A Green Space Rooted in Cultural Values
Few people would imagine that, just a few years ago, more than 10 hectares of low-lying land on the outskirts of Ha Tinh City remained largely undeveloped, waterlogged and covered with marshland. Following the approval of an investment and development plan for Green ECO, hundreds of billions of Vietnamese dong were invested by the enterprise with great dedication and determination to transform the area into a harmonious landscape where nature and people coexist. That vision has gradually taken shape as a natural ink-wash painting, as if bestowed by nature itself.
Today, Green ECO has evolved into a destination catering to a wide range of needs, from seminars, reunions and birthday celebrations to music gatherings, breakfast and coffee featuring Ngoc Linh ginseng, fishing clubs, wedding photography and experiential learning activities. For those simply seeking relaxation after a stressful working day, a leisurely walk is enough. More than 2,000 metres of lakeside pathways allow visitors to admire the bird island, while boat trips along the Cay River offer a chance to enjoy the clear waters and tranquil scenery.
Although located close to the centre of Ha Tinh City and alongside the North–South arterial route, Green ECO retains a peaceful and secluded atmosphere, shielded by rows of trees reflected on the lake. Particularly distinctive are two lush green islands that provide a habitat for egrets, herons, laughingthrushes and other bird species. During the migratory season, thousands of white egrets gather across the islands, filling the air with their calls and creating a rare sense of wilderness in the heart of the city.
Green ECO is not merely a recreational and leisure destination. It also seeks to create a space where nature meets traditional cultural values, modern lifestyles and digital platforms. Amid the greenery are spaces dedicated to spiritual and cultural heritage, including places of Buddhist worship and areas honouring renowned Vietnamese cultural figures such as the great poet Nguyen Du and President Ho Chi Minh.
Visitors can enjoy tea ceremonies, read books, discuss verses from The Tale of Kieu, or quietly contemplate a game of Chinese chess. If the trees and lakes bring a sense of peace, these cultural spaces provide opportunities for visitors to explore, reflect and reconnect with their cultural roots.
Green ECO also offers agricultural experiences, fishing and communication and life-skills training programmes, including activities designed for women from different walks of life. This open and flexible model can accommodate a wide range of visitors, from families and groups of friends to organisations and businesses.
The value of Green ECO today lies not only in its infrastructure, but also in its mature system of trees, waterways and ecological spaces, developed and nurtured over time. The destination responds to the growing demand of a tourism industry undergoing transformation – a trend in which people are increasingly seeking green spaces for relaxation, social connection, experiential travel and health and wellness.
Outdoor BBQ “Choose, Grill, Serve Yourself and Create Your Own Joy”
One of the experiences that Green ECO places particular emphasis on is its outdoor BBQ service based on a self-service model. With the philosophy of “Choose – Grill – Serve Yourself – Create Your Own Joy”, visitors are free to select ingredients, prepare their own food and enjoy their meals in an open-air setting.
The BBQ area features complimentary grilling huts equipped with cooking utensils, charcoal and convenient seating, together with a team of service robots. The model not only gives customers greater freedom and flexibility, but also creates a warm and intimate atmosphere suitable for family gatherings, reunions with friends and informal get-togethers.
Packaged food products are subject to strict controls on origin and quality, ensuring food safety, while prices are clearly displayed so that visitors can make their choices with confidence.
In addition to BBQ, guests can enjoy a light breakfast or a premium cup of coffee by ordering directly at the counter – a simple and convenient option for those wishing to start their day in one of the city's rare green retreats.
While outdoor BBQ creates a casual and interactive dining experience, the VIP seafood restaurant offers an entirely different culinary atmosphere. Seven hexagonal pavilions surround two large wooden houses, covering an area of more than 200 square metres. Designed with privacy and comfort in mind, the area is suitable for meetings, celebrations, business receptions and private dining.
Notably, this dining space is operated directly by a French professional, contributing to a refined and distinctive style of organisation and service with a Western-European touch.
With its philosophy of combining ecology – culture – cuisine – wellness, Green ECO is gradually establishing itself as a multi-experience destination.
Nurturing Body, Mind and Spirit in Nature
Beyond cuisine and leisure, Green ECO has developed a range of wellness services based on the philosophy of restoring the Body – Mind – Spirit. Visitors can choose from therapeutic massage, herbal foot soaks, yoga, meditation and singing-bowl experiences, all delivered by professionally trained and courteous staff.
A particularly appealing feature is the setting in which these services are provided: Amidst a green landscape, beside a meandering stream and crystalclear ponds, and beneath the shade of mature trees. After a busy day, simply taking some time to walk beneath the trees, enjoy a cup of tea, meditate or care for one's body in such a tranquil environment can become an essential part of a journey to restore energy and inner balance.
With its philosophy of combining ecology – culture – cuisine – wellness, Green ECO is gradually establishing itself as a multi-experience destination. Visitors may come for just a few hours to enjoy a cup of Ngoc Linh ginseng coffee or a meal, organise a meeting or gathering, or stay longer to immerse themselves in the green surroundings, explore local culture and rejuvenate both body and mind. There is no need to leave the city to find a genuine moment of tranquillity in nature. This is precisely what Green ECO aspires to offer: a green sanctuary where people can rediscover relaxation, meaningful connections and authentic values amid the rhythm of contemporary life.
Mr. Ha Van Thach, former Vice Chairman of the Ha Tinh Provincial People's Committee and now Chairman of the Management Board of the Nguyen Du – The Tale of Kieu Heritage Conservation and Promotion Fund, said that Green ECO is a unique eco-tourism destination in the region. According to him, the attraction lies not only in its cultural and culinary experiences but also in its connection with two major cultural heritages: Nguyen Du's The Tale of Kieu and Vi, Giam folk singing of Nghe Tinh, recognised as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
As we left Green ECO, one simple statement from the investor remained with us: “We returned to our beloved hometown of Ha Tinh to contribute to the revival of Green ECO and to the development of the province's tourism sector. We are not overly focused on business. We simply hope to create a distinctive destination that visitors to Ha Tinh will remember – a place called Green ECO Eco- Tourism Destination”.
By Anh Binh
Photo: Provided by Green ECO Communications.
