Considered one of the top 100 island resorts in the world, Song Saa Private Island Resort sets a new benchmark in luxury and sustainability.
Words by Mira Soyza
Photography by Song Saa Private Island Resort
If you love the idea of living in your own slice of private paradise, head over to Cambodia’s Koh Rong Archipelago. Here, in the beautiful blue waters 300kms south of the Gulf of Thailand—among a cluster of 60 islands—lie two pristine private islets called Koh Ouen and Koh Bong, also nicknamed Song Saa which means ‘The Sweethearts’ in Khmer.
On these natural wonders, sits the stunning Song Saa Island Resort—a secluded retreat that will take you on a physical and spiritual journey as you breathe in the delicious fresh air of the virgin rainforest, marvel at the vibrant colours of tropical reefs, stroll along the glistening turquoise beaches and welcome the arrival of rare hornbills that land on your balcony.
Song Saa is Cambodia’s first private island resort consisting of 27 villas (9 overwater, 11 in the jungle, and 7 with ocean views), each immaculately designed, each serviced by a ratio of about six staffers to one villa.
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The Magnificent Hideaway
Inspired by the Cambodian fishing villages, the Song Saa Island Resort is built from the ground up using sustainable materials that blend with the tropical environment and which complement the beauty of the islands’ natural surroundings. To give it the ‘rustic chic’ overall feel, features such as over-water buildings, thatch roofs, rough-hewn natural timber and drift wood furnishings are incorporated into the design of the resort.
The island is situated in a self-made marine sanctuary, a no-take zone covering 247 acres and extending more than 656 feet out from the farthest edge of the coral reefs. A team of marine biologists ensure all is well within its underwater world, while the resort practises recycling and waste initiatives and is even involved in sustainability projects in nearby villages.
The Villas
Each of these villas has an intimate feel and yet is designed to overlook the ocean and allow its guests to enjoy the full spellbinding spectacle of the expansive Indochina horizon. You can freely luxuriate in the uninterrupted view of sunrise or sunset as you take a dip in the private pool and sip cocktails from your private deck —or as you shower looking out into the ocean.
The Room & Breakfast rates start at USD840 for a double bedroom per night with generous dining choices prepared by a world-class chef and his culinary team. Staying true to their promise of promoting sustainability, the kitchen uses grown ingredients and seafood that are obtained from the local fishermen.
If you prefer a fully-inclusive stay, the rate starts from USD1,400 for a double-bed room, which includes all meals, daily surprises from the kitchen and unlimited supply of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. You’ll be spoilt with first class service from the moment you step foot on the island.
“Apart from providing our guests with the experience of a magical private island, virgin rainforest, white sandy beaches, calm emerald waters and culinary variety, we also ensure that they receive the most intuitive and caring service,” comments Co-Founder and CEO of Song Saa, Rory Hunter.
Discover the Wonders
The magnificent private island offers a full suite of tailored activities to cater to their guests’ preferences and needs. Looking for relaxation and calming activity? Head over to the Spa & Wellness Sanctuary or Yoga & Meditation Centre. If you’re one of those seeking for something a little more adrenaline-inducing, explore the activities that the island has to offer including an island-hopping tour, rainforest tour, snorkelling, paddleboarding, kayaking or a picnic trip to the beautiful Five Mile beach.
Make Your Way to Paradise
Song Saa can be accessed via both Phnom Penh and Siem Reap Airport. If you opt to travel through Siem Reap, catch either a Cambodia Angkor Air flight at 4.30pm on Monday or 2.25 pm between Tuesday and Sunday. You will go on a 50-minute journey directly to Sihanoukville International Airport (KOS), where a chauffeur will be ready to take you to the port.
If you are travelling through Phnom Penh, you can hop into the luxury private vehicles prepared to take you on a 3.5-hour ride from the airport to Sihanoukville Port. Alternatively, you can take a 40-minute flight with Bayon Air directly to Sihanoukville.
To gain access to the island, hop on a 35-minute boat ride from Sihanoukville Port, a harbour that is flanked by a string of beaches along its entire coastline
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