PHUKET: Judging a book by its cover may not be wise. But it is probably possible to judge a resort by its library lounge.

Cigars and brandy are among the distractions to nosing into a novel at the Regent Phuket Cape Panwa's library lounge, along with an amazing collection of shell art that's comparable in beauty, perhaps, to the resort's views.

Come to think of it, the library lounge is about the only room at the Regent that doesn't have a view out over the Andaman.

Cascading across and down a Phuket headland, this property has been destined to be a resort for many years and the result has proved worth the wait.

From vantage points along the east coast nearby, the Regent takes on the appearance of a Mediterranean village.

The mood continues through the hidden entrance into a lobby that opens up the ocean view for new arrivals.

Each one of the 105 rooms features a private balcony with sea views, with the more commanding outlooks rising up the room rate scale.

From the lobby to the small, secluded beach, the settings only need a little more plant growth to become luxuriant as well as luxurious.

The Regent has a wonderfully large pool so the swimming conditions in the Andaman, which vary with the seasons, really become something else to forget about as you relax.

Prices at The Restaurant seemed more reasonable than most five-star resorts, and the lunch we were treated to was excellent.

Should you eventually hanker to explore Phuket's culinary delights, the Regent is handily placed for a 15-minute trip to Phuket City, where the dining is far superior to the west coast.

Golf carts allow those who don't fancy a climb to cope with the headland and its multiple layers. And if you fancy more than a climb, the fitness centre can cater for muscles of all sizes and ages.

Down by the beach, kind of in the resort basement, there's a huge table hewn from a forest giant. Funnily enough, the snackery is called The Beach Table.

The Pool Villas are splendid but there are accommodation alternatives to suit just about anyone. Even in stormy weather, a massage on the spa's outer deck, open to the breeze and the thunder, could be memorable.

One point of distinction about the Regent is attention to detail. Just for a change, would you like to have some laundry included in your rate, along with some of the alcohol in the minibar? Done.

Butler service and one of the most well-appointed Kids' Clubs on Phuket . . . the Regent eye for detail and difference leaves little to chance.

Regent Phuket Cape Panwa is a candidate for Phuketwan's Phuket Resort of the Year 2013.