Outdoors-y families, mountaineers, and romantic couples hankering after the golden-age of travel.
Sapa is in North Western Vietnam, up in the Haong Lien Mountains, and close to the Chinese border. The best way to get there is on the overnight Victoria Express train which takes 8.5 hours from Hanoi.
Wake up to see the mists roll over Indochina’s highest mountain, with a kaleidoscope of alpine flowers in the distance, and friendly goats munching in the gardens below. The 77 rooms at Victoria Sapa have large balconies to make the most of the breathtaking views and alpine air. Inside, the feeling of space continues thanks to the high ceilings and polished wooden floors, whilst the crisp white bed-sheets contrast with bright fabrics of surrounding hill-tribes. For families and groups there are two Family Studios with interconnected rooms.
Dining at Victoria Sapa is alpine with a twist. Sitting around a roaring fire at the centre of the restaurant, you can share mouth-watering cheese fondue, perfect after a day of trekking, as well as Vietnamese and Cambodian specialities, fresh seafood, and Western cuisine. During the day, you can get light snacks by the huge indoor pool, and they also do barbecues in the garden. As well as the Kids’ Club, children will love the rabbit garden and gang of friendly goats.
The gateway to the Tonkinese Alps, and filled with an abundance of orchids, Sapa is heaven for anyone who loves trekking, mountain-biking, or just taking in the stunning alpine scenery. Take a steep walk downhill to the village of Cat Cat, winding your way through bamboo stands, before seeing the M’kong people weaving brocade and selling their colourful handicrafts. Other markets are less touristy, but are a little further away so you’ll probably want to join a tour, or take a motorbike. Back at Sapa village there’s a beautiful waterfall to see, and at Victoria Sapa you can unwind with a game of tennis or luxurious spa session.
Mount Fansipan is the highest mountain in Indonchina, standing at a formidable 3,143 metres, but anyone of reasonable fitness should be able to defeat it. We can help you arrange a 2 – 3 day mountain trek, passing through lush jungle and hill-tribe villages, and with the opportunity to sleep under the stars.