The seaside resort of Kep is on a small headland, has a 6km palm-fringed road extending along the coastline and is a popular day trip from Kampot. It was founded as a colonial retreat for the French elite in 1908. Cambodian high rollers continued the tradition, flocking here to enjoy gambling and water sports. Little remains but skeletons of buildings as locals were forced to loot the villas for, materials to sell to the Vietnamese to survive the famine of 1979 and 1980.

Located just a short boat ride off the coast is Rabbit Island. It has four beaches, all of these are much nicer than those at Kep, and it is possible to stay with families on the island as long as you can sort out a price for food and lodging. Boats to take you over to the island, can be arranged at the first cluster of food stalls on the coast road.

The old French hill station of Bokor is known for its cool climate, secluded waterfalls and jungle vistas. The place really has a ghost town feel and the old Catholic church looks like it was locked up only yesterday. The old hotel and casino, the Bokor Palace, is straight out of The Shining, and if you walk to the edge of what was once a terrace you will be rewarded with a magnificent view over lush jungle stretching almost to the sea.