Knai Bang Chatt, Kep, Cambodia - Explore & Book

"After stumbling off the beaten track on these beautiful modernist villas - built by pupils of Vann Molyvann, (Minister of Urbanism and protégé of Le Corbusier) - the now owners snapped them up, converted and subtly added new houses to them, with an impeccable sense of when enough is enough. The result is a serene but visually stunning resort on the Cambodian coast.The renovation brings out the individual character of the light, airy and perfectly proportioned houses full of elegant rooms, with their playful rhythm of geometric shapes, ship’s railings and combination of warm natural stone and concrete austerity. A great deal of thought has gone into what may look like the simple décor of the resort as a whole. The trees along the seafront have been kept from the original mangrove - gnarled ficus branches now hold hammocks while almond trees shade the reclining platforms on the lawn - and their interplay of shapes and shades of green are very attractive. An infinity pool, tiled in muted turquoise, leads on from the terrace and Khmer restaurant to the boathouse bar with its long jetty, which adds timeless, maritime charm. A true gem. Highs Three beautifully converted modernist villas from Cambodia’s 50s heyday, matched with new houses built by a contemporary French architectLovely minimalist rooms and generous communal areas, with plenty of relaxation space plus an infinity pool with lots of loungers and spaceCharming Cambodian staff, well managed by JoffreyA sailing school with catamarans, surfboards and waterskis for hire; the hotel also arranges excursions and boat tripsExcellent food and cooking courses; plus those after private romance can dine on the rooftop or on the jetty Lows Not a lot in the way of entertainment in the vicinity - Kep is a quiet beach town. However, the area is on the up so this may soon changeNo real beach by the hotel (it's more muddy then sandy); even from the jetty it’s a bit of a walk till you reach swimmable depth" - Nicolas Buchele