A view to a thrill

Vietnam's not lacking in lodgings of the luxury variety but, with the opening of Amanoi, Aman Resorts has upped the ante as only Aman can. Encircled by Nui Chua National Park, on the dramatic coastline south of Nha Trang, the contemporary beachside resort overlooks Vinh Hy, one of Vietnam's most beautiful bays.

The 90-minute drive from Cam Ranh airport, which services Nha Trang, takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rice paddies to tiny fishing villages and expansive, untouched, rugged coastline.

Typical of every Aman, the approach to the resort is simple, stylish and sign-free, along a winding road lit at night by glowing lanterns. Guests arrive at the Central Pavilion, a sleek and modern interpretation of an ancient Vietnamese communal house that stands sentinel on the highest hill, affording majestic views of the surrounding landscape from its terrace and the restaurant and bar.

The sprawling property is home to 31 ultra-private guest pavilions, several with their own pools, with chic but understated decor blending contemporary elegance with traditional Vietnamese architectural styles. The pick of 31 rooms - if you're not staying in one of the five Aman Villas with your own private chef and butler, that is - are the Ocean Pool Pavilions. A spa set beside a lotus-filled lake boasts treatment rooms with double baths and natural products complemented by traditional Vietnamese ingredients including herbs, rice and coffee. Doubles from $US750 ($840). See amanresorts.com.