Beach please, it’s a jungle out there
The journey to the most secluded beach resorts often include a mix of multiple flights, land transits and boat trips away, but as anyone can promise, the trips are always well worth it. Take for example An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay. Located on the north-western coast of Vietnam by a jungle peninsula, it requires you to catch a connecting flight from Ho Chi Minh’s Tan Son Nhat airport to Nha Trang city. And without a listed address on its site, it’ll take some navigation and a good sense of direction if you’ve decided on a self-drive to the resort. What it promises though, is isolation and secrecy needed to disconnect from the world.
The resort offers just 33 standalone timber villas, each occupying at least 95sqm and outfitted with modern luxuries. But take it from us, you’ll be spending a lot more time on the private verandahs of the villas, where ocean and waterfall vistas await. Depending on the villa chosen, you may also choose to soak in the outdoor bathtub (Jungle Rock villa) or the plunge pool (Bay View, Beach and Treetop Pool villas). The rooms strive to be as self-contained as possible, but for sudden requests for afternoon snacks or activity suggestions, your private butler will see to it.
The resort is worth exploring, given that it’s nestled at the fringe of a jungle. Sen restaurant (meaning Lotus in English), perched on a large rock formation that sticks out from the ocean, ensures equally stunning views. Not to be outdone, the Eco-roof and beach bar also make great social spots. Each of the three offer exotic cocktails, an array of snacks from around the region, and local and Western cuisine, ensuring that you’re well fed, no matter where you decide to spend your day.
Those looking to unwind can head to the Jungle spa for traditional therapies and body massages that nourish and balance the mind and body. You may also head to the sauna and the fresh spring water pond, whiling your time away in nature. Of course, exploration is also encouraged at the resort. Book one of the many day trips to visit the Yang Bay waterfall, hike up the mountain, tour the pagoda and cathedral, or relax in mud baths and hot springs. For those looking to explore at leisure, the resort also offers complimentary boat shuttle services to Nha Trang city, a short 15-minute ride away.
An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay
Ninh Van, Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam
Tel: +84 58 3728 388
