Located it 1, 500 meters above sea level in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Dalat was once popular with French colonialists, who was were charmed by the town’s cool climate, pine forests and profusion of flowers.
A narrow, rocky path winds from downtown Dalat past seemingly endless villas, the view opening suddenly to reveal a vast meadow, as peaceful as scene in fairytale. Pine trees fill the air with their pungent scent, evoking childhood memories as I scan trees red-tiled roofs, tone-paved paths and smooth lawns. Located in Vietnam’s Central Highland, Dalat retains the dreamy atmosphere that has charmed generations of visitors.
Locate on 35 acres of what was once known as the Bellevue Quarter is the Evason Ana Mandara Villas & Spa, which companies 17 restored colonial era villas. Built between 1920 and 1930, the villas are surrounded by lush gardens and lawns, each one inviting quiet contemplation. Behind a row of trees I see a wooden carriage and picture a team of spirited horses drawing it through the mist.
Long ago, visitors took carriage tours around Xuan Huong Lake and the Valley of Love. In the early decades of the 19th century they toured the surrounding hills in French motorcars like the old Citroens and Peugeots that are parked in the resort’s grounds. Painted in black and white and as shiny as mirrors, these proud old cars recall the romance of times gone by.
Linked with stone-paved paths, the resort’s restored villas retain an old fashioned atmosphere but feature modern comforts. One villa house a restaurant and another holds a luxurious spa. In my simply-finished but beautiful room, a wood-framed window opens towards a forest. I inhale scent of pine. The only sound is that of the wind blowing through the trees.
Hidden behind lush pineapple plants the swimming pool is as cool as a mountain steam. The scent of herbs wafts from the spa. All of the services one would expect at a high-and hotel are on offer, yet the Hideaway retains a simple, old-fashioned atmosphere that invites relaxation and romance. Wandering the shady grounds is like going back in time, to a quieter and more gracious era.
This article written by Lanh Nguyen from Vietnam Heritage Travel
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