In the Hoang Lien Mountains, close to the Chinese border, sits the picturesque market town of Sapa. This is a region of beautiful mountain scenery and remote villages inhabited by a variety of hill tribes. Sapa is reached by a scenic train journey from Hanoi, and due to the French colonial influence, the town has a distinctly European aesthetic. The feel of an alpine resort is enhanced by the thick pine forests of the surrounding slopes, and by the fact that the restaurant menu in hotels tends to include raclette and fondue. Trekking is the main reason to take Sapa holidays. There are treks to suit all levels of fitness and enthusiasm, and all are accompanied by English-speaking guides. The trails take in a diverse range of landscapes, as well as some of the hill tribe villages, where life continues relatively untouched by the modern world. At lower altitudes, the trails lead through rice paddies and orchards, at higher altitudes through bamboo forest and pine trees. Sapa is also the starting point for treks to the top of Mt. Fansipan, at 3,143m the highest peak in Vietnam (and the entire Indochina Peninsula). The area is also renowned for the hundreds of species of orchid that grow in the forests. Weekend markets in Sapa and the nearby villages of Bac Ha and Can Cau are another attraction, and are a good place to pick up colourful clothing, jewellery and other local handicrafts.

Sapa holiday ideas

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Sapa Guide

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What can you expect in Sapa?

The idyllic mountain town of Sapa is perched dramatically on the edge of a dizzying plateau and is a great place from which to explore northern Vietnam. Nestled within lush paddy fields and emerald-green tea plantations in the Lao Cai Province, this market town has found a delicate balance between unexplored wilderness and buzzy street stalls where you’ll find rainbow-hued fabrics, fresh vegetables and traditional clothing. Take a step back from the hustle and bustle of the centre of town and look out over the views of rolling peaks and valleys as the fresh, tranquil serenity of the mountains takes over.


What to do in Sapa

Sapa holidays are the perfect excuse to slow it down and reconnect with Mother Nature. With seemingly endless forests and fields, this area is perfect for exploring on foot or you can head into the hills with a guide on a mountain biking tour. Equally, the Sapa Culture Museum might grab the history buff’s attention, providing a deep dive into the French colonial past of the area and all the weird and wonderful traditions that have been born as a result. The Lao Cai Province is also home to Mount Fansipan which is the highest peak in Vietnam. Head up the leafy slopes with a guide and you’ll be gifted with breath-taking views and stunning pagodas at the top. If taking it easy is more your thing, hop in the cable car for some astounding views, just without the tired legs.

Best places to go in Vietnam



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