Namia River Retreat review – a wellness-focused hideaway in Hoi An’s tranquil islet

Namia River Retreat is a luxury wellness resort that fuses traditional Vietnamese heritage with modern comfort. With 60 single-level villas, lush herb gardens, and riverside spa rituals, Namia isn’t just a place to stay — it’s a place to reset.

As an architect and frequent traveller, I’m drawn to design-forward spaces that offer both aesthetic brilliance and impeccable service, and Namia River Resort delivered on every level.

Location:

• Private, Peaceful, and Close to Hoi An
• Secluded Yet Connected
• Only a 10-minute boat ride from central Hoi An, Namia offers a peaceful retreat while keeping the lantern-lit streets and markets within easy reach.

The islet experience

Surrounded by still river waters and thick mangroves, the islet hums with natural beauty. Think birdsong at dawn and the occasional boat drifting past. It’s rural Vietnam in its most poetic form.

Design:

• The Resort is designed for rest and reconnection
• Natural Design Aesthetic
• Each villa is its own private oasis. High timber ceilings, organic stone floors, and handwoven textures create a calming, grounded ambiance. A sunken stone bathtub at the foot of the bed—facing your private pool and the river—adds a dreamy, spa-like touch.

Thoughtful details:

From herbal tea sets and essential oil diffusers to cloud-soft bathrobes, every detail feels intentional and soothing.

Sleep quality:

Despite the size of the resort, the layout preserves intimacy. Thick foliage between villas ensures complete privacy. Paired with blackout curtains and plush bedding, it made for the most restful sleep I’ve had in months.

• Dining: Fresh, Flavourful, and Deeply Rooted in Tradition
  Wellness-Focused Cuisine.
  
  
• Namia’s two main dining spots—The Merchant (elegant) and The Fisherman (casual riverside)—serve locally inspired dishes with a wellness spin.

Don’t miss:

• Gà Nướng Sả – Lemongrass-spiced chicken with smoky, fire-grilled flavor.
• Bò Cuốn Lá Lốt – Betel leaf-wrapped organic beef, a local favorite elevated to resort-level finesse.

Breakfast & in-room dining

Mornings start with comforting Phở, prepared with slow-simmered beef broth and fresh herbs. Room service was equally impressive, always prompt, beautifully presented, and often delivered with handwritten notes and cool lemongrass towels.

Wellness & amenities: healing through nature

The riverside spa is the resort’s crown jewel. Designed to let in the breeze and birdsong, it focuses on traditional Vietnamese herbology, with a range of treatments using galangal, holy basil, and fresh ginger.

Don’t miss:

• Vietnamese acupressure facial – deeply detoxifying and glow-inducing.
• Herb-infused full body massage – calming, therapeutic, and aromatic.
• Hot herbal compress therapy – relieves muscle tension and enhances circulation.
• Foot reflexology with lemongrass oil – grounding and invigorating after travel.
• Herbal steam bath – a cleansing ritual using native herbs to open pores and relax muscles.
• Traditional Vietnamese cupping – for energy balancing and muscle recovery.

Highly recommended: the Vietnamese acupressure facial — my skin glowed for days.

Yoga & mindfulness

The light-filled yoga pavilion hosts daily sunrise classes led by experienced instructors. Sessions are tailored to your energy level—ideal whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner seeking gentle flow.

Don’t miss:

• Sunrise yoga sessions overlooking the river – peaceful and revitalizing.
• Evening yin yoga – deep relaxation with guided breathwork.
• Private one-on-one sessions – fully personalized to your needs.
• Mindful meditation workshops – cultivate calm and mental clarity.
  The light-filled yoga pavilion hosts daily sunrise classes led by experienced instructors. Sessions are tailored to your energy level—ideal whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner seeking gentle flow.

Family-friendly and inclusive

Thinking of brining the family to Namia, but want to spend some time for yourself too? Namia River Resort proves that wellness retreats can be a family-friendly experience. The Namia kids’ club is a beautifully designed space filled with handcrafted toys and nature-based activities, allowing parents guilt-free time to unwind. The staff are kind and caring, and there’s even a nurse on site in case of any tumbles or tummy aches.

Staff & service: heartfelt Vietnamese hospitality

The service here is exceptional—professional, intuitive, and full of heart. From preparing a custom soapberry hair rinse to arranging a late checkout with tea and snacks, the team went above and beyond without ever feeling overbearing.

Final takeaway: is it worth it?

If you’re craving a wellness retreat in Vietnam that combines cultural depth, contemporary comfort, and soul-soothing serenity, Namia River Retreat is a perfect fit. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, it’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Need-to-know info

• Check-in/out: 2:00 PM / 12:00 PM
• Wi-Fi: Fast, free, and available throughout the property
• Pet-friendly: No
• Transfers: Complimentary boat and buggy service
• Eco-friendly practices: Solar panels, compostable toiletries, and organic herb gardens
• Wellness highlights: Daily yoga, herbal spa treatments, plant-based menus

Ready to recharge?

Craving a riverside sanctuary that nourishes both body and spirit? Book your stay at Namia River Retreat and immerse yourself in a world where heritage meets holistic wellness.

Address: Trần Nhân Tông/232 ward, Cẩm Châu, Hội An, Quảng Nam 51000, Vietnam

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Phone number: +84 235 3969 888 – Website – FB – IG – Reservations