Mountain Resort Koh Lipe

Built on a hill above a gorgeous beach, the Mountain Resort offers some of the best views on Koh Lipe. The resort is big, but its 105 rooms are housed in dozens of small, two-story buildings scattered throughout the grounds, allowing for a somewhat intimate feel. Rows of pines and palm trees dot the gardens, and there are vast lawns that offer plenty of space to unwind. Common spaces have been designed to make the most of the views, with simple decor that doesn't try to compete with the outside, and huge wall-to-wall windows that bring the outdoors in.

The hotel itself falls squarely into the mid-range category, with few luxuries (plus some maintenance issues) and a simplistic design throughout -- but the vibe is laid-back and relaxing, and rates are average for this type of hotel in Koh Lipe. In addition, the Mountain Resort features a pool, which not all mid-range properties have, and freebies such as shuttle service to bars and restaurants on popular Walking Street add value. Though families are welcome (there is a kiddy pool and a number of two-bedroom Family Bungalows), most guests here are couples looking to get away from it all. Travelers seeking something more upscale may want to compare rates at the Idyllic Concept Resort, which features two pools, modern rooms with attractive bathrooms, and a good location on Sunrise Beach. 

The hotel is located on the norther tip of Koh Lipe, a quiet area known for its gorgeous stretch of sand, known as Sunrise Beach. This is an excellent spot for snorkeling, and there is little foot traffic due to the limited accommodation and dining options in the immediate vicinity, which makes it quieter than the nearby Sunset Beach. Though the most popular tourist areas on the island are within walking distance, the heat and humidity can be challenging for those not used to the weather, and most guests choose to take moped-taxis to move around. The hotel provides free shuttle service every evening to Walking Street, a bustling lane lined with restaurants and bars. Koh Lipe is not the most easily accessible island: getting there requires a flight to Hat Yai, a two-hour bus or taxi ride to the Pak Bara pier, and a two-hour ferry transfer to the island. 

The hotel‘s 105 rooms are divided into five categories, ranging from smallish Garden units to large Ocean Pool Villas. All are decorated in a low-frills style with few ornaments, but the higher the category, the nicer the room. Entry-level units are somewhat basic and bland, with older dark floor tiles, bare walls, and generic laminate furniture that’s starting to show some age. Bungalows and villas have gleaming white floors, recessed lighting in ceiling moldings, and a few cute accents such as silk-like throw pillows and bed runners with Thai-inspired motifs. Honeymoon Suites (also known as Jacuzzi Suites with Ocean Views) are the most stylish of all, thanks to dark wooden floors, wood paneling, and cute wooden furniture with some local flair.  

All rooms are air-conditioned and feature small flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges stocked with two bottles of water (replenished daily free of charge), safes, electric kettles, and hairdryers. Free Wi-Fi ranges from spotty to non-existent in rooms. Bathroom are rather rudimentary, with wet room-style showers in the middle of the space that make the entire floor slippery, plain white tiles throughout, and basic toiletries in wall-mounted containers. Bathrooms in Honeymoon Suites have sunken jetted tubs and separate rain showers. Additionally, all rooms have large windows and furnished terraces -- most with at least partial sea views. Ocean Pool Villas have private pools with panoramic sea views.  

The beach is the most outstanding feature at Mountain Resort. It is the northern tip of quiet Sunrise Beach, offering clear waters, fine sand, and many trees. It is a great spot for snorkeling, and gear can be rented -- along with sea kayaks and fishing gear -- at reception. The pool is also a highlight here, with a spacious deck around it, padded loungers and umbrellas, a kiddy section, and expansive sea and mountain views. Located by the beach, Mountain Restaurant receives more praise for its views than for its atmosphere or food, but it is a decent spot to taste some Thai cuisine or get a drink and a snack. A varied breakfast buffet that includes hot and cold options is offered free every morning at the restaurant. 

The hotel has 24-hour water and electricity supply, which is not always available in other resorts on the island.