8 of the Top Rural Retreats in Vietnam

Many travellers make straight for Vietnam's buzzing cities — famed for their mouth-watering cuisine — or for the country's seemingly endless array of superb beachfront resorts. Venture a little off the beaten track, however, and you'll find a whole host of characterful, eco-minded retreats in the northern hills, along wild, unspoilt stetches of remote coastline, and dotted upon the islets of the mighty Mekong Delta. Wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers will be particularly thrilled by the abundance of rare creatures to discover on guided boat tours or cycle rides through the Mekong region. There are lush jungles in Vietnam's northern hills and its tranquil interior, too. Those dreaming of panoramic ocean views, on the other hand, will find two terrific wellness-focused resorts on our list of the eight top rural retreats in Vietnam. These are real gems — as are the other boutique hideaways and charming lodges that we've highlighted here.

For Boutique Bliss

Tam Coc Garden Resort promises a strong eco and wellness focus, with a serene spa, community connections and delectable dishes crafted from garden-grown produce and river-caught fish or prawns. Remote and romantic, the 16 charming suites and heritage houses invite guests to hide away in total tranquility. A soulful escape.
Avana Retreat has 36 spacious suites and multi-bedroom villas overlooking private pools and iridescent rice fields of Hoa Binh. Also sustainably minded, the hotel was built using traditional techniques, with minimal impact to the site, and features handwoven textiles from regional craftspeople. A boutique base for walking, cycling and star-gazing.
Topas Eco-Lodge, close to Sapa, overlooks the remote Hoang Lien National Park. Designed in a minimalist Scandinavian style, the lodge is made up of a collection of stone-walled village houses with pale wooden interiors and windows framing marvellous views. Kick back in two infinity pools, enjoy massages at the soothing spa, or take art classes after guided hikes and wildlife walks. Boutique bliss in the hills.

For Seaside Luxury

L'Ayla Ninh Van Bay, accessible primarily by boat, is a striking luxury retreat on a verdant stretch of coastline not far from Nha Trang. Understated rooms and suites with thatched roofs and solar power offer big stone tubs, private plunge pools and panoramic ocean views. Dive and snorkel in the Hon Mun Marine Park, take guided jungle treks to spot birds and wildlife, and enjoy fresh cuisine from the kitchen garden. Exceptional.
Bai San Ho is a gorgeous eco-resort perched on a hillside in Phu Yen province. Those dreaming of a remote escape will be thrilled to hear of the hotel's 245 acres of lush grounds, on which 73 individually designed villas are tucked away. Expect earthy tones and artisanal textiles, as well as private plunge pools, free-standing tubs and balconies for soaking up dazzling views. Pamper yourself at the superb Hoa Sen Spa after days of swimming, snorkelling and hiking. A secluded wellness escape.
Amanoi sits on the rugged cliffs of Núi Chúa National Park. A minimalist masterpiece offering an ultra-luxurious escape surrounded by ocean, jungle and endless skies, this is a fabulous resort for an epic honeymoon or spa escape. The spa is sensational, as are the understated rooms and the Beach Club's clifftop infinity pool.

FOR SIMPLE CHARM

The Island Lodge sits on Unicorn Island in the Mekong Delta. Low-key and laid-back, the 12 guest rooms feature natural textures — including bamboo — and nods to classic Vietnamese style. Enjoy French-Vietnamese fusion cuisine, lounge by the riverside swimming pool, or take boat trips and wildlife excursions into the fascinating world of the Delta.
Mai Chau Lodge, a simple and affordable eco-escape with 16 rustic rooms, prides itself on having been built entirely from natural materials. Close to Mo Luong Lake, it's a wonderful choice for outdoorsy types looking to hike, cycle and kayak in the countryside. Within reach of Hanoi.

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8 of the Top Rural Retreats in Vietnam

Mai Chau Lodge

Hoa Binh (Vietnam)

A picturesque lodge set amongst rice paddies and misty mountains. The rustic huts overlooking a lush lily pond provide tranquil accommodation. Breakfast is a spread of tropical fruits and pastries plus there is a traditional spa and outdoor pool in which to relax. Simple yet charming.

Local exploring - Brilliant for outdoorsy adventurers as well as culture buffs eager to explore the best of northern Vietnam
Value chic - Simple, traditional accommodation for guests of all ages at a very reasonable price
Kayaking - Take a guided kayaking excursion on the Hoa Binh Reservoir, the largest in Vietnam
Birdwatching - Spot birds flitting between green vegetation at the Pu Luong Natural Reserve

from CA$117 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

L'Alya Ninh Van Bay

Nha Trang (Vietnam)

An eco-friendly resort nestled amid tropical greenery and crystal clear waters. Simple chic architecture and decor complement and bow to the spectacular surroundings. Seasonal dishes are served up from the organic kitchen garden. An intimate paradise — utterly spoiling without being ostentatious.

Honeymoons - Couples will adore the candlelit dinners on the beach and private villas with outdoor bath tubs for evenings under the stars
Eco break - A fabulous eco-conscious property with an on-site kitchen garden, solar power & a strong focus on reusing and recycling
Great walks - Follow nearby hiking trails with an expert guide to discover a verdant jungle brimming with birds, butterflies and monkeys
Swimming Pool - Communal infinity pool with views of the bay, and a private plunge pool per villa.

from CA$840 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Tam Coc Garden Resort

Ninh Binh (Hoa Lu District, Vietnam)

A luxurious hideaway promising a soulful immersion in nature. Slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of long soaks in big bathtubs, fabulous Vietnamese cuisine and magical views over the mountains from charming heritage houses. Utterly enchanting and perfect for romantic escapes.

Eco break - A strong focus on sustainability extends to organic farming, supporting local crafts & engaging with the community
Other Activities - Meander along the river & through ancient caves in a traditional sampan with a delicious homemade picnic
Hideaway - A beautiful hideaway for romantics, wellness enthusiasts and nature lovers looking to unwind in bliss
Cooking classes - Catch prawns in the river & gather garden-grown produce for delicious Vietnamese cooking classes

from CA$306 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

The Island Lodge

My Tho (Vietnam)

A lovely island hotel with views over the Mekong River. Authentic interiors marry modern style with traditional materials, and the odd splash of history from old family photos and artefacts. The food is an exceptional mix of French and Vietnamese, the best of both worlds. A laid-back haven.

Other Activities - Hire a boat to hop between the four islands of My Tho; each has something new to offer nature lovers and culture aficionados
Local exploring - Discover the Mekong Delta's rich biodiversity & its cultural significance through boat trips, nature tours & market visits
Total relaxation - This secluded island allows vistors to unwind with spa treatments, pool dips and afternoons watching the life on the Mekong
Cycling - Cycle tracks zigzag across the island; either take a guided tour or explore at your own pace

from CA$285 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Amanoi

Nha Trang (Vietnam)

A superb resort and spa on the rugged cliffs of Núi Chúa National Park. The elegant residencies offer a simple yet luxurious setting from which to admire the real star of the show- the views of cliff, forest, lake and sea. The spa is flawless and the food all locally caught or grown. Dazzling.

Spa breaks - Tailor-made restorative treatments at the Aman Spa, paired with fabulous organic cuisine will leave you refreshed & rejuvenated
Wildlife Area - Trek through part of the stunning 29,000-hectare Nui Chua National Park with an expert guide, spotting wildlife as you explore
Sights nearby - Take a guided tour of the Po Klong Garai Cham Towers and the Cham Museum for an insight into the area's rich cultural past
Honeymoons - An achingly romantic resort, with indulgent minimalist villas, private dining on the beach or lake & superb spa treatments

for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Topas Ecolodge

Sapa (Vietnam)

A unique ecolodge set in a remote and beautiful location overlooking the Hoang Lien National Park. Carefully crafted bungalows are made using natural material and offer both luxury and seclusion. The two infinity pools are simply spectacular, plus there's a spoiling spa. A perfect escape to nature.

Art Classes - Take a textile workshop, discovering the processes & patterns used by the Red Dao & Black H’Mong for their clothing & homeware
Back to Nature - A secluded spot with 360 degree views of the surrounding mountains, plus hikes and bike rides aplenty
Trekking - Take a guided 7km hike through some of the most remote scenery of the Hoang Lien National Park
Hideaway - A fabulous luxury eco-escape for guests of all ages, complete with indulgent rooms & a spa

from CA$406 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Bai San Ho

Phu Yen (Vietnam)

A gorgeous eco-resort with 73 villas — many with pools — scattered across 245 acres of verdant, ocean-facing grounds. Peaceful, multi-bedroom residences are done in rustic, earthy tones with big free-standing tubs, sea views & terraces. Three Vietnamese restaurants and activities galore. Stunning!

Beach Life - A fabulous beach break hotel for families, groups of friends or couples seeking a understated luxury in a spectacular setting
Hideaway - A hugely romantic hideaway for couples dreaming of a wellness retreat with watersports & inspiring eco-minded architecture
Families - Multi-bedroom villas are perfect for families, plus there's a kids club and activities galore
Restaurant - Savour grilled seafood at oceanfront Lang Chai, fusion fare at Nha O and regional cuisine at Ba Hai

from CA$658 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Check availability on Expedia

Avana Retreat

Hoa Binh (Vietnam)

A gorgeous eco-retreat with magical views of iridescent rice fields on hillside terraces. Unwind in a sumptuous private suite or two-bedroom villa showcasing handwoven crafts & built using traditional rammed-earth techniques. One for lovers of luxury seeking tranquility & striking natural beauty.

Honeymoons - Romantic villas with private pools are gorgeous for honeymoons, complete with magical views, spa treatments & gourmet cuisine
Families - Two-bedroom bungalows are perfect for families, whilst the coloruful kids club hosts art classes and fabulous treasure hunts
Outstanding location - Overlooking the beautiful mountains and bright terraced rice fields of Mai Chau
Restaurant - Savour gourmet fare at Green Chilli Restaurant, or private dinners at the lagoon or the Hmong Cottage

from CA$512 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

8 of the Top Rural Retreats in Vietnam

For Boutique Bliss

For Seaside Luxury

FOR SIMPLE CHARM

STILL NOT SURE?

8 of the Top Rural Retreats in Vietnam

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