I have visited Cat Ba Island many times—so many that I can no longer keep count. Yet every return brings a completely different feeling, which is why this destination remains one of the most inspiring choices for Cat Ba Island tours, often paired with memorable Ninh Binh tours for a complete Northern Vietnam experience.
Just two months ago, I was here for a business trip. However, this visit came with a new purpose. One of the most remarkable highlights was discovering and experiencing Cabalina Retreat, a newly developed resort with a distinctive architectural style, launched in 2025—perfectly suited for travelers seeking refined and immersive Lan Ha Bay tours, especially when combined with scenic Ninh Binh tours.
Nestled in a small valley known as Ao Coi Valley, the retreat is surrounded by majestic limestone mountains—an iconic feature of Lan Ha Bay. Seawater channels gently weave through mangrove forests and protected ecosystems, creating an extraordinary setting often featured in premium Cat Ba Island tours and eco-focused Lan Ha Bay tours, echoing the dramatic landscapes found in Ninh Binh tours.
From Cabalina Retreat, the view opens onto lush green mangrove lagoons, where summer sunlight spreads across the water and blends with the fresh scent of the sea. The atmosphere here feels like stepping into a pristine biosphere—completely removed from the lively center of Cat Ba town, and far from the fast-paced life of Hai Phong and Hà Nội—yet offering the same sense of tranquility and authenticity that defines the finest Ninh Binh tours.
There are places you visit—and places that quietly reshape the way you feel about travel. Cabalina Grove belongs to the latter.
Long before it became a refined eco-retreat, this hidden valley on Cat Ba Island was known only to local fishermen and forest keepers. Tucked away in Ao Coi Valley, the land sat between limestone cliffs and tidal mangroves, where the rhythm of nature—rising tides, shifting light, and birdsong—defined the passing of time.
When the vision for Cabalina Grove began in 2025, it wasn’t about building a resort in the conventional sense. The idea was more subtle: to create a place that feels as though it has always belonged here. Architecture was designed to follow the contours of the valley, not reshape it. Materials were chosen for their ability to age naturally. Spaces were left open—to the breeze, to the light, and to the surrounding ecosystem.
Days at Cabalina unfold slowly. Morning light filters through the mangrove canopy. The scent of the sea drifts in with the tide. In the distance, the limestone silhouettes of Lan Ha Bay rise like quiet guardians of the coast. There is no urgency here—only a gentle invitation to pause, to breathe, and to reconnect.
What makes Cabalina Grove truly special is not just its setting, but its spirit. It reflects the essence of the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve—a place where nature, culture, and sustainable living exist in delicate balance. Guests don’t just stay here; they become part of that rhythm, even if only for a short time.
And perhaps that is why, long after leaving, many find themselves drawn back—not just to Cat Ba Island, but to Cabalina Grove itself. Because some journeys are not about discovering a destination, but about rediscovering a quieter, more meaningful way to experience the world.
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
If you’re looking for the perfect Northern Vietnam combo, this route connects mountains – countryside – sea in one seamless journey:
Our 3–6 day journeys through Northern Vietnam combine the very best of Ninh Binh – Lan Ha Bay Cat Ba Island Tours with authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. From the tranquil waterways of Ninh Binh to the untouched coastlines of Cat Ba Island, each moment reveals hidden landscapes rarely seen by mass tourism.
Sail through emerald waters on elegant Lan Ha Bay cruises, where limestone karsts rise dramatically from the sea and secluded beaches invite quiet relaxation. Kayak into hidden lagoons, swim in crystal-clear bays, and enjoy peaceful sunsets far from the crowds.
These thoughtfully designed Ninh Binh – Lan Ha Bay Cat Ba Island Tours also offer meaningful cultural connections—cycle through Viet Hai village, meet local fishermen, and experience daily life in its most genuine form. Along the way, explore tropical forests, ancient caves, and pristine natural reserves that highlight Vietnam’s rich biodiversity.
Perfect for European travellers seeking refined, immersive journeys, this route blends nature, culture, and comfort into a truly unforgettable experience.
Our 3-day journey through Ninh Binh – Lan Ha Bay – Cat Ba Island offers the perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. Begin in Ninh Binh with a serene boat ride through limestone caves and peaceful countryside cycling, where local life unfolds in quiet villages and rice fields. Continue to Cat Ba Island and explore the untouched beauty of Lan Ha Bay with kayaking, swimming, and scenic cruises among hidden lagoons. Sail past dramatic limestone karsts, discover secluded beaches, and enjoy fresh seafood while watching breathtaking sunsets over the bay.
Experience the Best of North Vietnam through Private & Luxury Journeys Crafted Just for You
Impress Travel offers daily tours to attractive destinations in the capital of Hanoi as well as curated journeys under Impress Travel & Ninh Binh – North Vietnam Package Tours, designed to explore the most iconic highlights of the region, including Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Sapa. For travelers seeking elevated experiences, our Ninh Binh & North Vietnam Luxury Private tours combine comfort, exclusivity, and authentic cultural discovery. We also offer tailored experiences such as Ninh Binh private luxury tours, alongside adventure programs to the Northeast and Northwest regions, including Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Bac Kan, and Mu Cang Chai.
Our products focus on private tours, small groups, families, and couples who value flexibility and personalized service. With Impress Travel & Destination Management Company (DMC), every journey across Hanoi and North Vietnam is thoughtfully crafted to deliver exceptional value, seamless experiences, and unforgettable memories.
To explore Hanoi Capital's hidden charm for the first day, visit the most iconic attractions such as historical President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Ancient Temple of Literature, tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi elderly quarter. Then, the upcoming of Hanoi – Halong Tour, we will have an amazing 2 day and 1 night stay on an outstanding cruise to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
We will explore the most amazing places in the north of Vietnam. We will bring you to explore Hanoi charming city. Then, we are going to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh where we visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy the boat trip in Tam Coc and to discover the countryside. The unforgettable time is on Halong bay cruise that bring you to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
To bring travelers to discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi’s hidden charm .The stunning beauty of North Vietnam come up with Sapa’s discovery were attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay
To discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi. Then, to explore stunning beauty of Sapa where we are attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh (Tam Coc).
