Overview
This former residence of the French envoy in colonial days is the place to stay in the city of Hué in central Vietnam. Hué is steeped in history, from the days of the imperial court to the Vietnam War, and La Résidence is perfectly located for getting around yet also nicely secluded. It was fully refurbished in 2011, when new wings were added. The 30m saltwater pool next to the river is fabulous and the spa is also first class (try the Monticelli mud wrap).
Next to the Perfume River, on the opposite bank from the Citadel and the Imperial City (based on the Forbidden City in Beijing), within a pleasant riverbank stroll of the town.
La Résidence, in the Vietnamese city of Hué, resembles a landlocked ocean liner of the Twenties, says Nigel Richardson.
With 122 rooms and suites, La Résidence prides itself on being a boutique hotel. Rooms feature dark wood, silks, Art Deco features and Wi-Fi, and most have views across the river to the Citadel. The Resident Suite, on the top floor of the old governor's house, has a wonderful rooftop terrace with river views and isn't extortionate, at £235 per night.Food & drink 7/10
Most tourists eat in town but if you feel like splashing out, Le Parfum restaurant – a stunning setting of black lacquer, old photos and tropical plants – offers high-quality French and Asian fusion dishes: rice rolls (about £3), duck foie gras (£12), Australian beef tenderloin (£18). Elsewhere on the ground floor, Le Gouverneur Bar sprawls rather and lacks intimacy.
