The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi

The resort occupies a wooded promontory on the island's southwest coast, just 10 minutes from Langkawi's airport (itself an hour's flight from Kuala Lumpur). It's flanked by unbroken forest in the shadow of Mount Machinchang, creating an isolated, beachfront enclave that's perfect for fly-and-flop breaks. Attractions such as mangrove tours, a cable car and zip-line trail, and colourful night markets, all lie within a 15-minute drive.

Mother Nature combines with traditional Malay, Siamese and indigenous influences such as pitched roofs, vertical lines, ceiling fans and intricately carved screens to create a highly individual look for Malaysia's first Ritz-Carlton. There's no sign of the stuffiness that's sometimes synonymous with the brand, and everything is built to be in harmony with the forest. Trees and vegetation provide natural screens to lessen the resort's visual impact, making it feel smaller than it is. The overall result is a thrilling sense of jungle escapism - albeit sanitised with air-conditioning and round-the-clock room service.

Ritz-Carlton's service ethic aims to "fulfil guests' unexpressed wishes". This translates into enthusiastic staff who can't do enough to help, taking pains to remember guests' names and deliver thoughtful, personal touches (such as cleaning my shoes after a rainforest hike).

Standout facilities include the adults-only infinity pool (perfect for sunset cocktails) and a truly one-of-a-kind spa with treatment pavilions inspired by "bubu" fish traps. Other activities include complimentary watersports, tennis, yoga, gym and nature walks, or handicraft classes (additional cost).

Hidden in the jungle are blocks containing the 90 Rainforest Suites, each with private terrace and living/dining area. These cleverly versatile, generously sized rooms have elegant Baba Nyonya screens and moveable partitions to break up the flowing space. Classy interiors combining wood, rattan and quality fabrics with avant-garde design and original artworks give the feel of urban living in the rainforest. Light pouring in through full-height windows is suffused with green by the leafy environment, complementing the bathrooms' green-veined marble vanities. Similar décor prevails in the 29 villas, which also come with private pools and choice of forest, beach or oceanfront settings.

A truly exceptional breakfast buffet of Western, Indian, Chinese and Malay flavours is presented in Langkawi Kitchen, a beautifully designed, elevated space that emulates a traditional longhouse. Highlights include noodle soups, punchy curries and nasi lemak (plus omelettes and pastries), all washed down with teh tarik (a sweet, milky tea).

The Malaysian dishes served here in the evenings, however, are somewhat less memorable. Similarly underwhelming are the burgers and club sandwiches at Beach Grill, though Horizon's poolside Thai cuisine fares better. Even Hai Yan, an over-water Chinese fine-dining venue with Michelin-starred chef, underperforms, (though its clay-pot chicken and wok-fried lobster with honey glaze are excellent).

Double rooms from 1,800 Malaysian ringgit (£327) in low season; and from 2,200 Malaysian ringgit (£400) in high. Breakfast included. Free Wi-Fi.

Two Deluxe rooms and one of the villas are wheelchair accessible. Buggies are on permanent standby to ferry guests round the resort.

Beach villas are best for families and adjacent to the Ritz Kids activity centre for the likes of batik painting, treasure hunts and rainforest walks (plus PlayStation and Wii).