Introduction
To the south of the Central Highlands region, Dalat is the most popular tourist spot in the highlands, but remains relatively quiet. Known as the City of Eternal Spring, its temperate climate and misty mountain views make for a peaceful retreat.
At 1,500 metres up, the old colonial hill station sits beside the man-made lake of Xuan Huong, surrounded by mountain peaks and lush greenery, waterfalls and flowering valleys. Dalat itself is host to a colourful market and the last emperor of Vietnam's summer palace, built in 1933. The city was developed as a resort destination by the French, reflected in the colonial architecture – and miniature Eiffel Tower replica – in the centre. The city is also home to the Gaudi-inspired Hang Nga guesthouse, known locally as the ‘crazy house', though there are plenty of classic accommodation options to choose from.
