Six Senses Con Dao

Set on a jewel of an island still mostly untouched by developers, Six Senses Con Dao offers space, privacy and spectacular views from its 50 rustic-chic private pool villas.

• The calm, crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling and paddleboarding
• Stargazing from the astronomical observatory on property
• The contemporary two- to four-bedroom family villas featuring huge, sleek pools and stunning sea views** **

The short flight from Ho Chi Minh to Con Dao is typically filled with Vietnamese families armed with bundles of paper-wrapped flowers making pilgrimage to the tomb of Vo Thi Sau. The country’s most famous heroine is said to grant wishes to those who make offerings, and the most auspicious time to visit is midnight, when the inky sky clouds with incense.

This sense of magic pervades the island. Six Senses Con Dao is set on a long, sparkling crescent of beach protected by Elephant Mountain, named for its resemblance to an elephant dipping her trunk into the sea. The water, ranging in color from aquamarine to royal blue, is crystal clear, with visibility as far as 100 feet deep. On a good day, you can see straight to the bottom of the sea from atop a paddleboard.

Particularly after a stay in electrifying Ho Chi Minh, arriving at Six Senses Con Dao is instantly calming. There are no cars or scooters zipping by, only bicycles and buggies. Friendly staff in traditional conical hats ride past on bicycles and greet guests with a smile and a xin chào. There are no other resorts visible from the beach, only tree-topped mountains and traditional fishing boats bobbing in the distance. At night, their lanterns mingle with the twinkling stars.

The design of the property, which opened in 2010, is a contemporary take on a traditional fishing village with a Vietnamese restaurant, shop and complimentary ice cream bar forming its charming main street. The villas are a continuation of the village theme, but entirely elevated: this is the land of the private pool villa. Room interiors are airy and minimalist and feature sweeping views of the sea. The reclaimed teakwood floors feel worn underfoot and conjure a cozy cabin vibe. Light streams in through windows that line the ceiling. The romantic canopied beds are topped with mosquito netting that is unfurled at night, should you choose to eschew the air conditioning. The bathrooms, some of which are open-air, are contemporary in style with an outdoor shower and a soaking tub. The in-villa dining team sets up beautiful meals on the terrace, by the pool or in bed.

Those who enjoy walking out of their villa and onto the sand will be happiest in the single-story and duplex oceanfront pool villas set on the beach. For couples seeking more privacy, the ocean view duplex villas are set slightly higher on the hill and offer sweeping views from the upstairs bedroom and balcony. The contemporary two- to four-bedroom villas, the sleekest rooms on property, are ideal for families, boasting a full kitchen, large pool and expansive communal living area. Each villa is assigned a butler, available by direct dial to assist with all requests.

When not lounging by their private pool, guests can busy themselves with stand-up paddle boarding, snorkeling, yoga and cooking classes, or treat themselves to an afternoon at the fantastic Six Senses spa. Those on a longer stay may enjoy visiting Con Dao town for a historical tour and a syrupy-sweet Vietnamese iced coffee. Young travelers will find plenty to keep themselves entertained with a great kids’ club program, movie nights, ping pong, kayaking and sailing. The restaurants feature traditional Vietnamese flavors as well as expertly prepared Western dishes made with local seafood and fresh herbs.

Families and couples seeking privacy, a pristine beach and a rustic-chic aesthetic in an off-the-beaten-path but easily accessible destination.

The weather is the best from February through July, when the waters are clearest. From May through October, guests have the opportunity to see turtles nesting on the beaches.