Cambodia & Tourism : A Serene Return to Kep: Rediscovering the Charm of Knai Bang Chatt
- Voyageuse Passion
- 7 hours ago
- 6 min read
It had been a while since I had wanted to return to Kep, Cambodia—and more precisely to Knai Bang Chatt, that uniquely charming hotel I fell in love with during my first stay a few years ago.
I hadn't yet returned to see the great transformations the resort had undergone, which I had read about in the press. So, together with my husband and our eight-year-old son, we decided to take a few days off. At almost forty, working in a demanding position at a hospital, I was craving a relaxing and refreshing break—one that would also allow me to rediscover the region and its surroundings.
The drive takes us just a little over three hours. As we approach Kep, I’m already savoring the prospect of a few calm days away from the city, the traffic, and the noise. At first glance, Kep doesn’t seem to have changed much. When we arrive at Knai Bang Chatt, only a few hundred meters from the crab market, the familiar stone wall and sliding wooden gate greet us once again. Smiling and attentive staff members, just as I remember them, take our luggage and lead us to the reception, where we are offered a refreshing drink.
We briefly explain what we’re looking for, and the manager assures us he plans to organize a relaxing yet varied stay filled with discoveries. Perfect! After those few hours on the road, I can’t wait to get back to the pool for a swim and a cool dip.
From the very first steps toward our room, I’m instantly struck by that feeling of tranquility and elegance I’ve rarely found elsewhere. I’m reunited with the mix of historical charm and modern luxury that defines Knai Bang Chatt’s reputation.
The resort still boasts its three beautifully restored villas from the 1970s, which capture a hint of French colonial style. Meticulously renovated, they preserve their historic essence while offering modern comfort. The result is a wonderful and harmonious fusion of past and present, creating an atmosphere that’s both simple and sophisticated, with just a touch of nostalgia.
Our room feels like a cozy little oasis, adorned with vintage touches and natural hues that seem to whisper stories from a golden era not so long ago. I tell myself that the absence of modern distractions like a TV will help me truly disconnect, while the Wi-Fi will still let me share snapshots of our stay with my friends.
My son can hardly contain his excitement—he’s eager to jump into the pool. On our way there, towels, goggles, hat, and sunscreen in hand, I notice how lush the place still is, with tall palms, small ponds, and a beautiful lawn shaded by a grand flamboyant tree.
A gentle sea breeze carries the delicate fragrance of the surrounding gardens, and I already feel wonderfully well. Here and there, a few decorations—driftwood and pottery brought in by the currents—remind us that we’re by the sea, on the shores of the famous Gulf of Thailand, whose very name evokes the spirit of great adventures of days gone by.
Halfway to the beach, I realize how much the resort has grown. Now, there’s a wide stretch of white sand lined with several new buildings, restaurants, and a water sports center. I love jet skis and kayaking and can’t wait to try the Hobie Cat too. As for the restaurants, I plan to try each of them—after all, we’re by the sea, and I’m sure the chef’s menus feature some delicious seafood specialties.
The gorgeous pool and its deck furnished with umbrellas and ultra-comfortable sofas heighten this sense of peace and serenity. I may sound repetitive, but truly, I don’t know many places as relaxing. I almost regret not having come back sooner.
After an hour swimming in delightfully fresh water, I take my son and husband down to the waterfront to explore the new facilities. After a few selfies—the place is far too beautiful not to—we meet the friendly Roberto, head of the water sports and excursions center, who offers us a wide range of activities for the coming days that sound absolutely tempting.
Further along, we discover Coco Beach, a small oasis of white sand next to the jetty and restaurants. I promise myself a cocktail there this evening at sunset. I also take a moment to admire the incredible sculpture Coral Kingdom—an exceptional artwork adding to the resort’s creative charm.
We borrow bicycles and head to The Strand restaurant, where we had dined during our first stay. I recall the food being particularly delicious.
At this South Seas–style restaurant that reminds me of Polynesia, Chef Chuon Sokheng personally greets us and recommends dishes from his new menu, which he’s clearly proud of. The Strand serves both Khmer and Western specialties and also hosts breakfast service.
The chef suggests his burrata dish with black olive tapenade, oven-roasted tomatoes, eggplant caviar, and coriander pesto. He praises it so passionately that we give in—without any regrets. It’s an utter delight, with harmoniously mingled flavors and 100% fresh ingredients. I had wished for a “healthy stay,” and things are starting beautifully.
We also order a few local specialties, including the famous lok lak with fragrant Kampot pepper, and a grilled fish dish also paired with green Kampot pepper and an exquisite sauce. The culinary surprise of the meal, however, is undoubtedly the crab tartare with avocado—a tender, refreshing delicacy perfectly balanced and expertly crafted. Chef Chuon Sokheng truly knows how to showcase the treasures of the sea.
After such a satisfying meal, we take a short nap before heading to the beach again. My husband and son are eager to try the jet ski, agreeing to save the Hobie Cat for the next day. Roberto provides life jackets, reviews safety instructions, and soon we’re gleefully skimming the waves under a brilliant sun that seems intent on staying with us all day.
After an hour of lively fun, we switch to something gentler. I relax on the beach while my husband and son try out paddling and kayaking. I soon join them—it’s pure pleasure gliding smoothly over the water as the fading light ushers in a magnificent sunset.
By around 5:30 p.m., happily sun-soaked and content, we return to the pool and get ready for sunset cocktails. We settle comfortably onto the lounge chairs at Coco Beach, enjoying cool beers as we watch the glowing sun sink beneath the horizon—a moment of serenity, fullness, perhaps even near-perfect happiness.
Around 7 p.m., we head to The Wave for our second gastronomic experience. Of course, I can’t resist snapping a few selfies in front of the jetty and the stunning Coral Kingdom sculpture. After such a full day, we’re quite hungry, and our earlier culinary delight has only whetted our appetites for more of Chef Chuon Sokheng’s creations.
The menu—both digital and in print—offers a rich selection of fish and seafood dishes. The waiter recommends the pizzas, freshly prepared and popular with The Wave’s patrons.
It’s hard to choose, as everything looks delicious. We follow his advice and order a pizza, but the fresh sea air makes me crave fish again, and remembering the crab tartare from lunch, I go for a carpaccio.
Once again, the chef and his team deliver an impressive culinary performance. The carpaccio, topped with fine cheese shavings and capers, is simply divine. The pizza, with its perfectly crisp crust and balanced mix of seafood and vegetables, tastes like a treat—authentic, fresh, and “come in Italia.” No wonder so many tables have ordered one.
Service is quick, the atmosphere is both lounge and cozy, and the evening pulses to the rhythm of a professional DJ. We even chat with guests at nearby tables—the mood is cheerful and relaxed, encouraging friendly encounters. It’s worth highlighting that in our overly connected world, we sometimes forget the simple joy of sharing a drink and a good conversation in such a welcoming place. I can’t wait for tomorrow’s new sporting and gastronomic adventures.
To be continued…
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