Stunning scenery, intriguing history and vibrant interior design, these luxury hotels in Vietnam have much to lure adventurous travellers…
Words Jessica Burrell
With world-class resorts and hotels continually emerging and expanding, Vietnam will forever attract seekers of opulence, wishing to experience the country from impeccable five-star comfort. If you consider yourself such a traveller, here are five luxury hotels in Vietnam to know now.
Our pick of the best luxury hotels in Vietnam
Four Seasons
Combining Hoi An’s intriguing heritage with world-renowned Four Seasons flair, The Nam Hai epitomises luxury without sacrificing authentic character. Set within expansive grounds on a private half-mile stretch of the pristine Ha My Beach and complete with a three-tiered infinity pool, the stunning surroundings are matched only by the utterly impeccable service.
Each of the resort’s 100 sumptuously appointed villas is thoughtfully designed to embody the Vietnamese tradition of architecture as an art form – and carefully positioned to optimise ocean views. Whichever villa you find yourself in, you’ll enjoy 24-hour in-room dining, an opulent king-sized bed and a stylish alfresco rain shower. Emerging from your room, you’ll find the blissful Heart of the Earth Spa and plenty of water sports to keep you occupied.
With enviable proximity to the timelessly charming UNESCO city of Hoi An, the resort will appeal to the culturally curious as well. There’s even a Cooking Academy with a herb and vegetable farm within the confines, so you can enjoy a true taste of Vietnam without venturing too far from this luxurious haven.
Anantara Resort Hoi An
Often lauded for having bagged the best spot in the city, Anantara’s Hoi An outpost is scenically positioned on the banks of the Thu Bon River. As well as riverside relaxation, there’s the bustling city and blissful beach in perfect proximity, making this the perfect choice for those seeking a little Vietnamese variety.
The charming boutique hotel is designed with colonial French flair, as well as Dutch, Chinese and Japanese influences, embodying Hoi An’s intriguing cultural diversity to a tee. Rooms are set around a lush courtyard and designed with a chic fusion of European and Asian minimalism. It’s worth getting up and about for the languid pool and tasty riverside restaurant though, not to mention the chance to delve into the local culture with language, lantern-making and cookery classes.
It’s hard to think of a more tempting introduction to the vivid local way of life than a scenic river cruise, yet another highlight on offer at Anantara Hoi An. You can drink everything in with a sunset voyage arranged by the hotel, enjoying a glass of wine as you plan the next day’s activities.
InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort
The ultimate in luxury, this sprawling five-star beach resort nestled in the heart of a nature reserve offers world-class amenities and astounding design. Located near three UNESCO world heritage sites, a pristine private bay and the unspoiled forests of Son Tra Peninsula, this is an idyllic spot, whatever your agenda.
Creating this retreat over four levels (representing ‘Heaven, Sky, Earth and Sea’) renowned resort architect Bill Bensley has reimagined Vietnamese design with a touch of the playful, linking each level by a charming funicular train that climbs through the forested slopes. The suites and villas are opulent and lavish, with abstract artwork and modernist flair bringing a sense of glamour to the traditional.
A perfect choice for foodies, the resort offers no fewer than six dining options, with everything from artisanal Vietnamese cuisine at Citron, to haute French fare at La Maison 1888. Now home to Pierre Gagnaire, this is the first restaurant in Vietnam to feature a Michelin-starred chef (in fact, Pierre has three). A seriously suave option for the most discerning of travellers.
Azerai, Can Tho
Opened in January 2018, Azerai Can Tho brings a new breed of affordable luxury to Vietnam’s hotel scene. It also brings travellers a fresh and unique opportunity to explore the timeless Mekong Delta and the bustling city of Can Tho (famous for its charming floating markets) from a stylish oasis.
Based on its own private islet, the hotel is set over eight hectares, with 60 rooms offering lake, river or garden views. Neutral tones and natural materials abound, allowing the place to blend blissfully with its tropical surroundings. There’s ample relaxation to be had here, from your own languid, lounger-adorned wooden terrace to a wellness spa nestled beneath a shaded canopy of banyan trees – but it’s the unique excursions on offer that make this newcomer truly stand out.
Lively, vibrantly colourful and picturesque, the surroundings are well worth exploring. From Azerai, you can drift away to Cai Rang’s Floating Market, explore the Bai Cong Forest and explore organic cocoa farms, making for a truly authentic Vietnamese adventure.
Amanoi
When it comes to matching astounding location with seamless design, Amanoi must surely take Vietnam’s prize. Utterly secluded, this luxe hillside retreat borders both a national park and a marine reserve, so you can expect a chorus of tropical birdsong to wake you each morning, plenty of snorkelling opportunities and, best of all, a sense of unmitigated seclusion.
The effortlessly chic, shrine-like ambience grants a serene air of peace, enhanced by the airy, eco-luxe décor of the sprawling pavilions, villas and residences. But if you’re seeking something more than sheer relaxation, look to the hotel’s extraordinary wellness experiences.
The first of their kind in Asia, Amanoi’s two spa houses go far beyond traditional massages (though these are as blissful as you’d expect) offering an extensive selection of ‘Wellness Immersions’. Beginning with a wellbeing review, these individually tailored programmes include personalised holistic treatments, exercise sessions and nutritionally balanced food plans. Ideal if you’re in need of a lifestyle overhaul, or simply want to hit refresh on holiday.
