As the pioneering force behind the modern wellness retreat, Chiva-Som Hua Hin, Thailand, has long reigned supreme as the benchmark by which all other holistic destinations are measured. And as the resort gets ready to celebrate its 30th anniversary, its reputation for unparalleled health and transformative experiences is stronger than ever. Here’s what you need to know about this five-star wellness retreat …
Chiva-Som’s History
Chiva-Som’s origins trace back to 1995, when former investment banker Krip Rojanastien and his wife Pratana set out to create a sanctuary dedicated to comprehensive wellbeing. Inspired by their own bespoke journeys with health and fitness, the couple envisioned a retreat that would guide guests on transformative mind-body-spirit journeys using a truly integrative approach.
Nestled across 12 lush, tropical acres along the emerald waters of the Gulf of Thailand, the resort’s architectural design seamlessly blends contemporary styling with traditional Thai elements. The resort is now in the hands of the founder’s son and grandson, who manage their loyal team like family—many of whom have been with the company for over two decades.
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Design
The use of locally-sourced materials like teak, rattan, and mother-of-pearl, lend a warm, sustainable and serene ambiance throughout the property. One standout feature is the open-air Orchid Lounge, where soaring ceilings, cascading fountains, and verdant gardens create a truly zen-like atmosphere. The bathing pavilion is also something to behold where guests can seamlessly move from hot and cold water, go on a sensory walk and stare at the stars while enjoying the stunning steam room. But Chiva-Som’s appeal goes far beyond just its beautiful aesthetics.
Wellness at Chiva-Som
At the heart of the resort’s ethos is a steadfast commitment to personalisation and holistic care. Upon arrival, all guests undergo an in-depth health and wellness assessment, which informs a completely customised programme of spa treatments, fitness activities, nutritional guidance, and even life coaching. This level of individualised attention is further reflected in the resort’s exquisitely appointed 54 rooms and suites, ranging from serene garden suites to sprawling beachfront villas with private plunge pools.
Of course, no visit to Chiva-Som would be complete without experiencing the resort’s acclaimed wellness centre—a true masterpiece of design and innovation. Spanning 70,000 square feet, the facilities include 70 treatment rooms, hydrotherapy suites, a state-of-the-art gym, yoga pavilion, and indoor lap pool. The treatment menu has over 200 options to choose from, each one more enticing than the last. Therapists train at the Chiva-Som school in Bangkok and they are the best in Thailand and arguably the world.
In 72 hours, I experienced a wellness journey that included massages, Chi Nei Tsang, TECAR therapy, LPG Cellu M6 Alliance treatment, physiotheraphy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, facial analysis with a dermatologist, and a blowdry. The curation of treatments and the treatments themselves were perfect. The wide array of fitness classes in world-class facilities is also second to none, and the long stretch of beach that Chiva-Som pours onto is the nicest way to get in a daily dose of steps and vitamin D.
What truly sets Chiva-Som apart is its renowned team of experts—a dedicated group of wellness specialists that includes nutritionists, physiotherapists, traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, and some of the world’s top holistic authorities. Together, this highly skilled staff guides guests on transformative journeys, from healthy cooking classes to fitness sessions and life coaching.
Retreats are life-changing, literally, with some guests staying for almost a year and others bringing their families to join in their transformative journeys. The infamous wellness cuisine is also an enormous draw, it is the only place in the world where you can eat like a king and lose weight thanks to a genius culinary team who manage to pack flavour but not calories into every bite of Thai and wellness cuisine.
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As Chiva-Som gets ready to celebrate 30 years of wellness excellence, the resort’s commitment to pioneering innovations shows no signs of slowing. With its uncompromising focus on personalised care, world-class facilities, and truly integrated approach to holistic health, this iconic destination continues to raise the bar for wellness travel. In an age where retreats have become increasingly commonplace, Chiva-Som remains the gold standard—a true oasis of transformation that has inspired generations of guests on their journeys to optimal wellbeing.
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