On a deliciously quiet stretch of Vong Beach, Poulo Condor takes its promise of R&R very seriously. On arrival, you might think you're the very first person to set foot on Con Dao Island, before spying the whitewashed villas amongst the swathes of tropical trees. By day, the well-sheltered infinity pool provides a cooling oasis, the Yen Spa soothes your muscles (and your cares), and the gardens make for an idyllic stroll. Of course, Con Dao isn't short on action by any means - hike into the foothills of Chua Mountain, snorkel its mesmerising coral reefs, and discover its secluded beaches. Lonely Planet dubbed them among the most mysterious in the world after all...
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Poulo Condor was designed with a mix of Vietnamese traditions and French stylings. Enjoy Vietnamese cuisine at the main restaurant, Bistro des Iles, which strikes a classic note with its dark wood furnishings, jade-blue vases, and white-washed ceilings. Grab a drink by the pool or down at the beach bar with cushioned seats right on the sand - yes, the sunsets are a delight. The gardens are lush and cool with plenty of birdlife that drinks at the Lotus Pond, as well as the odd monkey.
Filled with natural light, the suites and villas are finished with sage-green doors and shutters, patterned tiles, and netted canopy beds. Some enjoy river views while others are steps away from the beach, a sight you'll take in from the spacious veranda. The bathrooms have deep, ceramic tubs and a rain shower (some are outdoor). Larger villas also have a private pool with a sensational view, as well as a lounge and dining area decorated in classic art pieces and molasses-stained furniture. The two-bedroom villa has a small pantry as well.
There is much to do and see on the Con Dao archipelago, whether it's trekking through the interior to spy crab-eating macaques or cycling along quaint, island roads to enjoy the charm of its little towns and munching on grilled seafood. Find watery coral formations of every shade to dive amidst, meander along the coast and pick one of the many human-free beaches to doze upon, and, between June to September, try your luck at spotting endangered turtles nesting.
The lackadaisical, untainted atmosphere - not be found anywhere else in the world!
Keep a look out for themed dinners, ranging from tasty seafood nights to BBQs on the beach.
The river and sea-facing rooms have vastly different views, so be sure to book accordingly.
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Private beaches and uninterrupted views in Vietnam’s best kept secret
