Last Updated on May 3, 2024

Renewal Amidst Tranquillity: Discovering Balance at Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai

February with its chilly temperatures and short daylight hours, often finds itself at the bottom of my list of preferred months. The dreary demands of work coupled with relentless cold, rain, and sunshine deprivation can undoubtedly dampen one’s spirits. But what better way to break free from this monotony than with a trip to Thailand? Imagine escaping to the tranquil haven of Aleenta Retreat, a boutique wellness resort nestled amidst the verdant mountains that surround Chiang Mai, a vibrant city in northern Thailand, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, bustling markets, and stunning natural landscapes.

This exquisite retreat offers both short and extended wellness programs, providing a much-needed respite from the winter blues. Surrounded by nature’s beauty, Aleenta serves as a sanctuary for rejuvenation and self-discovery. It’s a place where you can leave behind the stresses of daily life and immerse yourself in healing practices, nourishing your mind, body, and soul.

Location

Aleenta Retreat is nestled at the base of Doi Suthep Mountain in Chiang Mai, cradled by idyllic countryside, lush rice fields, flowing rivers, and towering peaks. A mere stroll from the retreat lies Wat Umong temple, an oasis for contemplative walks amidst its serene lotus ponds, ancient banyan trees, and mysterious underground passageways. Venture further up the mountain to explore the sacred grounds of Wat Pah Lat and Wat Doi Suthep.

The retreat is conveniently located within the city limits, just a 15-minute drive from the historic Old Town, while Chaing Mai International Airport is a short twelve-minute journey away. Chiang Mai is adorned with ornate temples, charming coffee houses, and excellent cafes, bars and restaurants.

It is also renowned for its vibrant arts and crafts scene, steeped in rich cultural heritage. The city boasts a plethora of artisans specialising in weaving, pottery, and wood carving. One of its hallmark attractions is its bustling markets, including Bann Kang Wat artisan market and Chiang Mai Night Markets, I loved the lively atmosphere of the night market where the air is filled with the scent of spices and the sights dazzle with colourful textiles crafted from locally sourced cotton. You can spend hours wandering through the labyrinthine alleys and discovering, food stalls, artisan workshops and galleries and stopping for coffee breaks or even a massage. I recommend leaving some room in your suitcase to bring home memories of Chiang Mai!

How to Get to Chaing Mai

The most convenient and fastest way to travel to Chiang Mai is by air, with direct flights available from major cities in Thailand and international destinations. Alternatively, for those seeking a scenic and adventurous journey, the train offers a leisurely option from Bangkok, allowing travellers to soak in the countryside views along the way. We took a direct 70-minute domestic flight from Bangkok, followed by a short taxi ride through Chiang Mai’s leafy Umong district to Aleenta Retreat where we were met by a customary warm Thai welcome with cool hand towels, delicious, seeded rice cakes and refreshing juice before being shown to our villa.

About Aleenta Chiang Mai

Aleenta, translating to ‘a rewarding life’, encapsulates the essence of the hotel collection’s ethos since its inception in 2006. Beginning with the acclaimed Aleenta Hua Hin Resort & Spa, and later expanding to include the enchanting Aleenta Phuket Phang Nga Resort & Spa.

This elegant boutique retreat, which opened its doors in April 2023, radiates an unmatched sense of privacy. Upon entering through the front gate, the absence of vehicles inside creates an immediate sense of tranquillity. The serene compound-like layout resembles a small village, offering a secure sanctuary for guests seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The resort proudly showcases a unique architectural fusion, seamlessly blending modern and traditional design elements. Notably, the four antique Thai teak dwellings stand as exquisite examples, meticulously reassembled like intricate jigsaw puzzles. With stilted floor plans, wooden shingle roofs, and intricate motifs originating from Lamphun province in northern Thailand.

These structures likely date back over a century, have been transformed by the innovative vision of the Bangkok-based architecture studio Spacematter. The historic dwellings harmoniously coexist with contemporary terrazzo-styled four-storey buildings, the result is an adept integration of old-world charm and modern luxury.

At its heart is a courtyard and a captivating swimming pool, flanked by frangipani trees and adorned with strings of Chinese lanterns during our visit, celebrating the Chinese New Year. Surrounding this focal point are a myriad of facilities including an elegant two-story yoga pavilion, a serene spa, an exquisitely appointed library, a small crafts boutique, and a vibrant restaurant and bar. Pathways crafted from pale grey concrete and brick wind through lush green gardens, accented by herb beds and bamboo trees housed in large white urns and planter pots, creating a quiet oasis for guests to explore and enjoy.

Accommodation

The resort offers a range of accommodation options, totalling 44 rooms and suites. These include spacious one-and-two-bedroom pool residences, as well as a stunning four-bedroom teak villa complete with a private swimming pool. Each of these spaces effortlessly blends traditional Thai design with a serene palette of natural hues and sophisticated furnishings, coupled with modern amenities.

The jewel in the crown is the four-bedroom Teak Villa, meticulously crafted from antique golden teak collected and restored by the owner. This unique villa provides an opportunity for groups of family and friends to immerse themselves in a traditional Thai living experience, while still enjoying the conveniences of contemporary luxury.

Our One Bedroom Pool Villa was set over two floors. Accessed through a private gate, it welcomes guests with a charming small terrace adorned with a plunge pool and a comfortable sunbed.

Full-length glass doors lead into the stylish lounge area, where gleaming polished wood floors set the stage for tasteful decor in hues of burnt terracotta and soothing blues. The seamless blend of modern design with traditional Thai influences is evident, highlighted by rich dark wood and cool stone accents.

A plush sofa, coffee table, TV and deep blue rug, add to the cosy ambience with the addition of a well-stocked mini, bar and tea and coffee-making facilities. Transitioning effortlessly from the lounge is a functional area equipped with essential amenities, including a secure safe, hairdryer, ample luggage storage facilities, and spacious wardrobes stocked with luxurious cotton robes, pyjamas and slippers, ensuring a truly indulgent experience.

Moving to the wash area – a separate shower and toilet facilities with antique copper fittings, accompanied by two copper basins atop a sleek black stone vanity unit. Cool stone tiles, embellished with copper metal strips, lend an air of sophistication to the space. Aromatic bath products and useful travel accessories are provided.

Upstairs, the bedroom, complete with its own shower and toilet facilities, offers a picturesque view overlooking the sitting room from a raised platform. A large pendant light suspended from the high ceiling, draped with delicate white fabric, adds a touch of refinement, while dark wooden rafters evoke a sense of old-world charm. A luxuriously comfortable king-size bed is adorned with soft pillows and 400-thread Egyptian cotton sheets.

Modern lighting controls, iPod and iDock with a large music library, air conditioning, international plug sockets, USB ports, and WiFi are all provided to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay. Given the opportunity, I would have gladly extended my stay in this stunning villa. What made it truly exceptional was the immaculate personalised service and thoughtful details, such as the evening snacks and the card with a brief bedtime story. These small touches elevated the experience, making it feel like a home away from home.

Food and drink

The Garden restaurant is housed within one of the antique teakwood buildings. Spread gracefully between wooden pillars on the ground floor, the restaurant embraces an open-air concept that seamlessly merges with its lush surroundings. Wooden rafters, with a cool white marble floor and a soft palette that exudes an understated elegance. An open-plan kitchen adds an element of culinary theatre, inviting guests to witness the chefs at work.

Here you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast includes a light buffet and cooked Asian and Western dishes to order, plus fresh fruit, juices, health tonics and my not-so-healthy choice, but quite delicious French toast!

Lunch and dinner at The Garden are meticulously curated to showcase the rich flavours of traditional Northern Thai Lanna cuisine, complemented by innovative Western dishes infused with a Lanna twist. Emphasizing the use of high-quality produce, and a commitment to catering to diverse dietary preferences.

The kitchen provides an array of options including plant-based, keto, and low-sugar/carb alternatives, ensuring that every guest can indulge in a nutritious and satisfying dining experience.

Dishes include Keto Pla Chon, Nan River chana argus fish filet served with crushed Chiang Mai avocado, quail eggs and pecan nuts, and chargrilled Jumbo River prawn with Khao Soi angel hair pasta, roasted pepper relish & steamed greens or my favourite Thai classics like Pad Thai and Green Thai curry.

We spent our first evening in the seductive 1892 Bar, an exquisite haven for the senses, boasting a polished teak floor and a raftered roof supported by ancient dark wood tree trunks. From the balcony, a captivating view of the resort’s spiritual blessing garden below.

We were serenaded by a pianist playing classic tunes, setting the perfect mood for the evening. The bar serves an eclectic selection of spirits and cocktails. We sipped on deliciously spicy margaritas created by the skilled hands of our charming barman. Additionally, if you’re feeling peckish – a selection of Thai izakaya-style bar snacks, including – Pulled Wild Boar Tacos, Teriyaki Rainbow Trout, and vegan Khao Soi Gyoza.

Activities and Spa at Aleenta

Despite being fully booked during our stay, it never felt crowded. Staying at this retreat was a delightfully halcyon experience, whether you choose to indulge in spa treatments, and yoga classes, or simply relax by the pool and read a book.

Aleenta showcases Ayurah Wellness, renowned for its world-class holistic wellness retreats, mindfulness meditation, and personalised programs. Guests can indulge in wellness cuisine with vegetarian options. Your stay includes three complimentary daily sessions of yoga, Qi Gong, meditation, and mindfulness, with additional sessions can be booked upon request. The yoga studio boasts a serene view of the pool, where I attended a class every morning. One of our yoga sessions was held on the open-air platform, offering a blissfully peaceful start to the day. For those wanting a gym workout, there is a also well-equipped fitness room.

Aleenta offers a menu of holistic wellness retreats and tailor-made programs which are available for 3, 5 or 7 nights. Each retreat is complemented by nourishing cuisine and an immersive Wellness cooking class. Moreover, guests benefit from personalised nutritionist-led plant-based options. Guests also have the unique opportunity to work with a resident ‘master healer,’ fostering optimal wellness and harmony amidst the serene ambience.

The exquisite Spa is situated in the courtyard overlooking the pool, it provides a sanctuary for relaxation with holistic therapies and bespoke spa experiences.

Sustainability at Aleenta

It’s good to know that Aleenta prioritises sustainability. As Thailand’s first hotel group to eliminate single-use plastics in 2018, Aleenta remains committed to responsible tourism. The resort’s low-rise, reclaimed wood infrastructure preserves the local ecosystem while maximizing natural features. Through local sourcing, recycling, water conservation, and reduced carbon emissions, Aleenta contributes to environmental stewardship and community engagement. Continuing to align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, Aleenta ensures that each guest experience rejuvenates the spirit while nurturing the planet and its inhabitants.

Summary

Aleenta Retreat offers the ultimate hideaway to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s a chance to immerse oneself in the serenity of northern Thailand, to reconnect with nature’s rhythms, and to rediscover that elusive balance and vitality. Whether diving into wellness programs or simply finding solace amidst the verdurous surroundings, each moment spent here promises an unforgettable journey of rejuvenation and self-discovery. I felt my spirit replenished, and my energy renewed ready to take on the next part of my Thailand adventure.

Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai
189 Moo 14, Suthep Sub-district Muang-Chiang Mai District Chiang Mai Province 50200
https://www.aleenta.com/chiang-mai/