Discover a serene escape in the heart of Northern Vietnam’s natural splendour
Story: Rhonda Bannister
Perched high in the unspoiled Ba Vi Mountains, amidst the verdant greenery and tranquil vistas of ancient rainforest, Meliá Ba Vi Mountain Retreat offers a glorious romantic getaway in Vietnam. Just a 90-minute drive (55 kilometres) from Hanoi, this luxurious eco resort seamlessly blends modern comforts with the untouched beauty of nature. A soul-stirring fusion of magnificent scenery and resort luxuries makes it an irresistible destination for couples.
Overview
Meliá Ba Vi Mountain Retreat was recently named as one of the best luxury hotels in Hanoi at the prestigious global Luxury Lifestyle Awards. And once you visit, you’ll know why. The location is clearly stunning (those views!), but guests also enjoy superb accommodation and a choice of local activities including camping, biking, and mountain-trekking. Not to mention a gorgeous YHI spa and heated infinity pool to ease those adventure-weary muscles.
Our tip? Take the shuttle buggy tour for the best insights into the history and splendour of this vast property, built on the foundations of an old French resort. Many treasures from the past remain (we saw ruins of a Ladies Camp, a Colonel’s mansion, and a cannon emplacement), revealing the French architectural style that permeated this area in the early 20th century. Tree roots engulf ruined buildings while greenery envelops century-old relics, creating a mystical scene that only enhances your experience.
Accommodation
The resort features 55 rooms, suites and villas with a choice of garden, mountain or lake views. All are tastefully decorated with a blend of modern amenities, traditional Vietnamese touches, and French colonial style. We stayed in a Premium Garden View room, which was spacious and comfortable, giving us fantastic views of the jungle through the almost full-length windows and balcony. Tea and coffee-making facilities are always welcome when travelling, and the pod coffee machine was a real bonus for these two coffee-loving Aussies.
Dining
The main dining venue, Senses, is a culinary delight offering a diverse menu of international and Vietnamese cuisine. It’s a journey through the region’s rich culinary heritage, showcasing fresh ingredients plucked from Meliá Ba Vi’s own gardens. The buffet-style breakfast is a feast for the senses, with a wide array of hot and cold dishes, including traditional Vietnamese delicacies like pho and banh mi. The à la carte lunch and dinner menus are equally enticing.
For a more intimate dining experience, Tonkin restaurant offers a glamorous Indochine ambience with beautifully carved timber furniture, gauzy curtaining and impeccable service. We enjoyed a table for two here on both nights, feasting on delectable dishes including duck with orange sauce, banana blossom salad, Sea Bass with lemon butter sauce, carrot and cinnamon soup, and Hanoi crispy spring rolls. We left the resort heavier than when we arrived — and I don’t mean the luggage!
And our favourite way to round out the evening? A nightcap at the 1902 Lobby Lounge. Named for the year Ba Vi National Park was established, this sophisticated, colonial-style bar features an excellent selection of wines and spirits and takes in panoramic mountain views from its lovely terrace. Highly recommended.
Related reading: Vietnam’s best beach resorts
Body & mind
The YHI Spa is a sanctuary within the resort, offering a range of rejuvenating treatments. Nestled in a tranquil corner of the property, surrounded by lush greenery, the spa offers breathtaking mountain views. The menu is a treasure- trove of massages, facials, and body treatments, all crafted with natural and locally sourced ingredients.
I loved the 90-minute Vital Signature Massage, a combination of Thai, Swedish, Lomilomi and Shiatsu techniques. I’ve had hundreds of massages, but this one goes to my top 5%. I only wished I had time to indulge in the three-hour Glowing body treatment, which includes body exfoliation, body massage and facial treatment, finishing with foot reflexology. There’s also a jacuzzi, sauna and steam bath to enjoy.
For those who prefer an active stay, the resort’s commitment to wellness includes a well-equipped fitness centre and a standout infinity pool with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The pool area, beautifully landscaped, provides ample sun loungers and shaded areas for relaxation while the poolside bar serves a selection of refreshing drinks and light snacks — perfect for unwinding after a workout.
And, of course, the countryside provides endless scope for nature walks, mountain hikes, cycling adventures and even camping experiences that can all be organised through the resort.
Couples will love
Meliá Ba Vi Mountain Retreat is, quite literally, a breath of fresh mountain air. A perfect antidote to Hanoi’s smoggy skies and 24/7 buzz, this peaceful destination feels right at home in the natural beauty of Northern Vietnam. With an exhilarating backdrop of jungle, tropical rainforest and cloud-wreathed mountains, couples can enjoy a serene escape with an optional side of adventure and discovery.
Find out more at Meliá Ba Vi Mountain Retreat.
Related reading: Discover the magic of Northern Vietnam with our 12-day travel guide.
