Discover rare species in the National Park, bathe in natural Hot Springs and visit the Tiger Cave Temple

Whilst guests aren’t relaxing in the hotels lagoon-style swimming pool, the largest in Thailand, the skilful Sofitel concierge team at Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra can now arrange a Rainforest Discovery Tour. Guests will be taken by private transfer to the Khao Nor Chur Chi National Park, a unique lowland forest rich in bio-diversity with a nature trail and limestone foot paths which lead to the beautiful Krabi Emerald Pool - a must-visit spot in Southern Thailand. The journey to this crystal-clear pool begins with a nature trail, where guests have the chance to spot rare plant and animal species in the tropical rainforest covered in spectacular flora and fauna indigenous to Thailand, before reaching the Emerald Pool for a swim in the delightfully warm waters.

For the next part of the tour, relaxation-seekers can rest in the natural ‘hot tubs’ or the Krabi Hot Springs, renowned for their healing properties from water channelled from deep rooted thermal springs located in volcanic chambers. Bubbling with rare and healing natural mineral salts and with temperatures reaching 35-40°, the Hot Spring waterfalls provide a natural hypnotherapy bath, perfect for soothing muscles and promoting relaxation and rejuvenation following the nature trek.

After enjoying a delicious, authentic Thai lunch in a local restaurant chosen on the day, travellers will be taken to admire one of Thailand’s finest and most sacred spots, the Tiger Cave Temple. This famous meditation centre invites guests on a challenging but rewarding hike of the limestone cliff tower overlooking the Andaman Sea, to marvel at the iconic golden Buddha statue integrated within intricate Buddhist-inspired architecture. Guests can admire the ‘Buddhas footprint’ that lies on the terrace, panoramic views of verdant rainforests and feed playful monkeys on the way.

Following a day of exploration, guests can retreat to their suite at Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra, a family-friendly oasis renowned for its timeless, colonial elegance and Thai hospitality, with 276 rooms and suits exuding a French colonial feel and private balconies.

- The Krabi Rainforest Discovery Tour starts at 1,650 THB for children, 3,300 THB for adults or 9,500 THB for a private tour for two. Price includes a visit to the Emerald Pool, Hot Spring waterfalls and Tiger Cave Temple along with insurance, lunch, national park fee, towels, snacks, canapés, soft drinks and round trip transfers.