In 2010, we started our dream of retreating in the foothill mountains of northwest Vietnam. We wanted to find an ‘off the beaten track’ and undiscovered destination, with beautiful scenery where visitors can soak in the natural beauty, trek through timeless landscapes and experience the local cuisine and lifestyle of the Northern hill tribal people.
Looking for alternative options of Sapa and Mai Chau, the popular destinations but over-developed, we found something untouched and extraordinary in Puluong. A “microcosm” of Northern Vietnam, containing Sapa’s magnificent mountain ranges; Mu Cang Chai’s stunning rice terrace fields; Cao Bang’s scenic rivers and waterfalls; Ha Giang’s breathtaking mountain passes and Mai Chau’s traditional villages of ethnic minorities who still retain their unique cultural heritage and way of living. Pu Luong area didn’t offer any tourism services besides very basic homestays. We saw the potential and believed that it was a place where we could create sustainable and unique travel products.
We went on the chase to find the perfect location within Pu Luong Nature Reserve for our Retreat. Every twist and turn, nook and cranny can reveal beautiful landscapes of terraced rice paddies and superb mountains. Many were shortlisted but we hadn’t stopped for better preparation: Close to the main road, easy connection to Hanoi and top-rated cities surrounding, good supply electricity and fresh water, as well as nice climate.
God blesses us with his gift in tranquil Đôn Village. Two families with two large wooden stilt houses set in the land that also boasted of stunning views across the valley along with easy access and utility supplies. An agreement on new living conditions has been made with the original property owners, as well as new careers for family members and a sincere promise to protect the condition and environment of the land.
And the Retreat slowly grew up by clever hands of local builders and carpenters. Levelling was mainly worked by hand with much-less-involved machines. Rocks and plants maintained well with few branches are cut off for better view. All buildings are short, constructed by eco-friendly materials and quite adaptable to the nature. The landlord 82-year-old lady Tran repeatedly reminded us about her treasured jackfruit tree that grew with her childhood. We have kept our promise. At that land, our suite room incorporated well with 2 jackfruit trees in balcony and bathroom, creating not only unique experience but expressing our respect to the nature. The two original stilt houses are kept as original structure. The local constructor by their clever hand moved it to proper places, now being restaurants and tearoom, providing excellent ambience for guests.
We converted two original fish ponds into infinity pools with an incredible view over mountain passes and terrace rice fields. We maintain the same location and sizes of the pool as exactly as the former fish ponds, to balance to the natural landscape. Spring water are in and out regularly, through our bio filter system keep our pool fresh and friendly with the environment.
In both construction and operating time, we are fully aware of the importance of a fusion of local ethnic design and decoration. Within the Retreat guests can see mass usage of local material: bamboo, stone, palm leafs…, creating a space of mini-Thai local village. We found local craftsmen who can create an interior design from ordinary utilities, with ceiling lamps from fish cages, bread baskets from crab holders, tablecloth from Thai embroidery skirts, etc. One of them is a man who cannot walk but can make outstanding pieces of stuff from bamboo, with whom we now remain good friends. Many young local fellows, previously was wild animal hunters, with our recruitment and inspiration, gradually change to nature protectors and remarkably contribute the preservation of their cultures and environment. Jobs for women is our priority too, with 75% of our workforce are females, free them from hard homework and evil custom, enhance their ranking in local communities.
Today with many new resorts presented elsewhere, Puluong Retreat, the pioneer, will not forget the initial days with a lot of obstacles: terrible infrastructure, limited transportation of material to the site, tough weather, lack of skilled workers. Finally, Puluong Retreat has transformed into a Princess, a diamond in the twinkling crown named Puluong. We are proud of handing help to local communities, bringing more jobs to young people and especially creating new careers in the area: Tourism services. The locals have continuously learned about service management for professionalism, cherish their homeland and cultures, and gradually and unconsciously respect and reserve it.
With our deep understanding of core values, charms and perfection in services, together with the liberality of nature and rich cultures, we proudly have created a true Retreat for travellers. A tranquil feeling, a loss of muscles and relaxing of spirit, are ideal things Puluong Retreat aims to maintain.
Welcome to our beautiful Puluong Retreat.
Don village, Ba Thuoc, Thanh Hoa
+84 24 3823 9988
+84 9695 00026 [Hotline]
contact@puluongretreat.com