Located on the serene island of Koh Chang, The Retreat Koh Chang is a true sanctuary that harmoniously blends a zen ambiance with a paradisiacal setting. Far from the hustle and bustle of Thailand’s more popular destinations, this boutique hotel with its minimalist design offers a cocoon of serenity, surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s an invitation to rejuvenate and find tranquility in an exceptional environment.
A Still Tranquil Destination
Despite its 429 km², making it the second largest island in Thailand, Koh Chang stands out for its peaceful atmosphere and preserved natural setting, offering an ideal alternative for those looking to escape the crowds of more touristy islands like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Koh Phi Phi.
Often described as an oasis of tranquility, most of Koh Chang is covered by a tropical forest that is part of the Mu Ko Chang National Marine Park. Its lush vegetation and numerous waterfalls, including Klong Plu and Than Mayom, delight hiking and wilderness enthusiasts.
For those who prefer lounging, Koh Chang also boasts stunning beaches such as White Sand Beach, Klong Prao Beach, and Kai Bae Beach, with clear waters perfect for diving and snorkeling. It’s an ideal destination for travelers looking to combine relaxation and adventure in a preserved natural setting.
Zen Ambiance in a Tropical Setting
The Retreat Koh Chang is located about twenty minutes from the ferry dock, a few minutes from Kai Bae Beach, and just a few kilometers from Klong Prao Beach and Lonely Beach.
While Kai Bae Beach is one of the island’s most popular beaches, with numerous shops and restaurants within walking distance from The Retreat Koh Chang, the few meters separating the boutique hotel from the main road are enough to distance it from any outside hustle.
As soon as I step out of my tuk-tuk cab, the tranquility of the place is unmistakable… The soundtrack is a few bird songs and the rustle of leaves dancing in the wind. The sense of calm is total and immediate.
Boutique Spirit and Minimalist Design
From the hotel reception, the tone is set. The welcome, both professional and warm, takes place in a contemporary, airy, and light-filled space. The refined and timeless blend of materials subtly extends the surrounding nature.
The sleek, functional design of the premises is a fair translation of the concepts of Kanso – a fundamental principle of Japanese aesthetics emphasizing simplicity and the elimination of the unnecessary – and Shizen – a Japanese principle involving the integration of nature and the use of natural materials to create spaces that blend into their surroundings. Here, everything is designed to offer optimal living comfort while respecting local culture and sustainability.
The boutique hotel’s 38 rooms are divided into four categories. The Retreat Ocean Suite offers breathtaking ocean views from its balcony and bathtub, while the Deluxe Pool Access Rooms feature private terraces with direct access to a pool.
On the first floor, the Deluxe Balcony Rooms feature balconies overlooking the pool and lush gardens, with partial views of the ocean. Wow effect guaranteed, even under a rather stormy sky…
All rooms are spacious (45m² for first-floor rooms, 55m² for ground-floor rooms) and well-equipped (air conditioning, mini-bar, safe, flat-screen TV). You can choose between a king-size bed or two queen-size beds, and a beautiful bathroom with a shower and double vanity.
Echoing the outdoor spaces, the room decor uses natural materials, mainly teak wood, local artworks, and handmade antiques. The result is simple and elegant, with a very cozy feel.
A Wide Range of Services
Despite its boutique spirit, The Retreat Koh Chang does not fall short when it comes to the services offered. The hotel offers a number of top-quality facilities, including The GlassHouse, a fitness room cleverly concealed behind untinted glass that lets you work out while admiring the view.
The Retreat Koh Chang has four pools in total: two relaxation pools, a kids’ pool, and the main pool, which offers an infinity view of the Gulf of Thailand and beautiful lounge areas to bask in the sun.
Yoga classes, water sports equipment (kayaking, paddleboarding, diving), treatments at The Retreat Koh Chang Spa, an open-air cinema, cooking classes, a speedboat service for transfers and island tours, as well as custom excursions and hikes complete the range of services. Quality Dining, From Farm to Table
Quality Dining, From Farm to Table
In terms of cuisine, The Retreat Koh Chang mainly draws inspiration from Asian culinary culture, while also offering some internationally inspired dishes. The food is of high quality, often sourced from the hotel’s own garden or its own farms.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are enjoyed on the magnificent terrace of the aptly named Ocean Terrace restaurant-bar. For an aperitif, the drink menu is varied—I opted for a Pink Lady—and the view is absolutely stunning.
The many clouds didn’t allow me to enjoy a clear sunset, but it didn’t detract from the charm of the place as night fell. Retreat Koh Chang is a true paradise on an island still magnificently unspoilt by mass tourism.
Good to Know
Like most Thai islands, Koh Chang is accessible by ferry from the mainland. Once there, most transportation is by scooter or tuk-tuk taxi. Access to The Retreat Koh Chang is greatly facilitated by the transfer service provided by the boutique hotel.
While Retreat Koh Chang welcomes visitors all year round, the rainy season, from June to October, is usually synonymous with frequent showers. In my experience, these showers don’t last long but they are frequent… It’s better to plan your stay from November to February to enjoy the best weather conditions.
To check rates and availability at The Retreat Koh Chang, go here.
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