We still remember the first time we set foot in this mountainous region — when the morning mist blanketed the rocky slopes and the early sunlight filtered through the canopy of ancient trees. At that moment, I wondered: could we create a retreat where people do not dominate nature, but truly live in harmony with it? From that idea, we began our journey to build the resort using the very materials from the mountains and forests – wood from the regenerating old-growth forest, stones from the earth, and bamboo from the hands of the local people. Each house, each pathway was constructed with respect for the landscape, so that this place would not only be a destination for relaxation but also a tribute to the land of Ha Giang – a land that nurtures tranquility and inspires creativity in every individual.

Since then, this land has been cared for and reforested to revive its natural beauty. The resort, with 8 villas, 16 glamping sites, and 4 community houses, now perches on the mountainside, surrounded by waterfalls, rice fields, and dense forests.

Artisans from three ethnic minorities in Ha Giang taught us how to build earthen walls, weave bamboo ceilings, and thatch roofs with palm leaves. Thanks to their contributions, our villas always provide the best conditions in any season, cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Balana embodies the highland climate of Na Vin, Ha Giang. Nestled among the rolling mountains, Na Vin enjoys a distinctively cool climate year-round. In summer, the air is crisp and cool at night; in winter, mist blankets the paths, sometimes engulfing the village in a sea of white clouds. On sunny days, gentle golden light spreads across the valley, while when it rains, the mountains and forests don deep green hues and the rich scent of damp earth – all creating an atmosphere that is both pristine and vibrant, characteristic of the stony highlands.

Most of our staff are from ethnic minorities, whose previous income primarily came from two rice harvests in the fields. They came to Balana with limited education and no knowledge of hospitality and tourism services, but they always yearned to diversify and enhance their livelihoods.

We have provided free training programs to help them succeed. They are thrilled to have the opportunity to work and build a career in their beloved homeland, and now they have become an indispensable part of the Balana family.

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