On the banks of the Thu Bon River outside Hoi An, Vietnam, Namia River Retreat is taking a distinctly local approach to luxury wellness. The 60-villa private-pool retreat has earned its first MICHELIN One Key in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Hotel Selection, recognizing a property where traditional Vietnamese wellness, nature and contemporary hospitality are woven into the stay.

Opened in December 2024, Namia centers its wellness philosophy on Thuoc Nam, Vietnam’s traditional herbal medicine. Every guest receives a complimentary 90-minute Lumina wellness journey each day, extending the experience beyond conventional spa treatments into a deeper connection with Vietnamese traditions. Guests can also explore the Thu Bon River aboard the private Merchant River Cruise, experience locally inspired cuisine and take part in experiences designed around the culture and landscape of Hoi An. The retreat is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and was also named among Vogue USA’s 100 Best Spas of 2026.

The Curated Take: Namia’s MICHELIN recognition is interesting because the property’s identity is rooted in something more enduring than luxury amenities. Its approach suggests that wellness can be a way into a destination’s history and traditions, rather than an experience that could be transplanted anywhere in the world. Here, the river, herbal medicine, cuisine and Vietnamese heritage all become part of the retreat itself.