Run, Ride, Repeat: Asia’s Most Inspiring Active Escapes
Miles of Wonder – Jogging & Cycling Through Asia’s Secret Retreats
When you jog or cycle while on vacation you do more than simply exercise, you get to engage with the scenery, to truly feel the destination. The air, the sounds, and the rhythm of daily life become part of your journey. Within the Secret Retreats curated collection, many properties are located within landscapes so extraordinary that your morning exercise transforms into a once-in-a-lifetime experience, every day!
Rural Trails & Rice Fields – La Maison d’Indochine, Hoi An, Vietnam
Nestled in the heart of the enchanting UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An, La Maison d’Indochine provides effortless access to some of Vietnam’s most captivating jogging and cycling routes. For cyclists, the ride unfolds through lush green rice fields and quiet rural lanes, leading you toward the charming old town framed by lantern-lit streets and riverside vistas. This journey beautifully marries scenic natural landscapes with the timeless cultural heritage of Hoi An, the perfect choice for those craving an active escape rich in atmosphere and history.
Streets of Heritage – Satri House, Luang Prabang, Laos
Early mornings in the ancient northern Laos city of Luang Prabang offer an unrivaled experience for runners and cyclists alike. Departing from Satri House, weave your way along the streets and lanes filled with the heritage of ages, past ornate wats, traditional bamboo bridges, and riverside paths where the Nam Khan River meets the Mekong. Luang Prabang was designated a World Heritage Site in 1995. Each step and pedal stroke reveals the city’s serene and timeless spirit, allowing you to connect intimately with its cultural heritage and natural splendor.
Scenic Riverside Routes – The Junei, Kyoto, Japan
At The Junei, both cyclists and runners will find inspiration along the scenic Kamo River. The riverbank trails, lined with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage, provide a tranquil yet invigorating setting for your daily exercise. After your run or cycle-ride, explore nearby historic landmarks such as the Imperial Palace’s gardens or Kyoto’s traditional tea houses, perfectly blending your physical activity with Kyoto’s rich cultural tapestry.
Farming Village Loops – Ahsa Farm, Chiang Rai, Thailand
A wonderful stay on an authentic, working farm invites guests to jog or cycle in harmony with rural life. Begin your day riding past verdant rice paddies, water buffalo grazing peacefully, and mountain mist gently rising in the background. At Ahsa Farm, every path is framed by the understated beauty and simplicity of the Thai countryside, offering an immersive and restorative active experience.
Highlands & Rice Terraces – Sanak Retreat, Bali, Indonesia
From Sanak Retreat, set out on jogs through terraced rice fields, past clove and coffee trees, with the majestic Mount Lesong (Gunung Lesung) rising in the distance. Cyclists can explore quiet highland roads leading to hidden waterfalls or breathtaking coastal viewpoints, accompanied by the lively chorus of roosters and village life, a beautifully bucolic soundtrack to your adventure.
Temple Dawn – Heritage Suites, Siem Reap, Cambodia
From Heritage Suites, early risers can jog or cycle toward the ancient wonders of Angkor before the heat of the day sets in. Traverse quiet roads flanked by towering trees, past moats and crumbling gates, until the spires of Angkor Wat emerge in the soft morning light. The still air, sacred atmosphere, and unfolding history make this one of Asia’s most unforgettable active routes.
Beachfront Bliss – Aava Resort & Spa, Khanom, Thailand
Start your day with a jog on Khanom’s endless stretch of unspoiled, golden sand, where the only footprints might be your own. With the Gulf of Thailand to one side and coconut palms swaying on the other, the soft sound of waves becomes your rhythm. At sunrise, the beach glows in shades of pink and gold, the perfect backdrop for runners seeking both beauty and solitude. For those who prefer two wheels, quiet coastal roads lead past sleepy fishing villages and hidden coves, offering a scenic and peaceful ride.
Why These Routes Are Unforgettable
With Secret Retreats, your morning run or cycle is never just exercise, it’s a dialogue with the land and its people. A temple bell echoing through the mist, the rustle of tea leaves in a soft breeze, the crunch of gravel under your tyres, these are the moments that turn movement into memory. Step by step, pedal by pedal, the road leads you beyond the ordinary and into Asia’s most breathtaking corners.
