An Lam Retreats Saigon River Hotel

Vietnam

Stepping back from the brouhaha synonymous with Vietnam's ever-frenetic Ho Chi Minh City is a breeze at this oasis-like urban sanctuary. Set on the languid banks of the Saigon river, ensconced in a thicket of greenery, it’s hard to believe you’re little more than a 20-minute scenic speedboat ride from the heart of the city.

Contemporary Vietnamese architecture and a tropical, modernist vernacular dashed with colonial-style accents steal the show across the boutique estate. The former private home leans into all-natural materials – the owner was, in fact, a furniture maker, so attention to artisan craftsmanship is a given – heroing native wood, Thanh Hoa granite, hand-crafted rattan furniture, handmade textiles and Bat Trang mosaics.

Framed by fragrant frangipani, a range of 35 light-filled suites and sweeping villas – some with private pools and sun decks – give a choice between riverfront views and garden enclaves. Large in scale, each offers chic bathrooms and numerous lounging areas – great for those first jet-lagged days when you don’t want to have to venture far to find tranquillity. Indeed, each suite comes with a private butler, somewhat of a welcome surprise when you consider the palatable price tag.

Mornings might start with sun salutations overlooking the water or perhaps a treatment at the jungle-shrouded spa. And, as the sultry heat of the day kicks in, a peaceful teak-dressed pool offers cooling respite. On the food front, a farm-to-table mantra leads here, with most ingredients coming from the kitchen garden and nearby farms. Signature restaurant Sen delivers modern Vietnamese classics from a prime open-air, waterside spot; there’s the option for treehouse private dining; and the stylish cocktail lounge offers globetrotting bar snacks and a solid drinks list with local fruits, herbs and botanical tinctures well represented.

For those looking for an opportunity to reconnect with nature as a more peaceful part of a city stay, it’s an ideal choice.

Doubles from £148. 00 84 274 378 5555, anlam.com

Words by Blossom Green.

This review was taken from the February 2024 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.