At Namia River Retreat, Barry Finneran discovers a dreamy wellness sanctuary that caters perfectly for families seeking a recharge of the senses, delivering a restorative experience full of connection.
River Family Villa, Namia Wellness Retreat
Find an unspoiled paradise at Namia in the best of both worlds
Nestled on a private islet along the banks of the unspoiled Thu Bồn River, just minutes from the Ancient Town, Namia has created the sense that you are hidden away in a rural Mekong retreat – when in fact you are deep in the heart of Hôi An.
Namia River Retreat is an idyllic wellness resort that promises more than just a place to stay, it is a place to learn; where the art of healing, holistic wellbeing, and mindful living converge.
After a day out exploring the Ancient Town’s fresh food markets, local cafes and tailors, Namia provides incredible tranquility to help you decompress and slow down. Namia is a sanctuary for anyone seeking to reconnect with themselves, their family, and the natural surroundings of Hôi An.
Namia Lantern Ceremony
Starting every day by balancing mind and body
We begin our morning with some light morning movement Dưỡng Sinh, a partly indigenous breathing and yoga exercise similar to Tai Chi, in the stunning serene fitness studio. This is followed by a wellbeing assessment to determine which of the different local herbal remedies (Thuốc Nam) are best applied to you at the in-house apothecary.
Once your wellbeing assessment and personalised herbal parcel have been created, you then proceed to the first-of-its-kind herbal hammam steam rooms for application of herbs. This allows you to absorb the nutrients of these centuries-old remedies before proceeding to your traditional therapy massage. Finishing with a warm private bath ritual awaiting you as you return to your room.
If only we could start every day like this…
Bucket boats, Namia River
A truly authentic experience with a standout staff
One of the standout elements of our stay at Namia is the staff. From a conversation with one of the Spa consultants we discover that her ancestral home, where she was raised, faces the resort from just across the river.
This leads us to learn that over 95% of the staff are locally recruited from Hôi An, creating an incredible energy of pride, local knowledge and homely comfort into every interaction throughout our stay.
As Mrs. Dien shared with us: ‘In Vietnamese culture, remedies for cold or headaches often came from the backyard. We grew up familiar with the herbal scents of these homemade remedies, prepared by our loving mothers or grandmothers.’
This firsthand education about local remedies and traditions feels like we are being welcomed into their culture in an incredibly genuine and special way.
Nipa Pool Villa
A sanctuary for the modern family that’s all about connection
While Namia River Retreat may exude a sense of peaceful solitude, it is far from a place of seclusion—it is a destination designed for families to reconnect with each other and with nature. Here, the pace is slow, the air is fresh, and the activities are endless, making it the perfect family getaway.
Spacious, family-orientated accommodations provide real relaxation
Designed with both luxury and comfort in mind, the resort’s accommodations include spacious riverside villas and multi-bedroom suites that offer ample space for families to unwind.
Think expansive living areas, private terraces, and panoramic views of the river and lush landscape. Each unit serves as your personal sanctuary, offering all the amenities needed for a seamless blend of luxury and family comfort. Whether you’re unwinding in the plush living room or sharing a private family dinner on your terrace, every moment feels effortlessly relaxing.
The Fisherman Restaurant
Wellness for all ages will empower your kids
At Namia, wellness is a family affair. While parents rejuvenate with spa treatments or quiet moments by the river, kids can engage in nature-centric activities that spark curiosity and creativity. They can start their day with a tailored morning yoga class or join a fun, interactive cooking workshop that teaches them how to make healthy meals.
Each family member is invited to actively participate in the retreat’s wellness offerings, transforming wellbeing into a shared experience. We even got a private lesson in Tai Chi, of which Namia is actively trying to change younger people’s perception that it is only for ‘old people’. We all certainly found it energising and great fun too!
Herb garden, Bamboo Bicycle Trail
Outdoor adventures and educational excursions
Families will find no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy together at Namia. From kayaking down the calm river, to guided eco-tours through the verdant forest, each activity is an opportunity to bond and explore the natural beauty of the surroundings. The resort also offers educational experiences such as nature walks that introduce younger guests to the region’s flora and fauna—allowing them to connect with the environment in meaningful ways.
Namia Kids’ Club for fun and wellness
For those moments when adults wish to indulge in a quiet spa treatment or take part in a more challenging wellness session, the resort’s Kids’ Club offers a safe, engaging space for younger guests. With supervised activities like art classes, treasure hunts, and outdoor games, the children’s programme ensures that they are just as immersed in the resort’s wellness philosophy as the adults, all while having a good time. Their facilities include an indoor air-conditioned area, outdoor play area and heated children’s pool.
Dining made easy – a philosophy of mindful eating
Meal times at Namia are an experience in themselves. The resort’s family-friendly dining options cater to every member of the family, with menus that include both healthy, kid-approved dishes and gourmet fare for adults. For families with dietary restrictions or preferences, the chefs are happy to accommodate, ensuring that every meal is both nourishing and satisfying. A huge plus for us was their ability to provide all-day breakfast and in-room dining at any time of day, so we could enjoy delicious local dishes while relaxing by our private pool.
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- The Apothecary
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- Hammam herbal steam room
A wellness haven that’s immersive, inclusive, and invigorating
The hallmark of Namia River Retreat lies in its Wellness Inclusive philosophy. Unlike traditional resorts, where wellness services are often offered as an add-on, here wellness is the core experience. Every aspect of your stay from the moment you arrive is designed to nourish the mind, body, and soul.
Daily wellness practices bring transformation
Begin your mornings with a calming yoga session as the sun rises over the river, or indulge in guided meditation led by world-class instructors. The retreat’s wellness experts cater to all levels, ensuring a deeply personal and transformative experience.
Culinary excellence as a route to self-care
At Namia, the philosophy of wellness extends to the table. The incorporation of Yin-Yang balance within each meal alongside the resort’s farm-to-table sourcing offers an array of gourmet dishes prepared with the finest organic, local ingredients. Each meal is a celebration of fresh, nutrient-dense flavours that nourish both body and soul, with options that cater to every dietary preference—from plant-based delicacies to rich, protein-filled creations.
Holistic spa treatments to soothe the soul
The spa at Namia is a sanctuary in itself. Choose from a selection of healing therapies that combine ancient techniques like Ayurvedic treatments and reiki with cutting-edge wellness practices. Our treatment included a first-of-its-kind Hammam herbal steam inspired by the Hungarian steam room chambers and Eastern practice of local herbal medicine. For those seeking deep restoration, detoxifying body wraps and sound therapy create an experience that is as luxurious as it is healing.
Namia River Pool Villa
Soft architecture blends gently with the environment
There’s a clear focus on reflecting the local surroundings with circular windows and curved walls influenced by the passing basket boats or the earthy colours perfectly in sync with the colours of the soil and river surrounding the islet. The team explained to us that soft feminine architecture is intentional in helping guests to relax and slow down.
Namia harnesses nature as ultimate wellness tool
Emphasising a deep connection with the land, Namia offers immersive nature-based wellness activities. Guided forest walks, river canoeing, and the meditative practice of forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku) ground your energy and restore balance with every experience.
Sundown Cruise
The Namia commitment to sustainability
As a destination that embraces mindful living, Namia River Retreat places a strong emphasis on sustainability. The resort operates with eco-conscious practices that ensure minimal impact on the surrounding environment. The resort creates a greener, more sustainable place to stay by using solar-powered energy systems, locally sourced building materials, and organic farming techniques. Guests can join sustainability initiatives through educational tours, organic gardening programs, or by simply appreciating the pristine natural landscape.
In fact, surrounding all of the properties at the resort are herbs and vegetables such as mugwort, lemongrass and pomelo that you will see incorporated into your food as well as your Spa treatments and teas. This dedication to sustainability not only enhances the guest experience but also promotes a holistic approach to wellbeing.
Nipa Family Villa
Why you should choose Namia as your next family getaway
Whether you’re looking for a rejuvenating weekend escape, a week-long family retreat, or an extended wellness vacation, Namia River Retreat offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. The resort’s unparalleled commitment to wellness, its lush natural surroundings, and its family-friendly offerings make it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind, reconnect, and rejuvenate together.
For families seeking a sanctuary to heal, explore, and grow, Namia provides a rare opportunity to experience luxury in harmony with nature – an experience that lingers in both mind and body long after the journey home.