There are places that don’t live up to expectation, but the opposite is true of Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa in Koh Samui. It had been on my wish list and my stars aligned when my friends got married in Koh Samui.
Carved into the hillside of the lush Thailand jungle, with panoramic views over an azure blue lagoon, an idyllic beach, and a centuries old cave once used by Buddhist monks, there is a magic about Kamalaya that cannot be depicted in pictures.
I was transported to a place of calm from the moment I was picked up, with tranquil music to ease me into a zen like state. I had the first of many pinch myself moments when I arrived, feeling an instant release from the worries of everyday life as I soaked up the peacefulness and beauty of this heavenly haven.
There is an ‘anything goes’ approach at Kamalaya, catering to those with specific wellness goals in mind, as well as those who just want to go with the flow. Take part in the daily activities or do your own thing. Venture into the outside world if you want, although I couldn’t find any reason, wanting to make the most of every second at Kamalaya.
If pampering is your thing, the program packages come with more than enough treatments to make you feel like a princess (or prince, of course). And the spa sanctuary is out of this world uh-mazing, with uninterrupted views of the lagoon.
Daily activities include yoga, pilates, aqua aerobics, morning walks and cooking classes.
The philosophy is food served as close to its natural state as possible, without processed or artificial ingredients, and organic wherever possible. You have the choice of ordering from the detox and ideal weight menu, or a la carte. Whatever you choose, it’s all delicious, satisfying food that aims to nourish and restore health. There’s an impressive signature juice and smoothie menu, coffee, beer and organic wine available too.
The icing on the cake for me was the smiling staff at the beach on hand with a never ending supply of coconuts on hand – I have an addiction to coconuts, so this is my idea of h-e-a-v-e-n.
And then there are the fascinating people you meet at Kamalaya. I had the fortune of making a very special friend in a gorgeous and inspiring English girl (Kitty, pictured above).
I left Kamalaya feeling blissfully relaxed and rejuvenated, and with every intention of going back.
The magic of Kamalaya is something that really does need to be experienced to be believed.
