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PHUKET
A splendid, avant-garde, family-friendly boutique that pays tribute to its tin-mining history, designed by renowned architect, Bill Bensley.
Located on the northwest coast of Phuket, The Slate is just a short drive away from the airport and will take you immediately from flight to paradise, with beach access and three swimming pools to choose from.
Although the hotel is very modern, you'll notice some industrial elements incorporated throughout in paying homage to the island's tin mine history. A wander around the property will make you quickly realise how massive it is and there's something for every type of traveller. Foodies can indulge at any of the five dining options, or explore the nearby beach's local cuisine. Gym junkies will be happy to know that its onsite fitness centre is well equipped. Waiting for a sundeck chair is out of the question – there are three swimming pools, after all and one even has an in-pool bar. The spa offers traditional and modern therapies for strained guests. There are also watersport activities and archery available upon request.
There's a friendly and authentic atmosphere to the hotel and you won't find snobby staff or over-the-top luxuries here – and that's the beauty of boutiques.
The Bensley Suite
The property is comprised of suites and villas, with the smallest option, the Pearl Bed Suites spaciously spanning at 65 square metres, and coming with an oversized bathtub, balcony, and huge bedroom and bathroom. In total there are nine accommodation types, but we stayed at the glorious Bensley Suite – named after the architect visionary behind the hotel's design.
The 504 square metre beauty is spread across two floors and comes with its own swimming pool – not the plunge type, but one that you can actually do laps in. Deemed a sublime sanctuary, it sits within nature between greenery and with views of the ocean from the upstairs balcony. There's so much to love about the suite – possibly the most impressive on the lot – and it's the type of place you'll never want to, or need to, leave. There's a mini garden next to the swimming pool, sundecks and a pagoda in between one of the staircases; the other way up is via the spiral staircase (a signature in Bensley's curations, it seems). Meanwhile, the beach is literally footsteps away.
Dining
Though Black Ginger often gets the spotlight, and rightly so, we were pleasantly impressed by Rivet & Rebar – and it even became one of the highlights of Phuket island's culinary offerings overall. The gothic, neo-noir aesthetic welcomes with its cocooning Dracula chairs, though it's more of a luxury vampire enclave if we were to describe it. Aside from the intriguing decor, the food is also spectacular serving grill specialties like the grass-fed Australian black Angus tenderloin and roasted organic chicken, to be complemented with a wine of sommelier's choice.
And of course, there's the Thai restaurant that many hotel guests and non-hotel guests flock over for. Black Ginger is housed in a traditional wooden mansion which guests reach via a water raft pulled over by rope. With its old-school recipes and exquisite service, it's no wonder this restaurant has been named in the Michelin guide twice already in 2021 and 2022.
The Slate's Coqoon Spa is a haven for rest and rejuvenation. Sink into relaxation with one of its divine treatments, or book the unique "The Nest" space which is tucked amid tropical gardens and showcases a sculptural delight that embodies a fish trap.
For those looking to relax in a luxurious boutique setting that ticks all the boxes of a beachside retreat, look no further. This little gem will exceed expectations.
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Website: theslatephuket.com
Phone: +66 76 327 006 | Email: reservations@theslatephuket.com | Instagram: @TheSlatePhuket | Facebook: @TheSlatePhuket | Twitter: @TheSlatePhuket | YouTube: The Slate Phuket | TripAdvisor: The Slate Phuket | Location: The Slate Phuket, 116 Sakhu, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand