CENTRAL VIETNAM
Explore charming, historical cities, different cultural influences and pristine white beaches in central Vietnam.
Situated on the banks of the Perfume River, Hue is the old Imperial City, a UNESCO World heritage Site and a charming combination of the old and the new. The old citadel remains today with its temples, royal tombs and beautiful pagodas. Watching the ebb and flow of daily life as boats sail along the river. Travel by boat yourself to explore, visiting the 17th century Thien Mu Pagoda to really get a feel for traditional Hue. This is a tranquil and charming city, enhanced by the excellent restaurant scene.
Further south, the city of Hoi An is a pretty and beguiling city. Small enough to explore on foot, it has an interesting history and is one of Vietnam’s finest cultural relics with 844 UNESCO protected structures. Its history as an important trading port means that today’s culture is an interesting mix of Japanese, Chinese and French influences. The old town is home to the famous Japanese bridge and Merchant Houses along with Chinese temples, old tea warehouses and traditional pagodas.
Hoi An is a compact city and its riverside location makes it particularly romantic in the evenings when the streets are lit by lanterns. Enjoy the relaxing friendly atmosphere, fabulous street food and indulge in a spot of shopping in the open-air craft shops and galleries. If you are looking for a beach location there are some stunning beaches a short drive from the city where you can relax in tropical bliss, adding in a day trip to the charming city if you wish.
WHERE TO STAY
Our favourite luxury hotels
Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai – Hoi An
This is a beautiful hotel sitting within 35 hectares of tropical gardens on the pristine Ha My Beach. Made up of one-bedroom villa and the more exclusive pool villas that feature private butlers, the accommodation is top notch. Take a dip in one of the 3 infinity pools, or the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. Delightful Hoi An is a short distance away. Guests can dine in three excellent restaurants, choosing the freshest fish from the daily catch.
Anantara Hoi An Resort – Hoi An
Enjoy an intimate stay at this peaceful luxury hotel in the heart of Hoi An. Anantara offers French colonial style in an elegant, white-pillared building overlooking the river and elegant gardens. The 93 rooms and suites are classic and stylish, offering spacious balconies. Guests can choose to dine al fresco on the terrace or enjoy a cocktail in the classic Heritage Bar. For something extra special use the ‘dining by design’ service and enjoy a meal prepared by your own private chef.
Azerai La Residence – Hue
Once the home of the French colonial governor, Azerai La Residence has been beautifully restored as a luxury boutique hotel, situated on the banks of the Perfume River. The 122 rooms are decorated in a sophisticated style with a nod to the colonial past and exuding regal elegance. They offer views of the former imperial citadel, the river or lush gardens. There is a stunning saltwater pool, running parallel with the river and the restaurant serves excellent Vietnamese and international dishes.
Ancient Hue Garden Houses – Hue
Sitting on the banks of the Perfume River, this hotel is in the historic village of Kim Long, a former residential area of the high mandarins and royalty. The five private houses are built to feng shui principles and decorated with wood carvings and traditional folk colours. Private terraces look out over green trees and the landscaped gardens. The restaurant, Kim Long is a unique fine dining experience combining, local Vietnamese with Asian and European flavours which emulate the royal feats enjoyed by Vietnamese nobility.
Intercontinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort – Danang
Designed by the renowned architect, Bill Bensley, this is a stunning luxury resort set amongst lush gardens and with its own private beach. The accommodation ranges from classic ocean view rooms to 1, 2 and 3-bedroom villas with private pools. The restaurant here is exceptional, La Maison 1888 headed up by three Michelin starred Pierre Gagnaire is Vietnam’s first restaurant to feature a Michelin-starred chef. Guests can relax on the beach, indulge in a treatment from the luxury spa, enjoy treks through the jungle and sample excellent wines from the hotel’s renowned cellars.