Sapa

The heavenly wonder of Sapa in spring

Not many people know that the peaches of Sapa bloom at two different times of year. You will find blossoms in November and December as well as after the Lunar New Year (February to March).

Although there are not so many kinds of flowers blooming, compared to somewhere like Dalat, Sapa is blessed with a vast number of awe-inspiring mountains and valleys, which create a heavenly realm that has its own distinctive charm. That’s why my wife and I  choose Sapa for our own honeymoon. My wife and I agreed to bring as little luggage as possible to we could travel freely and explore the natural beauty of the Hoang Lien mountain range.

Just the two of us

It was not the first time either of us have come to Sapa, but it was the first time we have travelled to Sapa together! I felt quite emotional, but I was also filled with gratitude, as I held her hand and appreciated this was the beginning of our married life and the first step toward making a family of our own. We took a romantic walk along some serene mountain paths which are flanked with flowers on both sides. It was like we had entered a charming painting. We couldn’t stop smiling.

Fortunately, during our time in Sapa the weather indulged us with wonderful sunlight but the majestic mountains are truly an incredible sight, no matter what the weather is like. When we gazed up, we admired the clouds and blue skies. When we looked into the distance we admired the lush green hills and the pink cherry blossoms.

When the mist descended, and the temperature dropped, we chuckled happily. After all, when the weather is cooler, the hugs are tighter!

Favourite check-in destinations

The most memorable check-in spots for us included the Pink Cherry Blossom forest by the Oolong Tea Hill, which is on the way to O Quy Ho (Heaven's Gate). This destination is currently free for tourists to enter at a specified time. However, there is a cap on the number of visitors to ensure the environment and landscapes are protected. So you should make sure you’re early.

The next destination for us was Heaven's Gate, which is on the peak of O Quy Ho Pass. This is said to be the best place to view the sunset when visiting Sapa. At this time of year, the most beautiful time to be there is from around 5.15pm to 5.45pm. The sun will still be glimmering, and even if the sun is partially hidden behind a mountain, the sky is always filled with splendid colors. One day you mighty be treated to a pink sky, but on another day it might be more purple, if there are clouds, and if it is clear, the sky can look more yellowy or orang.

Sometimes the sunlight will spread across the majestic mountains all around and you will be treated to a magical, panoramic view. We followed the instructions of friends who had visited before and stood close to the railing of the stairs so as to be able to capture the most beautiful and natural angle of the mountains and the sunset behind.

Romantic treats and snacks

One more breathtaking destination that I must also mention is the sumptuous space and art décor style of the café on the 10th floor of Hotel De La Couple. From the cafe, you will be treated to all kinds of wondrous views. You will also get to savour some delicious drinks. Yes, the price will be a little higher in this luxury cafe, but they use premium ingredients. For example, the hot chocolate is made with Marou dark chocolate. The coffee is also delicious. It’s definitely worth a splurge!

As darkness falls, we also enjoyed walking around to experience the night market, where we snacked on some local specialities – fragrant grilled chestnuts, a local kind salmon sashimi, and even a comforting ethnic dish made from horse’s organs! In the chilly spring air, it was such a joy to discover the natural beauty and local charm of Sapa!

By Mike Nhan Phan