Avana Retreat, Mai Chau

Avana Retreat is a hidden gem nestled in the lush, green mountains of the Mai Chau Valley in Northwest Vietnam. The remote retreat offers an escape from the more popular tourist spots, encouraging guests to immerse themselves in the surrounding countryside and the region’s cultural heritage.

Spanning a whopping 15 hectares, the retreat consists of 36 bungalows, suites, and villas, each with incredible views of the dense forest which covers the mountainside. The area is home to three ethnic groups, and the resort was built around the idea of connecting the experience of nature with that of local tribal heritage, with many activities on offer which give a taste of local life, like fishing, batik painting, rattan making, and a range of countryside treks. For those simply wanting to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet, Avana has its own 'Cloud Pool’, a three-tier infinity pool with truly breathtaking views of the area, complete with a pool-side bar.

Rooms are designed and built using sustainable practices and while they vary in size, all have rattan ceilings, palm leaf roofs, and earth walls. While this may all sound very rugged, the interiors are charming and refined with comfort in mind, but still manage to create a sense of place with traditional wooden furniture and, of course, the large balconies looking out onto the surrounding forests and tiered rice fields.

The Avana caters for all kinds of travellers with plenty of activities for outdoorsy families and adults seeking a serene and beautiful retreat, and we’d recommend it to anyone who wants to get into the countryside and away from the tourist trail.