In a world that often moves too quickly, finding a space that allows you to skip the routine, slow down and consciously connect with Mother Nature can be a rare treasure. Located in southern Vietnam, Ninh Van Bay has miraculously flown under mass tourism’s radar, so its fairytale setting – animated with cascading waterfalls, pristine beaches, coral reefs, singing birds and playful monkeys – remains largely untouched.
It is hard to believe that An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay, a dreamy jungle hideaway enveloped by Hon Heo mountain, is just a short boat ride from bustling Nha Trang City. The off-the-grid location, only accessible by water, ensures that every part of your stay is a soul healing experience.
The retreat lives up to its name, which in Vietnamese translates to “place of peace”, by providing a quick escape into an enchanting oasis of unspoiled nature. Mixing wilderness and luxury, 37 thoughtfully designed villas are furnished with a blend of modern sophistication and local charm. If being lulled to sleep by the sound of waves tickles your fancy, upgrade your stay to a splurge-worthy beach villa. For an added level of privacy, opt for a canopy-level treehouse with a private pool, and embrace the serenity that only nature can bestow. No matter what you choose, each villa offers generous living space, elegantly curated interiors, modern amenities, and a personalized butler service.
The peaceful morning scene you picture for your dream vacation starts at Sen, the retreat’s striking landmark that doubles as the all-day dining restaurant. Shaped like a giant lotus, it looms over the sea offering indoor and outdoor sitting areas accompanied by stunning views of the sparkling bay. The menu highlights authentic regional dishes prepared with a farm-to-table philosophy and fresh seasonal ingredients. Treat yourself to a glass of champagne paired with freshly chucked oysters or a bottle of white wine perfectly matched with grilled pomfret.
Synonymous with sundowners, a lofty Sen Deck is the retreat’s rooftop bar, that offers an extensive list of drinks, cool vibes, and panoramic views of the sprawling peninsula. With the taste profiles of the signature and classic cocktails ranging from sour to fruity, any palate and curiosity will find a pleasant surprise.
No jungle holiday experience is complete without a gourmet picnic framed by sunshine and good company. Whether it is your birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, or you just want to celebrate being on vacation, you are in for a treat: choose between a selection of BBQ satays prepared right in front of you and a local favourite, the Banh Mi set, delivered to your alfresco dining spot. If you prefer something less casual, soak up the soothing sounds of the East Sea as you enjoy a flawless private dinner service on the deck beneath a brilliant canopy of stars.
For those who love telling stories through cooking, Chef Kiet offers an unforgettable cultural adventure at the onsite culinary school. Start your exploration at the organic garden gathering fresh herbs and vegetables for your 2-hour hands-on journey through daring flavours of Vietnamese cuisine. Fine-tuning the right balance between local and western tastes, all the menus can be tailored to your preferences and interests.
Should you wish to while away your day at a more leisurely pace, find your spot on the powder white beach or slip into relaxation and well-being at the Jungle Spa, set amidst lush tropical foliage. Inspired by the purity of the surrounding nature, the menu features indigenous ethically sourced ingredients like aloe vera, coconut, seaweed, salt, and mud to deliver a unique sense of place to those who travel. Surrender to a signature 2.5-hour pampering that combines green tea scrub, a traditional Vietnamese massage and a relaxing facial. To complement the invigorating experience, An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay offers a chance to tap into the world of wellness and maintain a more centered state of mind through yoga, meditation and fitness with group and private sessions available.
Beyond the upscale set-up, An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay has gone to great lengths to bring about a positive change to neighbouring communities and minimize the impact on the environment. To keep guests hydrated, the retreat not only purifies natural spring water but also delivers it in reusable bottles to eliminate plastic waste. Being a keen supporter of local producers, An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay champions Vietnamese farmers and fishermen by sourcing all seafood and most of the vegetables from nearby villages. When visiting the retreat’s organic garden, make sure to stop by the chicken farm which hosts a dozen free-roaming hens, providing Sen restaurant with fresh produce.
Due to its privileged location, An Lam Ninh Van Bayis a treasure trove of exploration and adventure. Lace up your hiking boots and explore numerous trails that reveal majestic sea vistas, trickling streams and gigantic boulders towering above the jungle.
Do as much or as little as you like – turn off your phone and take in the inspiring surroundings with a cocktail in hand or watch the day coming to a dreamy end as you sail into the sunset on a private boat. If you are lucky enough to be in Ninh Van Bay during the full moon, join a special guided meditation on board a wooden catamaran. Tune into the cycles of nature and allow a moment of stillness and mindfulness while listening to the soothing sounds of Tibetan singing bowls under heaven’s celestial glow.
From soaking in natural hot springs to exploring handicraft villages and vibrant markets, the retreat’s team invites you on an extraordinary adventure that will spark your wanderlust and fill your soul with excitement. Extending far beyond your stay, the real luxury of An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay lies in the location, the passion and expertise of its staff and the opportunity to connect to a Vietnamese culture at your own pace.
