When it comes to Saraburi province, travelers always regard it as pit stop for a trip to northern Thailand. But the good thing about being unseen is that many parts in the province are still largely in pristine condition, waiting to be discovered. Among them is a new and rare gem, The Soul Luxury Wellness and Mindfulness Resort.
Nestled in Kaeng Koi district’s Phra Puttabhat Noi valley, The Soul offers a landscape similar to China’s worldfamous Guilin mountains in a less grand scale. It’s probably because both are limestone mountains.
Together with the The Soul’s story, it’s highly likely that this area will be the prominent on the tourist map soon. But do not let the name fool you. This is not just another luxury wellness resort for the mind and body, but also a sanctuary for the soul.
INTO THE EMBRACE OF NATURE
The Soul is only 90 minutes from Bangkok by car, neither too close and nor too far. Thanks to its ‘unseen’ surroundings, however, once you enter the premises, the hustle and bustle is melted into the atmosphere of peace, almost to the point of stillness. We sense the unique charm of this place, starting from the curving road leading up to the lobby which is paved with real natural cobblestone cubes.
THE JOY OF DETAILS EXTRAORDINAIRE
If God is in the details as said by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, one of the greatest and influential architects of the 20th century, The Soul must have taken it literally and with a fun twist. Every corner of the resort is peppered with details and patterns in vibrant colors that invokes exuberant joy, while still exuding luxurious charm and elegance.
According to the Soul management, the resort’s philosophy goes beyond being the best luxury spa resort. Its goal is to become the ultimate sanctuary for spiritual rejuvenation and detoxification. And the process begins as soon as you set foot inside. Despite the grandeur and all, there is no air of intimidation at all, allowing visitors to relax easily.
The lobby is a sight to behold in itself. Our gaze was rivetted on the tall arch entrance, draped in maroon velvet curtain. The space between the curtains reveals the stunning mountain view. We were greeted by a smiling receptionist who was dressed in kimono, waiting to give us a welcome drink before showing us the room.
A JOURNEY INWARD
The rooms at The Soul are described as an ‘Absolutely Practical Beauty,’ implying that they are luxuriously beautiful and functional. The design concept is ‘Best of East meets Best of West’. It is a blend of the Western and Eastern refinements, where Europe’s classic black & white theme, simple outlines and designs are spiced up with oriental touch as seen in the color schemes, the decorative items, the furniture, and the fabrics.
The choice of materials, color, and form were made with an intention to add energy and revitalize guests as much as possible. The paintings were also created especially for the resort to invoke the ambience of comfortable home that resembles an art gallery.
The large asymmetrical brown cedar wood roof applied in Thai style creates a contemporary image that makes the building cool and refreshing with the harmony and respect for the greatness of nature. All of these are somehow complemented by the surrounding mountain and endless horizon view outside quite nicely.
There are 35 guest rooms with three types of accommodation: The Pristine Deluxe, The Charisma Premier Deluxe, and The Soul Suite for only 6 rooms with 96 sqm in size. We chose to stay at the Charisma Premier Deluxe room, where we could embrace the view of The Harmony Tea Room building.
As the resort’s name suggests, an escapade to pure nature and mindfulness is encouraged here. So, don’t be surprised that they are serious when they say there’s no television in the room. You are expected to go out and take a walk to reconnect with nature, instead of watching TV.
PIM-PIMAN RESTAURANT & PETRA POOL BAR
After unpacking the bags and cozying up in bed a bit, we headed for lunch at Pim-Piman Restaurant, a Thai and international eatery. The restaurant’s interior is elegantly furnished under the concept of timeless Thainess, with a variety of mouth-watering selection. We’re happy to report that the dishes are quite filling and satisfying as they look.
On the second floor of Pim-Piman is Petra Pool Bar, which serves fine dining beside the Infinity Sky Pool. Although it’s a bar, no alcohol is available, as part of The Soul’s policy to keep their guests clean, happy, and enjoy every moment here with full awareness. The only exception will be made for those who drink red wine for health reasons. However, the serving size will be very small.
We were glad to stay for the sunset. Thanks to the panoramic view, the entire experience was so mesmerizing that we felt as if we were in another universe. We spent the evening sipping drinks while watching the golden light reflect on the pool. The sight of the final light of the day disappearing from the horizon is breathtaking.
THE HARMONY LIBRARY AND TEAROOM
Opposite to Pim-Piman Restaurant is the afternoon tea room with the mountain view at the background. Its design also combines Eastern and Western arts in a color therapy theme, utilizing the power of colors to restore energy and nourish the mind and body.
Don’t miss its signature Afternoon Tea Set, praised to be on par with those of the world’s famous cafes. There is also a library corner where guests can explore many good books while sipping their favorite drinks.
If you’d like to reap as many opportunities to feel inner peace during your stay, you must try the Meditation Room. The Harmony is the only tearoom in Thailand and the world that has the Meditation Room for visitors to experience peace and harmony within themselves. After paying respect to the Buddha image, simply sit in silence to enjoy some peaceful time or to meditate.
PIMDHEVA SPA
Our afternoon was filled with strolling and hours of taking photos, so naturally, our next stop was Pimdheva Spa on the rooftop. You could say it is among the most beautiful spas. Surrounded by the spectacular scenery, the spa offers both authentic Thai and European massage programs and several other programs to help relax your muscles and mind.
THE SOUL’S EXPERIENCES – THE HERMIT HUT AND SOCIAL DETOX PROGRAM
‘Social Detox’ – is The Soul’s signature program, designed specifically to help you cut down online time from excessive use of the Internet. The program helps you stay offline for a period of time and enjoy your time spent in the real world better.
When you take frequent breaks from technology and electronic devices, you will feel more mentally sharp and refreshed while your emotions more stable. This will help you find the right balance in all areas of your life.
‘The Hut of Mindfulness’ – Our favorite activities here are the mindfulness activities, which include walking and sitting meditation taught by meditation gurus. If you want to take it up a notch, ask for the Hermit Hut program. This is where the two worlds meet at The Soul.
During the program, you will stay in a small hut alone and try practicing serious meditation. Meals are provided in a tiffin. It is a great opportunity to have a glimpse of life in solitude, with yourself as your best friend.
Other activities also include acrylic painting, yoga, riding, and hillwalking. A nutritionist is also available to help design your diet to cater to each guest’s physical requirements and maintain physical and mental wellness.
We love every moment at The Soul. The place is like a large art gallery, and you can stroll around without getting bored. Learning to get in touch with nature and ourselves again really worked wonders on our sense of well-being.
Although it was a short stay, we’re certain it’s long enough for everyone to realize how crucial it is to take care of their mental health too. The Soul reminds us that ultimate happiness starts from within.
Uplifting and inspiring. Such a unique place of divine peace and simplicity disguised in luxury.
The Soul Resort, Kaeng-Khoi, Saraburi is only 90 mins. from Bangkok,
now open for booking.
Deluxe Type starts 7,500.-++/ Nightwww.thesoulresort.com | 036 241 777 | 099 782 1777
