Positioned on the quiet and undeveloped Thong Ching Bay, this resort provides a relaxing alternative to the busy concrete developments going on further down the coast. Though only two years old, the resort and it's gardens have already matured nicely, and it's a pleasure to see that it has been designed to fit into its surroundings rather than overpowering them.

There is a range of accomodation available, from stand-alone huts with separate private bathrooms to a large 4 bedroom cottage, and all of these have been made in traditional Thai style using wood and natural air-cooling rather than relying on air-conditioning. And, by and large, the construction is pretty gorgeous if you're into that sort of thing. Though there is some use of faux-wood panels at the back of some of the structures, the natural wooden floors, doors, steps and balconies really are a delight.

Which, of course, you pay for. The small rooms are small for 1,000 baht a night and a big party would be needed to make good use of the 7,000 baht cottage. That said, the restaurants is quite reasonably priced with simple dishes and 'with rice' curries, as well as appetisers, Thai-Italian food, more expensive seafood specials, and the quality is more than acceptable.

The main draw here is the absence of unnecessary distractions. There is a television in the restaurant, though you can choose to eat on your balcony or at one of the salas on the beachside, and there is internet access and daytrips available to see the sights of Khanom. But come evening time, you're surrounded by nature and peace and quiet. And that's why this resort is worth looking into if you want somewhere a bit different.