Namia River Retreat, situated near Hoi An, provides a tranquil escape with luxurious wellness amenities. Reviewed by Danielle Phyland, it’s a true sanctuary for body and soul.
Arriving at Namia River Retreat, you enter an oasis of tranquillity, where the constant honking and hustle and bustle of Vietnam seems to dissolve into the surrounding tropical gardens.
Just 2.5km outside Hoi An Old Town in central Vietnam, situated on the banks of the Thu Bon River, this wellness sanctuary promises not only a break from the chaos of traveling in Vietnam but also rejuvenation.
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The retreat offers an immersive experience with a plethora of inclusions, giving guests a taste of traditional experiences and wellness practices.
The sense of peace at Namia River Retreat embraces you from the very moment you enter the welcome lounge.
The retreat is intentionally secluded, far enough from downtown Hoi An to offer a true sense of escape, yet close enough to offer access to the UNESCO-listed city.
A welcome tea and cool towel greet you on arrival, provided by kind, friendly staff who ensure that your transition into the retreat is gentle and relaxed.
The design of the property is naturally aligned with the landscape using sustainable materials and landscaping that emphasise openness and connection with nature. It’s clear that Namia River Retreat is dedicated to providing an environment that fosters wellness and acknowledges the local culture.
The sounds of the river, the wind through the trees, and the chirping of birds all create a soundtrack of serenity.
My Room
Entering the room, it’s hard to focus on just one feature – the oversize sunken bath at the foot of the enormous king-sized bed, the beautiful villa pool and luxe sun lounges, the indoor and outdoor showers, or the sweeping swathe of a bathroom sink that spans the bench top in the walk-through dressing room and bathroom.
There is honestly no need to leave the room when staying here if it weren’t for the incredible facilities outside the villas.
Restaurants
There are two sensational restaurants on site open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Merchant, open to the public and guests, and The Fisherman, exclusive to retreat guests.
The menus at each restaurant are very different. The Merchant features local dishes accompanied by an exceptional cocktail and mocktail menu inspired by local street food.
The Fisherman is a seafood-based restaurant overlooking the pool and the river. The menu highlights the traditional seafood and blends it with cooking styles from all over the world.
Pool & Activities
Whilst each villa has its own private pool, there is a communal swimming pool that can be accessed by all guests of the retreat.
This pool is heated and overlooks the river. There are plenty of lounges, and the nearby pool bar serves food and beverages throughout the day.
A daily activity program is available free of charge to all guests, beginning with early morning activities such as Tai Chi and local cycling adventures into the rice fields.
There are yoga classes, coconut boat trips, and an all-inclusive sunset river cruise with canapes and cocktails. You can be as busy or as relaxed as you like, as all activities are optional.
Wellness Offerings: Mind, Body, and Spirit
As a retreat, Namia offers a comprehensive array of activities designed to nourish the body and soul.
The property features a range of wellness programs, from daily yoga sessions, sauna, cold plunge, and therapeutic massages. This relaxed approach allows guests to tailor their experience according to their personal wellness needs.
The yoga sessions at Namia River Retreat are the highlight of the wellness experience. The sessions are held in the yoga studio or in the open, airy yoga shala that overlooks the river, offering views and sounds that help deepen the sense of connection to the earth.
The instructors are seasoned professionals who offer flexibility to accommodate all levels of experience, ensuring that even first-time yogi’s can participate fully.
The sleep yoga sessions are divine and allow you to ease into a blissful relaxation as the sun goes down.
Namia River Retreat also offers a range of spa therapies – every guest receives a 90-minute wellness journey per night.
The spa facilities are beautifully designed, overlooking the river with plenty of lounges and relaxation pods. Tea is served upon arrival and throughout the treatment.
The treatments commence in the Hammam, which is a steam room with a large marble slab where guests can choose from a body scrub or a wrap. The alchemist creates a bespoke scrub based on natural, eco-friendly ingredients that aligns to your personal wellness goals and desires.
The skilled therapists used techniques designed to balance the body’s energy, which left me feeling both relaxed and revitalized. The next stage is a 60-minute massage which was excellent and leaves you feeling utterly relaxed.
Namia River Retreat is a sanctuary that caters to individuals seeking rejuvenation in a truly holistic way.
From the tranquil surroundings to the carefully curated wellness activities, every aspect of the retreat is designed to nurture the mind, body, and spirit. Whether you are looking to relax or for a luxury retreat near Hoi An, Namia River Retreat offers a restorative experience that lingers long after you leave its peaceful grounds.
Danielle Phyland is a freelance travel writer based in Melbourne, Australia. Her work has appeared in the Herald Sun, various online publications including Traveler, She Defined and One Hour Out, Qantas Insider and she has been a guest on a selection of travel podcasts. Danielle manages her own blog The Adventures of Poss and Ruby, where she features stories and travel tips from abroad and local adventures with her trusty 4-wheel steed Ruby. Danielle’s aim is to share stories that inspire travellers (25 -55yrs) to get out and explore both locally and abroad. With years of professional experience in marketing and tourism, she has a strong passion for cultural experiences and foodie activities which finds her always seeking out new experiences and supporting the little guys.
