Vietnam’s newest eco-resort is breathtaking — see for yourself

It’s hard to imagine a more fitting name for Zannier Hotels Bãi San Hô, which translates to Bay of Corals. After all, the luxe new hotel is flanked by a private coral reef bay that’s nestled on a pristine strip of Vietnam’s Phu Yen coastline, said to be one of the country’s most biodiverse regions.

Sprawling across 98 hectares of rolling hills, ancient rice paddy fields, and bamboo groves, the retreat’s 71 standalone villas (from $500) are divided into three categories, which each nod to different architectural styles found in Vietnam: there are cosy wooden villas that sit among the rice paddy fields and are built on traditional stilts; spacious and airy beachfront villas that are reminiscent of native Cham people; and lush and rustic hilltop suites that evoke the style of local Eden communities and blend into the landscape. Interiors are adorned with Vietnamese paintings and cultural silk prints.

Dining options Bãi San Hô are as varied as the accommodation styles: the communal Bà Hai in the rice fields acts as a dining hall of sorts to bring guests together to enjoy the different cuisines of Vietnam from a menu inspired by family recipes; while satiating international dishes are served alongside panoramic views at Nhà Ô, and straight-from-the-ocean seafood is dished up at the fisherman’s hut-esque Làng Chài.

Unsurprisingly, wellness is also a key focus at the eco-resort. The Hoa Sen spa — which is inspired by its namesake, the lotus flower, a Buddhist symbol of purity and enlightenment — upholds nature as a healing force and draws on Vietnamese traditions for its exhaustive menu. The must-try signature treatment? The two-hour Hoa Sen Ritual, a head-to-toe detoxifying and balancing treatment that combines blends of lemongrass, ginger, seaweed, and local brandy to de-stress and promote vitality.

The Star understands the restrictions on travel during the coronavirus pandemic. But like you, we dream of travelling again, and we’re publishing this story with future trips in mind.