Let nature wash over you at Avana Retreat, where luxe thatched bungalows peep out from the jungle, and the plunging Pung waterfall topples down to hidden lagoons. This is the rugged interior of Vietnam's north, a lush emerald landscape of mountains, rice paddies and forest, close to Mai Chau and 4 hours southwest of Hanoi. People come here to rejuvenate in the great outdoors, to trek in the flower-strewn valleys, and to immerse themselves in local hill tribe culture. Prepare to be blown away by the out-of-this-world scenery.
Fully sustainable in its approach, Avana takes great pride in its environment; most of the staff are locals from surrounding villages, and the 36 suites and villas were constructed using traditional techniques passed on from nearby craftsmen. Enriching activities for all ages will immerse you in the culture of these parts, be it rattan making, batik painting or trekking to mountain villages, and you'll get a flavour of the cuisine at Green Chili restaurant, set against a backdrop of forested slopes. But it's not all about keeping busy; relaxation comes in the form of a spectacular, tiered Cloud Pool, inspired by the estate's rippling rice terraces, with voluptuous valley views that melt into the horizon. Swim here, or plunge into the hidden spring-fed lagoon in the jungle, an ethereal setting for a wild dip. And then there's the Orchid Spa, built along the waterfall's flow, with burbling streams to soothe you into a state of nirvana.
Highs
- Immersed in a breathtaking natural landscape of waterfalls, springs, rice fields and forests - hiking here is spectacular
- Local life is championed: 90% of the staff are from the immediate area, over 10,000 trees have been planted, activities showcase cultural traditions
- The three-tiered Cloud Pool is a marvel, cleverly resembling the estate's rice paddies
- Each of the 36 suites and villas is crafted using local techniques, and they all come with blissful leafy views; some have private pools, too
- Kids are made very welcome here - there's a playroom, lots of fun activities to take part in, and a children's menu at the restaurant
Lows
- This is a remote place with no restaurants or nightlife nearby; Hanoi is a 4-hour drive away
- It's not cheap by Vietnamese standards, and you'll be paying to eat in every evening, but scenery like this is worth every penny
- Full prepayment is required upon booking, and it's non-refundable, but this really is a one-of-a-kind place - you won't regret it
Best time to go
Mai Chau and surrounds have a subtropical climate with two seasons - dry and wet (though it can rain at any time of year). The finest weather extends from November until April. Come Nov-Jan for plum blossom season; Mar-Apr for bauhinia blossom season. It can be quite cold during winter (Nov-Feb). The rainy season is from May to October, with higher humidity and heavy downpours. Temperatures are warmer during these months, and it's the best time to see those rice terraces shine emerald green.
Our top tips
There's a rich ethnic heritage here, which you can learn about on a 30-minute guided tour of the Stilt House Museum. See displays of jewellery, garments and musical instruments from the three native communities - Thai, H’mong and Muong - where the vast majority of Avana's workforce come from.