Beyond Kanda BuurivsBanyan Tree Samui
Both hotels are recommended by travel writers. On balance, Banyan Tree Samui scores significantly higher than Novotel Samui Resort Chaweng Beach Kandaburi. Banyan Tree Samui comes in at 84 with praise from 7 reviews such as Oyster, Lonely Planet and Condé Nast Traveler.
Beyond Kanda Buuri
20 Moo 2 Chaweng-Chongmon Road, Chaweng, Koh Samui 84320, Thailand
From $100/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Free Breakfast
- Shuttle Bus
- Laundry Service
Frommer's
"This upscale low-rise resort is part of the Kata Group and sits right on the north Chaweng seafront, among tropical vegetation and lotus ponds." Full review
Lonely Planet
"At the end of a small lane at the north end of Hat Chaweng, Papillon takes its name from the giant butterflies that flutter around in the dense resort garden."
Fodor's
"Vaguely Balinese in design, this classy boutique hotel makes use of dark woods—often as a stunning contrast against stark white or shimmering gold." Full review
Oyster
Upscale
"Many guests are drawn to the upscale Novotel Samui Resort Chaweng Beach Kandaburi by the size of its 181 modern rooms -- especially the huge bathrooms with deep tubs and rainfall showers." Full review
Banyan Tree Samui
99/9 Moo 4, Lamai Beach, Maret, Ko Samui 84310, Thailand
From $360/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Free Breakfast
- Shuttle Bus
Jetsetter
"It’s not often that this travel writer gets picked up at the airport by a Mercedes. But it was my first indication of the impressive details that set Banyan Tree Samui apart." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler
"The party-happy sands of Chaweng are just over the ridgeline to the north of Banyan Tree’s private, palm-lined bay, part of a hidden valley on the eastern shore of Koh Samui." Full review
Star Service
"Built on a steep hill, like the superior Four Seasons, this resort sprawls its villas down the slope toward the waterfront with exceptional views along the way." Full review
i
Ask for units 1 through 4 in this category, even though the staff is shy about providing the resort map and promising certain villas.
Rough Guide
"Occupying a steep-sided, landscaped valley, with towering views of Chaweng from the lobby bar, Banyan Tree provides the height of luxury in its beautiful, stilted pool villas."
Oyster
Luxury
"The 88-villa Banyan Tree Samui is an intimate, ultra-luxury property that draws those seeking an exclusive taste of the high life." Full review
i
However, those wishing to explore the island can request free shuttle service to nearby towns.
The Telegraph
9.0
"The Banyan Tree Samui is a world of its own." Full review
Fodor's
"Surrounding the beach are the 88 stunning villas, poking discretely out of the mountains, set against lush forest, and waiting for the morning sun to hit them." Full review
Lonely Planet
"Phuket’s most prestigious address has set up a sister property along the secluded northern sands of Lamai." Full review
Michelin Guide
"This hotel occupies its coastline in style — with 78 villas nestled in the hills overlooking a private inlet, it’s a self-contained ecosystem of refinement...each spacious villa boasts a plunge pool" Full review
Travel + Leisure
"If you want a full resort experience, I like Banyan Tree Samui for its private beach and spectacular rooms.""