The new retreat Kapuhala raises the bar at Koh Samui melding health and hip.
A fresh concept in healthy living is making waves at Thailand’s boutique getaway, Koh Samui. Having opened the island’s first fine-dining plant-based restaurant Halapua recently (Nov 2019) to rave reviews, the new Kapuhala Koh Samui Tropical Farm and Training Retreat (opens 15 Dec 2019) takes well-being to a whole new level.
Tented Villa
Kapuhala (meaning “hidden tree” in Hawaiian and for the brand it represents hidden potential) combines sports training, plant-based diet and eco-conscious living. Attracting the athletically-inclined, corporate high-achievers and those looking to enhance body and mind in a forward-looking setup, this is the latest outpost for the fitness-focused lifestyle brand with bases in Sicily and Hong Kong. What sets it apart is a well-being proposition structured on circadian rhythm. Bookended with sunrise and sunset yoga sessions, the daily structure aims to restore oneself to nature’s clock.
Its five stylish, luxe tented villas ( 55sqm, semi-permanent, easily deconstructed to minimise the ecological footprint ) are positioned to face the rising sun, inviting nature in to kick start guests’ circadian rhythm. Outdoor breakfast bathed in natural light accompanied by cleansing juices, allow the body to warm to its optimum. Breakfast can even be extended to midday for those who prefer to exercise in a fasted state.
Gochujang Daikon
Fitness classes are offered in the afternoon when the body temperature and mental dexterity are at their peak. There’s an indoor fitness studio with functional training equipment for high-intensity interval training, or strength training and resistance training, a yoga studio and 25-metre outdoor swimming pool, indoor and poolside spin bikes, as well as specialised equipment for guests preparing for triathlons and other competitive races.
Mushroom Garden
Here, dining is both restorative and celebratory. “We have created a new restaurant concept which connects gourmet plant-based dining to fitness and social living,” says executive chef Gregory Hill, of the innovative restaurant Halapua (tree flower). The social part extends to the rooftop mixology lounge where the finest spirits from around the world, farm-to-table fresh juices and herbs, and the mixologist’s own hand-crafted bitters come together.
While other retreats eschew work, Kapuhala has a dedicated co-working space to facilitate peak performance output. After all, a clear mind engenders productivity. By Angela Goh kapuhala.com/koh-samui ◼
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© This article was first published in Dec-Jan 2020 edition of World Travel Magazine.