10 February, 2016
Song
Saa Private Island is definitely the pinnacle of an
unexplored eco hideaway. Founded by Rory and Melita Hunter after
they fell in love with the islands while sailing the Cambodian
coast, this sanctum of sustainable luxury is a paragon of island
chic and green credentials combined in the azure-hued Koh Rong
archipelago. Phew, deep breath. Once on the island you follow
meandering palm trees around the restaurants, villas and communal
areas. The mantra on the island is ‘do as little or as much as you
want’. Private pools, beaches and the ocean are at your doorstep
and you can pass hours simply slipping into the laid back rhythm of
the island. So removed from the constraints of ‘normal life’ is
this haven, that it even has its own time zone, half an hour behind
the mainland.
Residences are crafted locally from recycled timbers and natural
materials from tree species and the bows of passing fishing boats.
The décor blends Cambodian textiles with Moroccan and Mediterranean
accents. Outdoor living areas have been designed with views across
the ocean to create linear access to the island’s beauty.
Guests fill out a personalised form before arrival and their
meals, mini bar and activities are catered to their tastes and
desires. Dishes on the menu include fresh seafood not found
anywhere else in the world. Dinner plans are delivered as
thoughtful notes, invitations to fresh fish barbeques and tasting
menus.
Yes, and it’s on the beach.
There is a private sanctuary with internationally trained
therapists, a foundation aimed at conservation and education on the
island and activities like paddle boarding, hikes in the mangrove
forest and fitness sessions.
The Song Saa Foundation was founded to build on the relationship
between the owners and the local fishing and island community on
neighbouring Koh Rong. Education is key both for the children and
villagers in different ways. A trip across the strait to the local
village displays the ways the two work together to conserve the
environment and improve life for the community. Composting and
recycling are also important aspects of this to both decrease the
reliance on chemical fertilisers and also to prevent plastic
pollution of the rivers and oceans.
Private infinity pools, endless beaches and the ocean on your
doorstep. However, the island is championed for its unspoilt coral
reefs, with boats not allowed within 100 metres of the shoreline.
This has helped to provide abundant fishing hauls for the local
villagers. If you find yourself staring longingly at the glistening
turquoise water, try deep-sea diving, Song Saa’s best kept
secret.
Koh Rong Archipelago, Cambodia,
