaning tranquil and peaceful. From its elevated position, the villa looks out across the Gulf of Thailand; a shifting panorama of sea, distant islands and lush tropical greenery that changes colour throughout the day.

Within the Katamanda Estate

Santisook sits within the exclusive Katamanda estate, known for its landscaped gardens, elevated setting and sweeping ocean views framed by tropical forested hills.

The gated compound is staffed by 24-hour security, with guards stationed at the entrance and regular patrols throughout the grounds, creating a peaceful and private environment for guests.

Members staying at Santisook can also enjoy the estate's clubhouse facilities, which include a well-equipped gym, an outdoor swimming pool, table tennis, an artificial grass tennis court, lounge spaces and a conference room.

"The compound itself is beautiful," Robert notes. "It's elevated, surrounded by tropical greenery and incredibly peaceful. From the villa and pool area you get generous ocean views across the forested hills."

A villa designed for gathering

The villa itself blends charming Thai architecture with expansive indoor-outdoor living. Wide terraces, open-plan spaces, spread across three generous floors, and five beautifully appointed bedrooms make it an ideal retreat for families or groups of friends travelling together.

"The villa easily houses a large group," Robert explains. "The family room alone can sleep six people, and overall it can comfortably accommodate up to fourteen. It's perfect for travelling with extended family or friends."

Yet what many members remember most is the effortless hospitality.

A dedicated in-house team ensures every stay feels relaxed and welcoming, from attentive service to authentic Thai cuisine prepared in the villa.

"The service from Oi, Party and the team is fantastic," Robert says. "And the Thai cooking in the villa is exceptional - some of the best food we had during our stay."

Exploring Phuket

While Santisook's pool terrace makes it tempting to stay put, Phuket offers plenty to explore nearby.

Hat Nai Han Beach, around a 15-minute taxi ride away, is one of Robert's favourite spots. "It's a marvellous beach," he says. "Beautiful water and a very relaxed atmosphere."

For lunch or sunset drinks, he recommends Rock Salt on the beach.

"It's a great setting with very good food. According to Oi, it's also Stefan Edberg's favourite restaurant."

Closer to the villa, just a 15-minute walk away, Kata Rocks offers a stylish seafront setting for dinner and drinks.

Evenings at Santisook

Back at the villa, evenings often became the highlight of the stay.

On their final night, the team prepared an unforgettable barbecue feast.

"Party and the team organised an outrageous barbecue for us," Robert recalls. "Lobsters, shrimps, fish - it was incredible."

Moments like these are what make Santisook memorable.

"I really think Santisook is a marvellous villa," Robert says. "Once you've experienced the pool area and the setting, it's very hard to leave."

With its tranquil hillside setting, attentive service, and access to the facilities of the Katamanda estate, Santisook offers a very special way to experience Phuket; one that many members find themselves returning to again and again.

Discover Santisook and the experiences waiting for you in Phuket.