Introduction
Sapa is perhaps the best-known destination in the hills of northern Vietnam. Discovered by the Western world in the early part of the 20th century, its quiet charm and cooler climate has attracted visitors ever since – just like the hill stations of northern India.
The old French town, home to the Dao, H'mong, Tay and Giay minority groups, is a perfect place from which to trek and explore the surrounding landscape, with Fansipan, the tallest mountain and the ‘Roof of Indochina' not far away. It's worth catching the train from Hanoi, for as it rises into the hills, you'll be treated to some spectacular views: shadows of mountain tops, casts of thick forest and rice paddies moulded to deep-green valleys.
