Over a decade ago, the founder of Avana Retreat had an awe-inspiring encounter with a magnificent waterfall while trekking in the mountainous Mai Châu region of Northwestern Vietnam. Mai Châu, an enchanting rural district nestled within Vietnam’s Hoa Binh Province in the north, is a true hidden gem. This tranquil oasis is cradled by lush valleys and embraced by majestic mountains, earning a well-deserved reputation for its breathtaking natural beauty, diverse tapestry of ethnic cultures, and the preservation of ancient traditions. Situated approximately 135 kilometers (84 miles) southwest of Hanoi, Mai Châu has emerged as a coveted destination for travelers, both local and international, seeking an authentic and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
This serendipitous encounter served as the catalyst for the birth of Avana Retreat. Recognizing the profound connection between nature and the desire to share the region’s rich heritage, the Avana team embarked on a mission inspired by the founder’s initial journey. Their goal was to create trekking experiences that would ignite the same sense of wonder and discovery in others.
Nestled in an unspoiled corner of Mai Châu, Avana Retreat is where the paved roads give way to ancient mountain paths, traversed for generations by the ethnic Hmong people. These paths are the very heart of the ‘Adventure Trek – View from the Top,’ an 8.5-hour expedition tailor-made for seasoned trekkers. It offers more than just a visual feast of undulating mountains, terraced fields, misty valleys, and open grasslands. This journey also includes visits to local villages, including those inhabited by the ethnic Hmong. These villages, with their traditional homes that influenced the design of Avana’s villas, showcase the deep connection between the local Hmong community and the retreat. They play an integral role in tending to the rice fields that grace the property’s iconic landscape and in leading cultural classes at the Stilt House Museum, where artisans from various ethnic backgrounds also contribute their talents.
After conquering the summit, adventurers descend into local life with visits to ethnic Thai villages. Vietnam is a mosaic of over 50 recognized ethnic groups, each possessing a unique culture, set of traditions, and language. This journey also includes a gourmet picnic lunch, providing guests with a moment of respite amidst the breathtaking natural surroundings.
For those desiring a less strenuous trek, Avana offers the ‘Hmong Village Trek.’ This full-day adventure retains the rich cultural elements of the Adventure Trek but traverses terrain better suited for intermediate hikers. It commences in the Muong village, situated away from the property and home to the valley-dwelling Muong people. The trek meanders through meadows adorned with Hmong homes, follows winding red dirt roads frequented by buffalo, and delves into native forests. Similar to the Adventure Trek, a picnic lunch surrounded by nature is a cherished part of the experience.
Avana Retreat’s highlights include the Pung Waterfall, where guests can relish private dining by the water—an exclusive experience in Vietnam. Additionally, the Hidden Spring Lagoon beckons visitors to swim in natural spring water while sipping cocktails, with the option to return in the evening for an intimate dining experience. Lastly, the Orchid Spa offers treatment rooms perched above a meandering stream, providing serene views of the forest—a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Adventure Trek prices begin at VND1,350,000 (approximately USD57) for individual guests, with reduced rates for additional participants. For groups of 5-10 guests, the price per person decreases to VND780,000 (approximately USD33). The Hmong Village Trek starts at VND1,500,000 (approximately USD63) for solo travelers, with rates declining to VND780,000 (approximately USD33) per person when 5-10 people join. Avana Retreat provides local guides with basic English skills for all treks, and for those preferring more fluent English-speaking guides, this service is available for an additional fee. Reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance for each trek.
For further information, please visit: https://avanaretreat.com/.
