Namia River Retreat: The ultimate wellness travel destination in Vietnam

Have you been dreaming about a destination that offers a distinctive balance of wellness and exploration? Vietnam is steadily emerging as a premier destination for wellness travel, offering a harmonious blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and wellness experiences.

This jewel of south-east Asia has long been known as a hot spot for adventurous backpackers, history buffs and foodies – and now wellness travellers are adding the destination to their bucket list.

There has been a significant increase in tourism businesses in Vietnam, which provides unique wellness experiences that cater to the mind, body and soul. With new venues and activities contributing to the rising trend, one of the newcomers is the award-winning Namia River Retreat in Hoi An.

I recently visited Vietnam and enjoyed some time at the wellness inclusive resort to experience the integration of wellness into the hustle and bustle, noise and chaos that is traditionally associated with a visit to this vibrant country.  

A natural fit for wellness travel in Vietnam

Vietnam is an expansive, long country whose land border stretches more than 4550 kilometres, bordering China to the north, Laos and Cambodia to the west, and the South China Sea to the east.

The breadth of the country offers diverse topography with mountains, deltas, jungle, and plenty of coastline featuring rocky outcrops and sandy beaches.

Just as diverse are the weather patterns that typically reflect a humid climate, with plenty of rain and warm sun. The natural landscapes that are a feature of Vietnam contribute to the wellness experiences offered.

At the Namia  River Retreat, the aim is to integrate into the natural environment as it’s situated on a small island on the Thu Bon River. The restaurants and guest facilities – including a day spa, pool and outdoor yoga shala – are all strategically located to take advantage of the river frontage. Lush gardens, restored with native plants, reflect the local ecosystem and invite guests to connect deeply with the river’s cultural significance of everyday life in Hoi An.

Each of the 60 pool villas at Namia River Retreat is a private sanctuary, inspired by the native nipa palm forest. Designed with natural textures, indoor-outdoor living, and sunken bathtubs overlooking private pools, every villa echoes the serene rhythm of the river. From sunrise dips to moonlit soaks, Namia’s architecture gently blurs the line between nature and retreat.

Traditional wellness experiences and treatments in Vietnam

Vietnam is certainly not one dimensional when it comes to wellness activities and there is a wide selection available at all levels including yoga, tai chi, massage, sound healing, reiki, and detox programs.

At the Namia River Retreat there is a daily program of wellbeing activities for guests including silent walking meditation, daily in-room rituals, a lantern ceremony, a wishing tree ritual, morning tai chi and sleep yoga.

The resort prides itself on being a tranquil haven that embraces therapeutic ancient remedies, southern herbology and healing wisdom. Every guest is provided the opportunity to indulge in a daily 90-minute treatment, which includes a 30-minute hammam and 60-minute therapy such as massage or facial. Upon entering the on-site Lumina Spa, guests are instantly introduced to the traditional local herbs and ingredients that are concocted and mixed by the apothecary while you watch.

As well as the physical activities, there are many temples throughout the country that are places for inner healing, enlightenment and mindfulness practices. Visitors are welcome to enter most of these sites as long as they follow the protocols and behave respectfully.

Natural landscapes offer visitors the chance to connect with nature, be it hiking in the mountains and rice farms of Sapa or cruising the scenic Ha Long Bay or the Thu Bon River in Hoi An.

Namia River Retreat encourages guests to move with the natural rhythm of the day. Wake to a sunrise bicycle ride through the countryside or join a Vietnamese tai chi movement session by the pool. Glide by paddle boat through Hoi An’s iconic nipa palm forests, unwind with sunset riverboat cocktails, and release a floating lantern in the evening ritual of lights.

Mindful eating practices in Vietnam

The local cuisine focuses on a healthy, balanced diet using fresh herbs, broths, and vegetables and most restaurant menus play homage to local dishes and produce. The ingredients all have a purpose, colour, texture, flavour, healing and energy.

Following many of the trends in western countries, plant-based and detox options are readily appearing on menus and form part of many wellness experiences. Traditional Vietnamese recipes also support the rise of vegetarian and veganism.

Dining at the Namia River Retreat offers guests the opportunity to connect with the local cuisines at their two restaurants – The Merchant and The Fisherman. Guests are invited to try new dishes that link tradition with innovation in a sustainable manner. The resort’s cuisine features fresh ingredients sourced locally in Hoi An, from fragrant Tra Que vegetables and flavourful Hoi An duck to fresh fish from Cu Lao Cham. The kitchen embraces the ‘garden to table’ philosophy, offering guests not only the authentic flavours of nature but also a deep connection to the land and its people.

Why choose Vietnam for wellness travel?

Vietnam is a destination that has regular flights from most major airports around the world and the country’s stability and affordability make it an attractive place for solo and group wellness travellers.

For most travellers, Vietnam’s affordability means that wellness experiences are available at a fraction of the cost than in other countries. This affordability means that travellers can try new treatments and increase the frequency of treatments as well. At Namia River Resort they have taken this to another level by including a treatment in each guest’s stay each day. This gives guests the opportunity to experience the various treatments available without committing to expensive programs.

The Vietnamese people are extremely warm and welcoming. The kindness and hospitality of locals enhance the experience. At Namia River Retreat the staff are exceptional, from the little things like a warm Xin Chao (hello) any time you cross paths, to remembering your favourite tea at breakfast, or providing the shuttle service around the resort – all of which very quickly make you feel welcomed and part of the Namia family.

The allure of Vietnam as a wellness destination lies in its ability to offer diverse experiences that cater to so many different types of travellers, whether it’s the culturally immersive and herbology-inspired offer at Namia River Retreat or taking a mountain hike with a local guide in Ba Be National Park in the north.

The Namia River Retreat in Hoi An is a prime example of Vietnam’s emergence into the wellness market, integrating traditional healing practices with high quality, modern wellness trends, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a holistic escape.

The resort’s commitment to wellness extends beyond the guest experience. With eco-conscious operations, local hiring practices, and deep-rooted community engagement, the luxury wellness-inclusive resort aims to redefine what it means to travel well, not just for oneself, but for the land and people too.

When planning your next wellness trip be sure to consider Vietnam and enjoy a balanced trip for the mind, body and soul.

Disclaimer: The writer was a guest of Namia River Retreat.