According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thi Thu Phuong, director of VICAST, Vietnam has great potential to develop mountain retreat, thanks to its majestic natural landscapes, fresh climate, and unique cultural heritage of ethnic communities in the highlands.

This type of tourism not only meets the demand for health care and relaxation but also offers an opportunity for visitors to experience and connect with local cultural values, she said.

However, Dr. Phuong emphasised that the development of mountain retreat must go hand in hand with the preservation of natural resources and indigenous cultures, as well as ensuring safety. Planning should take an integrated approach, focusing on building a sustainable tourism ecosystem rather than just exploiting resources.

Science and technology, culture and arts, and innovation will be key pillars to enhance the quality and competitiveness of mountain retreat products in Vietnam, she stressed.

At the seminar, Dr. Dao Duy Tuan, deputy director of the Department of Education and Culture at the Government Office, proposed developing mountain retreat products based on seasonal and target market group needs.

He highlighted the importance of creating a unified seasonal tourism calendar, such as spring for flower tourism and festivals, summer for cooling retreats, autumn for rice harvest experiences, and winter for snow and ice festivals.

Seasonal promotional programmes will help maximize the potential of each season and attract targeted markets, he said.

In addition, Dr. Tuan underscored the need to diversify mountain retreat products to cater to different customer groups. These products could include family-friendly experiences (such as children’s play areas and agricultural experiences), services for the elderly (health care, spas), or services for international tourists (trekking, community lodging, phototour activities).

Dr. Tuan pointed out that mountain retreat in Vietnam is facing a significant opportunity due to the country's diverse landscapes, climate, and rich local cultures. However, to ensure sustainable development, he said, a clear strategy is needed in building products based on seasons and specific target groups.

Developing seasonal tourism products will help create a diverse array of offerings that match new travel trends. If implemented comprehensively, mountain retreat in Vietnam can become a national brand, contributing to affirming Vietnam’s position on the global tourism map, said the expert.

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