A rare jewel has surfaced in Cambodia’s untouched Koh Rong Archipelago - Song Saa Private Island, an intimate 27-villa luxury resort spanning two pristine islands, Koh Ouen and Koh Bong. Connected by a footbridge over a marine reserve, the all-inclusive resort provides an oasis for sophisticated travelers seeking luxury and relaxation amid the simple beauty of its natural surroundings.
Making its official U.S. debut in January 2013, Song Saa’s commitment to community and sustainability shines through in its unique, highly individual design to ensure a guest experience as authentic as it is exclusive. Inspired by Cambodian fishing villages, the resort features over-water buildings, thatch roofs, rough-hewn natural timbers and driftwood furnishings.
“Being the first to develop a private island in Cambodia, our desire was to create a sanctuary of uncompromising luxury that would set the benchmark in sustainable development for the region,” said owner Rory Hunter, who along with his wife Melita oversaw every aspect of the resort’s creation. “This project was truly a labor of love, and our commitment to the preservation of this magnificent environment will always remain at the forefront of everything we do,” Hunter added.
The resort’s 27 one- and two-bedroom villas, perched overwater, on the beach or in the jungle, all provide uninterrupted views of the dramatic sunsets, seascapes and starry evenings that are commonplace for the region. In addition, all villas feature king-sized beds, exquisite bathrooms complete with twin basins, oversized baths, indoor and outdoor showers, private pools and natural finishes which seamlessly bring the outdoors in. For those guests in search of a discrete island hideaway, the two-bedroom Royal Villa offers exceptional privacy with its own jetty for arrivals and departures.
At the center of the resort is the 70-seat Vista Restaurant and Bar - an overwater lounge and restaurant offering panoramic, 360-degree ocean views. The casual, elegant atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for guests looking to unwind with a simple, yet sophisticated menu featuring a delicate fusion of traditional Khmer and western cuisines. The breakfast, lunch and dinner menus offer an extensive variety of imaginatively prepared and presented dishes of locally sourced fish and produce that are based on five elements: Salt, Heat, Raw, Scent and Sweet. For more casual fare, the resort’s beachfront Driftwood Bar offers tapas, gourmet pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven and BBQ.
Rounding out the property’s offerings are a breathtaking wedding venue, large infinity swimming pool, yoga and meditation center and Song Saa Sanctuary, the resort’s spa where guests can take advantage of two private spa villas located amidst the island’s rainforest and along the water’s edge. Song Saa’s focus on relaxation and rejuvenation has resulted in the creation of a treatment menu featuring herbs, plants, sands and iron-rich stones indigenous to the island. For those looking for more adventure, the resort offers an array of activities, including sailing, diving, kayaking and snorkeling.
The property’s extensive sustainability program aims to protect the surrounding natural environment and support local communities. Song Saa employs a team of four conservationists and has developed a range of personalized ecological programs for guests to experience the area’s flora and fauna, as well as the resort’s nearby villages. Partnerships with these local communities ensure the islands never lose the natural beauty that makes them so special.
The enclave is located just 35 minutes by boat from the port of Sihanoukville, which is serviced by Sihanoukville Airport. With multiple weekly flights to Siem Reap, the airport connects Song Saa with the temples of Angkor, most notably, Angkor Wat. Sihanouvkille is situated approximately 115 miles southwest of the capital of Phnom Penh, where Cambodia’s primary international airport is located. Most of the islands in this area remain undeveloped: a deserted oasis of virgin rain forests, tropics reefs and glistening white beaches.
Song Saa is a member of the exclusive Virtuoso Travel Network. Rates for the all-inclusive resort start at $1,336 per villa, per night, based on double occupancy and are exclusive of tax, spa treatments and motorized water sports. For more information on Song Saa Private Island or to book a reservation, please visit www.songsaa.com or email reservations@songsaa.com.
