When you arrive at Phu Yen, you’re to concur. You will also soon discover that Sao Viet Resort & Spa is the next big thing in the local resort scene. This four-star upscale accommodation is located on Thom Hill (Pineapple Hill), which offers unbelievable sea views.

Guests will find 83 beautifully decorated rooms and villas spread over 45 acres of the mountain. From a distance Sao Viet appears like an Alpine village in summertime, complete with clear blue skies and verdant surroundings.

All the bedrooms are artfully furnished ancient Vietnamese style architecture and more modern, penthouse-styled apartments. All have smooth silk cushions and matching bedspread, as well as private balconies overlooking either the lush garden or the inviting seawater. The resort has a 800sqm swimming pool with a hydraulic pool set under the waterfall cave and a mini-zoo with deer, ostriches, wild boars, sheep, peacocks, pheasants and rabbits – something the kids will love.

Guests fond of hitting the spa can enjoy a host of treatments and indulgences – soak your weary bones in hot mineral water or kickback on a hot ‘lon antioxidant bed’ made in Japan. The professional spa staff provides a variety of treatments, including body massages, facials and reflexology using traditional or western techniques. You can also loosen up in the sauna, steam bath, or Jacuzzi (which uses natural mineral water from the locality).

The beach is called Bai Xep and it’s a joy to stroll along the shoreline or plunge into the clear, blue water – and yes, it really is clear and blue! It’s the perfect spot to unwind and sip on a cold beer or a cocktail while feasting on fresh seafood. You must sample the local tuna at Sao Viet’s restaurant – order up some sashimi or have it cooked in a steaming hotpot. Either way it’s mouthwatering! Seafood lovers will enjoy oven-baked oysters, steamed garoupa and lobster served with creamy mayonnaise or tangy Vietnamese dipping sauces.

Sao Viet Resort & Spa is a rising star on the tourism scene, boosted by the National Tourism year, which has focused on coastal regions and singled out Phu Yen as a coastal town set for big things thanks to its pristine beaches, the rugged landscape and peaceful local sites such as O Loan lagoon.

Timeout