Amanoi, Vietnam

Every special hotel starts with a journey. The scenic coastal drive to Amanoi is almost as spectacular as the resort itself. It is made even more enjoyable by the hotel’s private transfer from the local airport, which is complimentary for all guests.

Amanoi is located in central Vietnam nearby to the protected Nui Chua National Park. The beautiful, rugged landscape is a stark contrast to the modern, design-focused resort but in my opinion presents the perfect juxtaposition. The hotel’s central pavilion houses its main restaurant, bar and library. Natural materials are used wherever possible and the space has as only a few exterior walls and windows, which gives an abundance of light and air.

There are 31 one-bedroom pavilions and five multi-bedroom villas. All are similarly spacious and thoughtfully-arranged, with vistas of the National Park, the sea or the lake. I stayed in a pavilion with a large balcony and an uninterrupted ocean view. The open-plan room was flooded with natural light and featured concealed and discreet electrical amenities and controls. The sleek decor and warm colours made it immediately appealing, and I spent as much time as I could relaxing in the comfortable living area. Through a pair of sliding doors was the expansive bathroom, with his-and-hers sinks and wardrobes, a large stone bath and sliding windows and doors to expose you to the elements.

The food at Amanoi is all of a very high standard, whether you dine in-room, at the beachside cafe or in the hotel’s main restaurant. Executive Chef Danny Woodbridge oversees all the menus and ensures guests requests and requirements are met. For our first dinner we enjoyed some delicious  international favourites, and on our second night were spoilt with a Vietnamese feast. Particularly memorable were the smoked eggplant with spring onion sauce, and the authentic beef claypot.

Breakfast was a daily highlight. A comprehensive menu of international and local treats, both healthy and indulgent options. I sampled impeccable dishes of eggs benedict, French toast and pancakes, alongside the daily selection of fresh exotic fruit and juices, and flaky homemade pastries.

When you are not relaxing in the privacy of your room or enjoying the hotel’s culinary delights, there are many facilities and activities to keep your entertained. The Aman Spa is a heavenly retreat, overlooking a lotus flower covered lake, with treatment rooms, sauna rooms and a yoga pavilion where each morning guests are invited to join a complimentary session.

The hotel’s two pools, health club and gym are also available free-of-charge, or for those wanting to have a go at watersports, the beach club (with its own pool) is another option. There are also a number of walks and hikes within and nearby to the property. For early-risers, you can catch a spectacular sunrise from the top of Goga Peak, just a 10-minute stroll from the hotel’s central pavilion.

Amanoi is an idyllic and isolated getaway from the busy cities of Vietnam. With sun year round it is very appealing escape from Britain’s less than reliable weather.

More information and book a stay at Amanoi here.

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