Ritz Carlton has opened its second property in Langkawi, Malaysia, with the launch of an oceanfront resort designed by Philippe Villeroux of Kuala Lumpur-based Tropical Area Architects.

Ritz Carlton Langkawi has been created to “immerse travellers in the island's natural ecosystem and local culture”.

Reflecting the architecture of the nearby traditional villages – which are known as Kampongs – the resort is set in a tranquil private bay and surrounded by an ancient jungle. It offers 70 guest rooms, 15 suites and 29 villas.

The accommodation design includes delicate references to Malay architecture, such as the intricately-designed features, large windows and gabled roofs.

The rooms’ vertical lines also fully integrate the living spaces into the surrounding jungle, while overwater villas offer panoramic views of the sea, complete with Langkawi sunsets.

Intended to allow guests to soak up the island's rich culture and beauty from their first moment, the resort's Walkway of Wishes entrance offers a warm welcome with a water fountain inspired by the island's mystical granter of wishes, Tasik Dayang Bunting, 'The Lake of Pregnant Maiden.'

The resort’s centrepiece is the 917sq m (9,870sq ft) Ritz-Carlton Spa spread across five cocoon-shaped pavilions which seemingly float above the sea.

The pavilions have been designed to resemble Malay Bubus – the intricately woven fish traps that have used by local fishermen for centuries.

Connected by over-water walkways, each pavilion is surrounded by a circular platform with ocean views.

The pavilions house a total of five treatment rooms – a luxury spa suite, a couples’ spa suite, a couples’ treatment room and two single treatment rooms.

There is also a relaxation area with two vitality pools (female and male), a sauna, steam bath, hammam and a manicure and pedicure salon.

There are also indoor and outdoor yoga zones, offering 180° views of the rainforest and classes led by qualified instructors.

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Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi spa inspired by local woven fish traps