Waterfall Envelops the Heart of New Avana Retreat Resort in Vietnam

Hanoi (October 20, 2022) — An untouched waterfall, rice field terraces and jungle slopes of a mountain side have become the foundation for an extraordinary 15-hectare resort in Mai Chau Province, Vietnam, located 3.5 hours from Hanoi.

The resort, which opened quietly during the pandemic, offers 36 villas with spacious and local architecture, a water-flow spa salon, and one of the most majestic dinner experiences in Southeast Asia.

"It's one thing to build a resort near natural wonders, but building it right in the heart of this beauty with minimal impact on nature creates an immersive experience that can be extraordinary," says Mr. Vu Huy, founder of Avana Retreat.

The resort's architecture draws from local Hmong and Thai building traditions. The 36 villas range in size from 98 square meters (1,054 sq ft) to 229 square meters (2,465 sq ft). Some villas feature balconies up to 35 square meters (377 sq ft). One villa sits on a rice field terrace. Three villas have private pools, and the most private one features an 89 square meter (958 sq ft) heated pool shaped like a terrace.

Bungalow villas have thatched roofs, like local hilltops; walls are made from earth, like Hmong homes. Ceilings are crafted from bamboo in Thai patterns. Warm wooden interiors are adorned with local arts and crafts, including hand-painted wax paintings with ethnic patterns.

Narrow lantern-lit paths and bridges leading through the resort's jungle underscore its uniqueness without intrusion. The private waterfall that inspired the resort’s development ten years ago serves as a backdrop for private dinners and intimate gatherings with a terrace overlooking the waterfall.

An open-air yoga studio rises above the stream. The Orchid Spa with eight therapeutic rooms is located by the river, surrounded by nature. Spa treatments use local herbs and essential oils including the unique Wild Reconnection recovery program. This distinctive 3- to 3.5-hour treatment includes a local ingredient scrub, toning and firming wrap, relaxing facial massage, and a special massage using acupressure points, heat therapy, and herbal compresses.

The resort offers four heated infinity pools with sunset or cloud ceiling views. The name Cloud Pool Bar reflects this phenomenon when clouds nearly touch the top of the resort. Guests can enjoy drinks, light snacks or lunch with local dishes such as banana flower salad, or Western cuisine — pizza, pasta and sandwiches.

The Green Chili restaurant offers a full-day menu with dishes ranging from pho and Australian beef to vegetarian and vegan options. The team aims to use local herbs, spices and vegetables. Eggs come from the resort’s farm.

Using local resources is a priority at all levels. More than 90% of staff come from the surrounding area.

"We want all experiences here to be unique to this part of Mai Chau, from the views you see to the food you eat and the people you meet," says Huy.

To maintain harmony with its surroundings, Avana is also a plastic-free resort. Garbage bags are made from corn starch, organic waste is composted, and they have their own water purification plant. Electric trolleys are used for transportation around the resort, and they continue to increase regional diversity through a tree planting program.

-Project description and images provided by Balcony Media Group