SIGHTSEEING

Ang Thong Marine National Park - Ang Thong National Park otherwise known as the 'Golden Basin' lies off the North West coast of Koh Samui and consists of 42 stunning limestone islands, covered in rainforest with dramatic rock formations. The numerous small coves are perfect for snorkelling especially from March to October when the water is crystal clear and Ko Mae Ko is home to a beautiful emerald coloured saltwater lake. There is a considerable amount of wildlife inhabiting the islands including the Asian long-tailed monkey (langur), hair-nosed otters, pacific reef egrets, white-bellied sea eagles, ashy drongos, tortoises, sea turtles, lizards and pythons. Ang Thong National Park makes a wonderful day trip from any of the islands in the Gulf and there are many local agents who can arrange trips for you.

Grandfather & Grandmother rocks - These rocks at the south of Lamai beach have been shaped over millions of years by wind and water to resemble human reproductive organs. Because of their shape, the rocks are seen as strong fertility symbols, and the local myth has it that these rocks are the origin of the Mui people.

Namuang Waterfalls - The Namuang Waterfalls are located 10 km south from Nathon at Ban Thurian. There are 2 waterfalls. Na Muang one is 18 meter high and can be reached by vehicle. Na Muang two is the most spectacular waterfall on the island at about 80 meters high. It can only be reached by a short jungle walk.

Wat Phra Yai & Big Buddha - This temple is the home of Koh Samui's most famous landmark: the Big Buddha. Most visitors come to marvel at the sheer size and beauty of this remarkable statue at some point during their holiday. Visible from several kilometers away and even from the air when arriving on or leaving the island, the 12 meter tall golden image is unmissable.

Bohuput - A quaint air of bohemia still lingers at Fisherman's Village, once a favoured backpacker haunt and now one of the most perfectly preserved places on the island. Take a leisurely stroll down the street lined with old wooden Chinese shop-houses, where tiny stores sell quirky knick-knacks.

Mummified Monk: Luong Por Daeng was a highly respected monk when he died, over 20 years ago. He died during meditation and his body was naturally preserved. Today, he can still be seen in the exactly the same position. His body is on display in Kunaram Temple.

We use a well established tour company in Koh Samui to arrange all our excursion which we book in advance of your holiday. They can tailor make any trip and as well as taking guests to the sites listed above, they are also keen to promote lesser visited places of interest such as Laemsor Pagoda, Koh Samui's Butterfly Garden and the Old Teak House at Ban Thaley.

Tours start from as little as £10 per hour to £60 for a full 8 hour day, and include a fully air-conditioned vehicle and English speaking driver. Why not add an elephant trek into your day excursion or perhaps take part of the day to explore the island by mountain bike. The Na Muang Safari Park (+66 (0) 7742 4098) operates rides and hosts monkey and crocodile shows.

SPORT & ACTIVITIES

Diving - Ko Samui offers high-quality diving where the warm, clear water draws large scholls of tropical fish, manta rays, and the awe-inspiring whale shark. This wealth of aquatic life combined with good visibility makes for fabulous diving and snorkeling. The most famous dive site in the area is Sail Rock, North of Ko Pha Ngan (approx 1 hr from Koh Samui), which has an 18m natural rock chimney swimthrough and is a good place to see whale sharks. Other sites can be found in the North of Anthong Marine National Park and close to the Gulf's diving mecca Ko Tao, which has 21 sites off its shores. A day's diving from Samui should get to two to three sites.

We use an experienced dive centre on Koh Samui, who can offer all levels of PADI training, as well as fun dives and snorkelling tours. For prices please contact us on escape@fleewinter.com where we can provide pricing and book courses in advance of your holiday.

Thai Boxing - Thailand's national sport, Muay Thai boxing, is showcased at Chaweng Stadium - the largest in the country - and offers an unforgettable evening's entertainment. There are even training schools available if you fancy your fists.

Elephant Trekking - In the jungle covered hills of Koh Samui you can go Elephant trekking to access areas unreachable by vehicle or foot. Standard treks last approx 30mins although longer experinecs can be arranged. You will trek through the jungle to one of Koh Samui's waterfalls, admiring the scenery and wildlife.

Tree top climbing - For the even more adventurous, Canopy Adventures in Bophut can take you on a treetop-to-treetop tour of the jungle, swinging along 500 metres of cable (+66 (0) 7741 4150).

Golf - Koh Samui has one professional standard golf course which was opened in 2003. Situated in the hills above Maenam it is a spectacular course which traverses a mountain range and coconut plantation and offers magnificent views of the ocean and beach and beyond to Koh Phangan. The course requires a reasonable degree of proficiency and is not recommended for beginners. Green fees are around 3000 baht (approx £45).