Embracing Nature with Chiva-Som.
We’ve awakened naturally and well ahead of the scheduled alarm to witness the captivating pink sunrise over the Gulf of Thailand in Hua Hin. This morning’s venture is to attend a meditation class, and together with our guide, we embark on a tranquil stroll towards Wat Khao Krailat, a nearby temple. The vantage point on top of the hill grants us panoramic views of the city below and it’s in this serene setting that yoga teacher Kamlesh Kumar is leading us through a soothing session, employing the power of our breath and minds to embark on our meditation expedition.
In 2020, a new stairway was unveiled, leading to the summit of the temple, while at its base lies the precious remaining mangrove ecosystem in Hua Hin. Chiva-Som, in collaboration with the temple, has undertaken the responsibility of preserving and nurturing this vital mangrove habitat in the area. By partnering with the temple, Chiva-Som aims to breathe life into eco-spiritual tourism, providing guests with an opportunity to connect with nature and contribute to its restoration efforts. Together, striving to create a harmonious blend of ecological preservation and spiritual exploration within the region.
It’s the perfect balance as we’re here to reconnect with nature and explore the healing effects of herbal wellness treatments and natural, organic cuisine as we experience the resort’s ‘Nature’s Embrace Retreat’.
Upon our arrival to Chiva-Som, we were warmly welcomed by the charming general manager, Vaipanya Kongkwanyuen, who introduced us to a magnificent family of Koi Carp. These stunning creatures, in hues of gold and orange, create a mesmerising sight. We were encouraged to feed them, and in return, they expressed their gratitude through a captivating circular swimming display before gracefully dispersing among the surrounding flora. The enchanting atmosphere continued from here.
Accommodation at Chiva-Som
Transported in a golf buggy, we were swiftly guided through the peaceful and verdant resort, while our driver provided a brief overview of the surroundings. Thai-style bungalows and villas, adorned with traditional elements, harmoniously blend with the ancient banyan trees and meticulously designed landscapes.
Nestled on the top floor was the “Juniper Suite” and our home during the stay. It offered a serene and extraordinary space to relish one of the resort’s most breathtaking views—the splendid sunrise and the surrounding nature. Our attentive Butler, Ra, warmly welcomed us, taking charge of our luggage and offering to unpack them in the expansive walk-in dressing rooms. The suite exuded tranquillity, with soft lighting and an abundance of natural materials. The sliding doors provided the option for privacy or an open-plan layout, seamlessly connecting the living room area with the bedroom. As night fell, the suite enveloped us in serenity, accompanied by the gentle aroma of oil burners.
Four years ago, the entire resort underwent an upgrade under the discerning eye of American architect and interior designer Ed Tuttle. With utmost sensitivity, contemporary elements were introduced while preserving the essence of traditional Thai style. The resort comprises just 54 recently renovated rooms, thoughtfully designed to enhance the overall wellness experience and evoke a sense of tranquillity. The Thai Pavilions are nestled amidst serene gardens, while the Ocean Side Rooms and Suites—where we were fortunate to stay—feature natural décor and ample terrace space. Each Suite boasts a dining area, dressing room, mini pantry, and two bathrooms. Personalisation is key, extending to bathroom amenities, mattresses, pillows, and even the scents emanating from the oil burners, ensuring a truly tailored experience.
Food at Chiva-Som
For individuals with intricate allergies or intolerances, Chiva-Som has assembled a team of over 30 skilled kitchen staff and chefs who are readily available to prepare specialised meals that cater to your specific needs.
Anticipation builds each day as we eagerly await the culinary creations masterminded by Executive Chef Sinchai Srivipa. As part of our immersive Nature’s Embrace retreat, a highlight includes a short excursion to the resort’s local organic garden. It is here that the kitchen team places their orders for fresh fruits, aromatic herbs, and vibrant greens, handpicked and promptly delivered in time for lunch and dinner.
Breakfast and lunch choices are presented in glass dishes, meticulously portioned to align with calorie control principles, and accompanied by detailed dietary information for each item. We are free to choose and indulge as much as we desire, and after just three days, we feel an unparalleled sense of cleanliness and lightness, both inside and out.
Despite the focus on health, the taste is never compromised. Even seemingly simple fresh green salads become a delightful symphony of flavours, thanks to zesty dressings. Desserts astonish with their creamy texture, achieved without the use of dairy products, and any potentially fattening ingredients are skillfully replaced with healthier alternatives.
Dinner offers the opportunity to select from a menu, once again accompanied by comprehensive dietary information. While the portions are intentionally small, we have the option to double up for a more substantial serving or, as we did, explore additional items to expand our culinary journey.
The attentive staff effortlessly remembers our preferred beverage choices for each meal, including the irresistible coconut protein drink, available with a choice of whey or hemp. During lunchtime, we consistently encounter Butler Ra, who graciously checks in on us, ensuring our needs are met and offering any assistance required.
Rest assured, hunger is never a concern at Chiva-Som, and upon departure, we yearn for the nourishing freshness experienced during our stay, so we were lucky to have a private Thai cooking class with Chef Touch V. before we left. Chef Touch took us through a demonstration of salads, soups, fish and chicken dishes where we soon learnt that our own home attempts at Thai cooking were significantly lacking in enough soy and lime juice. After each dish was prepared (using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients) and cooked we got to eat the four delicious courses, and all before lunch!
Treatments at Chiva-Som
Embarking on the Chiva-Som journey commences with a comprehensive health and wellness consultation. Prior to your arrival, you are requested to complete an extensive well-being questionnaire, which is then carefully analysed and discussed during the consultation. Based on this insightful evaluation, a personalised program is meticulously crafted for your stay, encompassing a wide array of offerings such as spa treatments, fitness and training sessions, healing modalities as necessary, and tailored dietary advice.
Whether your goals revolve around weight loss, smoking cessation, or reducing alcohol consumption, dedicated programs are in place to provide comprehensive support throughout your journey. Moreover, if you are dealing with an injury or ailment, Chiva-Som takes this into careful consideration and offers suitable treatments, which explains why many individuals choose to embark on this transformative journey and return time and again.
Each day, we follow a schedule of spa treatments, arriving a little earlier to indulge in a brief session in the steam room and invigorating cold plunge pools. The spa features separate male and female sections, while a joint sauna is available near the indoor pool. Our exquisite treatments encompass the Chiva-Som massage, traditional Thai massage, as well as head and foot massages.
One of the spa staff members recognises me during two of the massages and recalls my previous niggling cough, which was triggered by the air conditioning. She promptly turns it off, demonstrating thoughtful attention to detail.
During the skin analysis session, my chin is placed on a stand while a camera swiftly captures a scan of my face. The process is simple and efficient, though the results, in my case, bring a tinge of sadness when I learn about the cost of the suggested non-invasive treatments needed to address the numerous concerns. Yet, it all emphasises the comprehensive expertise available at Chiva-Som.
While time is limited, we manage to squeeze in an hour at the well-equipped gym, although we regret not having the opportunity to experience aqua fitness. Throughout our stay, we cherish the 45 minutes between treatments, finding solace in the breathtaking views of the beach and the outdoor pool.
Initially, the schedule may seem overwhelming, and there is indeed much to fit into our days. However, like the other guests who are also there, we swiftly settle into a comforting routine swapping branded cotton pyjamas with our gym kit and then throwing on a robe and flip-flops depending on our appointments.
Chiva-Som transcends the concept of a spa. It is a destination where individuals embark on personal journeys to achieve their unique goals. While one can certainly indulge in relaxation and the occasional massage, failing to explore the true purpose of this sanctuary would be a missed opportunity. With an extensive array of offerings, far exceeding what we could experience in our three-day visit, Chiva-Som becomes a transformative reset for many, allowing them to embark on a new path of self-discovery.
The effectiveness of Chiva-Som is evident in the fact that 80% of its guests are repeat clients, some returning dozens of times over the course of a decade or two, they become family. In just three days, I personally experienced an unexpected surprise—losing 1kg. It was not a goal I had set, and I certainly didn’t deprive myself of the incredible food offerings. Nevertheless, it served as a pleasant reminder of the positive impact of my time spent here. Regardless of the retreat one chooses, departing from Chiva-Som leaves a profound sense of refreshment, accompanied by a deep desire to continue the incredible work that has been initiated.
As we prepare to bid farewell after our three-night stay, it becomes challenging to say goodbye. Butler Ra graciously offers to pack our suitcases, serving as a poignant reminder of the consistently exceptional service we have received throughout our entire visit. From the attentive dining staff to the expertise of the spa and well-being professionals, this ‘Haven of Life’ has left an indelible impression.
The Nature’s Embrace retreat includes 1 Traditional Thai Herbal Massage, 1 Oriental Foot Ritual, 1 Forest Walk & Hilltop Meditation (120 mins), 1 Private Cooking Class – Thai Cuisine (120 mins), 1 Organic Garden Tour (120 mins).
Accommodation, individual health and wellness consultation, meals, physical analysis, skin consultation, daily fitness and leisure activities (up to twelve classes daily), unlimited use of the Water Therapy Suites (steam, sauna and Jacuzzi), a complimentary daily treatment, post-stay wellness follow-up, in-room minibar and complimentary laundry (four pieces/day).
Healing Holidays (healingholidays.com; 020 7843 3597) can arrange a 10-night Nature’s Embrace programme from £6,999 per person sharing, including flights, transfers, full board accommodation and inclusions of the programme.
