Trang An Eco Holiday Retreat, a Rural Vietnam Getaway

Each time I visit Vietnam, I discover a new place to spend more time. Trang An Eco Holiday Retreat is one of those places. Plus, it’s in a part of Vietnam you don’t want to miss.  Located in Ninh Binh province, this hotel is surrounded by a landscape of craggy limestone mountains, lush fields, and an abundance of water. With its canals, lakes, streams, and rivers, it’s compared to a dry land version of Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam’s tourist hotspots. 

The retreat’s close proximity to the 1oth century Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the boat cave tours on the Tam Coc River, and the heart-pounding, never-ending steps up Mua Mountain pair scenery and history with a place to chill. An advantage of an overnight stay, or longer, is the chance to explore the area at a more leisurely pace. 

Trang An Eco Holiday Retreat’s Offerings

With stunning views from almost any angle, Trang An Eco Holiday Retreat is part of the tour bus travel and independent traveler crowd for a reason. The combination of paved and dirt roads that stretch for miles makes the resort a perfect spot for cycling enthusiasts. Cycling dabblers are happy here as well. The resort’s bikes, free for guests to use, are sturdy and in good shape.  Grabbing a bike is as easy as picking one from the mix next to the canal. If you are not sure where to head, posted signboards have maps of the region. In addition to marking landmarks, the signs provide a good overview of the location of this part of Vietnam. 

When not on a bike, there are plenty of options for hanging out. Each of the guest rooms has a small patio porch with chairs. Tucked in garden spots throughout the property, offer a creative assortment of seating, tables, and plant containers. Metal barrels are turned into couches, and tires are plant hangers.  The bar next to the pool serves up a variety of mixed drinks, soda, and a mix of beer options. The Bia Viet is local and quite good. 

Another perfect chill for a while spot is the large pool. Surrounded by plenty of seating and foliage, the pool is inviting and well-kept. Lush trees provide shade for those wanting less sun exposure.

About the Guest Rooms

Guest rooms with views of the canal, limestone mountains, the terrace, or the pool are clean and comfortable. The combination of rustic and modern is well done. For example, bamboo paneling is an aesthetically pleasing design feature. Tile floors tie in Vietnamese building features, and beds are another mix of locally crafted and modern.  The wooden frames are locally made, but the thick mattresses appeal to Western tastes and comfort.

Each guest room has a private bathroom with a walk-in shower and blends the rustic and modern look. Bathroom sinks with modern fixtures are on top of granite vanities, and bathroom mirrors fit the rustic vibe.  Toiletries, slippers, an electric tea kettle, a hair dryer, a small refrigerator, a safe, and a clothes rack are part of each room’s amenities. Great air-conditioning is another welcome room feature. Wi-Fi is free, and it works well throughout the property. 

Dining Options

The large dining room is connected to the resort’s reception area. Large floor-to-ceiling windows create an airy feel and offer lovely views of the mountains, the pool, and the surrounding gardens.  Because there’s enough room between the tables, the dining room is not particularly crowded regardless of the number of people being served. 

In an effort to provide a wide variety of dishes, the buffet lunch is extensive with several Vietnamese dishes and Western taste choices. Fish, pork, chicken, beef, and vegetarian are among the options. I tried a bit of everything, and all was well-made and delicious. There is a bounty of fresh fruit as well. I also ordered a beer from the server who came around to take drink orders.

You can also order food off the menu from the bar. The bar is a cool blend of tile floors, thatch, bamboo, and a clever use of tire planters and metal barrels. 

Room Options and Rates

Rooms are available in several configurations, ranging from one king bed to two beds to three. Book a room at Booking.com or directly with the hotel. Trang An Eco Holiday Retreat does have a Facebook page. Room rates vary depending on the season. Currently, at Booking.com, a Deluxe Bungalow for two people is $30. Rates can go up to $86 for this room.

Check rates online at Expedia or Booking.com.

If you are traveling with an infant, cribs are available on request.