Knai Bang Chatt is a collection of serene villas set around a salt-water infinity pool, right next to the Gulf of Thailand shoreline. But this is a hotel which is not really about its beach, but rather the off-beat style and sense of exclusivity which emits from this boutique hideaway. This place is perfect for those wanting to recapture a sense of how Kep may have felt in its stylish heyday.

The three villas were built by protégés of the famous Cambodian architect Vann Molyvann, who in turn was a pupil of the world-renowned Le Corbusier, considered ‘the’ pioneer of modern architecture. They have been recently renovated (2012) and comprise of only 11 distinct rooms; intimate, stripped back, luxury and with a simple castaway wood trim. They are gorgeous.

There are no phones, TVs or fridges – instead for entertainment each has a large terrace providing breathtaking views of the sea and nearby islands. You can recharge in the peace and quiet of the reading room or in the shade of a palm tree. Perhaps in a hammock or on a four-poster bed on the private seafront area or just relax by the pool. Indeed, this pool is definitely a better swimming option than the beach – whilst Knai Bang Chatt is right on the water, the beach here is not for swimming.

In addition to the resort restaurant the Sailing Club next door offers great dining, cocktails as well as water sports with catamarans, a speedboat and kayaks.

This French managed hotel offers relaxing yoga and meditation sessions, shiatsu massages. The resort also focuses on giving something back to their staff and besides giving then decent accommodation and relatively good salaries they teach them different skills and languages.