Alila Villas Koh Russey, the brand’s first resort in Cambodia, occupies its own private island in the Koh Rong archipelago.
The 50-pavilion, 13-villa boutique resort has a strong Khmer influence, and has been endorsed by EarthCheck, an Australia-based organisation that has benchmarked and certified Alila Villa Koh Russey’s areas of operational and environmental sustainability, as well as carbon dioxide emissions.
Most of the island’s natural foliage has been preserved, and other sustainable features include villa systems that automatically adjust lighting and temperature when occupants enter or leave, a fishing exclusion zone which is set at 200-metres around the resort to preserve the marine environment, and a special nursery which aims to protect more than 20 species of trees indigenous to the island.
There are two restaurants on-site: Horizon, which serves up à la carte breakfast and dinners with an emphasis on French and French fusion fare; and the Beach Shack, offering Khmer cuisine, seafood and light dishes.
Meanwhile, recreational facilities include the beachfront Spa Alila, an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, and a fitness centre with private yoga room – where complimentary yoga and Tai Chi classes are held daily.
As well, hotel-arranged excursions include guided access to hidden temples, highland trekking in the Bokor National Park, exploring the Kep’s Crab Market and Kampot’s pepper plantation and taking in the laid-back riverfront scene.
The journey from tarmac to resort takes just a 20-minute private car transfer and speedboat ride from Sihanoukville Airport.
