OVERVIEW
One of Asia’s top wellness and fitness resorts, Absolute Sanctuary is famous for its results-driven programs, such as its Pilates, fitness and weight-loss retreats. Located in the northern region on the sunny island of Koh Samui, and nestled into a quiet hillside (just about 10 minutes from the coast), Absolute Sanctuary blends comfortable accommodation in a Moroccan-themed setting with a wide assortment of treatments and therapies, helping guests achieve their goals, which range from rejuvenation and cleansing, to strengthening and getting into shape.
It features two yoga studios for ashtanga, hatha, hot, vinyasa, restorative, yin and meditation classes, five hydrotherapy rooms, a sauna, a herbal steam room, a dedicated fitness centre, a Pilates reformer studio and an infinity edge pool.
OVERVIEW
One of Asia’s top wellness and fitness resorts, Absolute Sanctuary is famous for its results-driven programs, such as its Pilates, fitness and weight-loss retreats. Located in the northern region on the sunny island of Koh Samui, and nestled into a quiet hillside (just about 10 minutes from the coast), Absolute Sanctuary blends comfortable accommodation in a Moroccan-themed setting with a wide assortment of treatments and therapies, helping guests achieve their goals, which range from rejuvenation and cleansing, to strengthening and getting into shape.
It features two yoga studios for ashtanga, hatha, hot, vinyasa, restorative, yin and meditation classes, five hydrotherapy rooms, a sauna, a herbal steam room, a dedicated fitness centre, a Pilates reformer studio and an infinity edge pool.
WIDE RANGE OF RETREAT PROGRAMS
With a holistic approach to wellness, this retreat haven is perfect for solo travelers who want to stay or get into shape and move closer to their wellbeing goals. With 22 programs, spanning 15 categories, you will be spoilt for choice. Their selection offers something for everyone and includes interesting options that not only address the fitness and nutrition side of one’s lifestyle, but also a move towards mental wellbeing. The retreat programs include Yoga Holiday, Spa Holiday, Lifestyle Change, Be Fit, Ultimate Fitness, Weight Management, Pilates Reformer Bootcamp, Anti Stress & Burnout, Sleep Well, Rest & Balance, Body Realignment, Mindfulness, Men’s Vitality, and various types of Detoxes (which can include plant-based meals, fasting, detox drinks, colon hydrotherapy, lymphatic drainage, etc). It’s latest addition, the Women’s Holistic Health Program, is an empowering retreat that not only addresses one’s physical and emotional health but also hormonal imbalances through a combination of cleansing therapies, physical activity, nourishing wellness cuisine, pampering body therapies and holistic hormone balancing sessions. This retreat is ideal for all women who need to rebalance, re-energise and revitalise.
All of the programs at Absolute Sanctuary approach individuals from three levels, nurturing mind, body and spirit, inspiring change from within and helping you to transform your life.
Most retreats are available in 3-, 5-, 7- or 10-day options, and can go up to 30 or 60 days (especially for cleanses).
HEALTHY FOOD
The Love Kitchen at Absolute Sanctuary serves up healthy, yet tasty cuisine. The mouthwatering dishes include international, as well as Thai recipes and aren’t entirely vegetarian, still offering some fish and chicken here and there. They are low in calorie and crafted to support individuals who are on a detox retreat. Packed with nutritious ingredients, including superfoods, the produce is locally harvested and organic where possible. Furthermore, the meals are free of chemical additives, refined sugar, and trans fats. Cleansing juices and energy-boosting smoothies are also readily available.
Absolute Sanctuary has successfully made use of its innovative know-how from its sister company Absolute Fit Food in Bangkok (the leading health food delivery in Thailand), and implemented that into its retreat meal plans.
ROOMS
Absolute Sanctuary has 38 rooms, boasting bright yet soothing colors. All rooms have either sea view or pool view and come with a private terrace.
There are three room categories: Sanctuary Superior with a queen-sized bed or two twin-sized beds (usually reserved for retreats); Sanctuary Deluxe with a king-sized bed; and Sanctuary Suites with a four-poster king-sized canopy bed and spacious lounge area.
RATES
A 3-Day Detox Retreat starts at US$1,500.
A 5-Day Yoga Holiday starts at US$1,800.
A 5-Day Destress & Burnout Program starts at US$2,200.
A 7-Day Men’s Vitality Package starts at US$4,000.
WHAT WE LOVE
- We absolutely loved the Pilates reformer classes (groups as well as one-on-ones) and highly recommend going on a Pilates retreat here or simply attending a few of the classes and getting a taste for this amazing technique. You’ll go home feeling honed and toned, with physical results after only three classes.
- Absolute Sanctuary makes it easy to achieve your wellness goals with a structured schedule of excellent daily Pilates reformer and yoga classes, as well as regular delicious and nutritious meals. You don’t need to make any decisions during your retreat, allowing you to free your mind and focus on what’s important – you!
- Absolute Sanctuary also operates as a yoga teacher training centre (Yoga Alliance registered), explaining the high standard of the classes.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Most of your spare time, you’ll be either lounging poolside or in your room. Bring enough books or reading material to keep yourself busy.
Absolute Sanctuary is an adult-friendly resort. So it’s not ideal to bring your children.
POOL
There is a communal infinity edge pool where guests recharge in-between classes and treatments.
SPA & WELLNESS
There is an extensive spa menu, which includes a range of massages, as well as alternative therapies, such as Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Reiki, Chi Nei Tsang, Hypnosis, Craniosacral Therapy, Metta Healing, Spiritual Healing, Astrology, Palmistry, and Bach Flower Remedies. Absolute Sanctuary also offers private sessions with visiting practitioners, which can be booked on top of your retreat program.
There is also a herbal steam room and a FAR infrared sauna room, which perfectly complement all the detox retreats.
TRAVEL IN STYLE
Bring plenty of activewear and athleisure, as well as swimwear to spend those extra hours recharging by the pool.
WHEN YOU SHOULD GO
Best time to visit is from late December – August.
Try to avoid monsoon season from September – November.
ABSOLUTE SANCTUARY
88 Moo.5, Cheongmon, Tambol Bophut
Amphur Koh Samui
Suratthani 84320
Thailand
Tel: +66 7760 1190
www.absolutesanctuary.com
