Two Lodges Run Retreat
3-day 2-night Sapa retreat at Topas Riverside Lodge and Topas Ecolodge
Join our professional running guides on invigorating trail runs along challenging mountain terrain with breath-taking views of the surrounding landscape. Relax in comfort at our two Sapa hideaways, bringing the whole family along for an adventure that will appeal to everyone.
Ask us for our non-runner supplement rate here!
Trip Type: Active | Trail Level: Challenging | Service Level: Standard
Can’t make this date? Sign up for the next one here!
Route Preview
Day 1: Topas Ecolodge Awaits
Hanoi - Topas Ecolodge
Start your journey with Topas Mountain Express, departing between 6:30 – 7:00am. Relax and enjoy the magnificent views on the way to Topas Ecolodge, with complimentary Wi-Fi, snacks and water available. Leaving the city suburbs behind, you’ll soon be afforded views of the mountains, misty terraced fields, and the dreamy Muong Bo Valley. Once you arrive, check into your private bungalow before dining at our characterful stilt house restaurant.
The afternoon is free to spend at your leisure. Warm up your running legs by trying out the tracks near Topas Ecolodge; take a dip in one of our unique infinity pools; pamper yourself with spa treatments at Rice Spa; or simply relax with a drink on your bungalow’s private balcony.
Running distance: N/A
Included meals: N/A
Overnight: Topas Ecolodge
Day 2: Rise - Run - Rest
Topas Ecolodge - Topas Riverside Lodge
Wake up and enjoy the mountain vistas surrounding your bungalow as a nutritious breakfast is delivered to your bungalow. Once you’re ready, begin preparation for today’s guided run through ethnic minority villages and magnificent natural settings to Topas Riverside Lodge, our wild riverside jungle property.
The route starts on the same section as the famous VMM 100KM route, with a gentle descent to a nearby valley and then Thanh Phu Village. Cross rice terraces and corn fields, waving to members of the Red Dzao ethnic minority as your feet hit the trail. Stop for a breather in Nam Nhiu village, filling up your water bottle and replenishing your energy with some light snacks before continuing towards Nam Cang Village, one of the most remote villages in Sapa and the end of the run.
Check in to your comfortable room and enjoy a refreshing shower, followed by a welcome lunch inspired by the region’s specialty produce, herbs and spices. The afternoon is yours to do as you please, soaking your muscles in a Red Dzao herbal bath, sipping tea on the riverside patio, or perhaps going for a swim in the two natural river pools by the lodge.
Running distance: 17 km
Included Meals: breakfast, lunch, snacks
Overnight: Topas Riverside Lodge
Note: If you have non-runners on the trip with you, they can go directly to Topas Riverside Lodge by shuttle bus to wait and cheer you on.
Day 3: The Secret Valley
Topas Riverside Lodge - Nam Pa Valley - Hanoi
Let the sounds of the rushing river act as an alarm clock this morning and gear up for a recovery run after eating a light breakfast in the lodge’s beautiful dining room with river views.
Your guide will take you on a small path leading up a nearby mountain side towards the hidden valley of Nam Pa. Along the way, breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the views of towering peaks and bamboo forests. You’ll then reach the idyllic Nam Pa River which runs through scenic rice paddies. This is a unique spot to refill your water and have a few snacks before further exploring the jungle on a small loop.
Take some time to dip your feet in the river before returning to Topas Riverside Lodge for a quick shower and delicious, well-earned lunch. After packing your things, your driver will transfer you back to Hanoi where you can reflect on what we hope will have been an incredible experience of running in the mountains.
Running distance: 9km
Included Meals: breakfast, snacks, lunch
Note: If you have non-runners on the trip with you, they can participate in one of the many experiences available at the Lodge before joining you for lunch.
INCLUSION
- Transfer by Topas Mountain Express Hanoi – Topas Ecolodge; Thanh Phu Bridge – Hanoi (Seat in coach)
- Transfer Topas Riverside Lodge – Thanh Phu Bridge
- 1 night at Topas Ecolodge (twin shared Executive Bungalow)
- 1 night at Topas Riverside Lodge (twin shared Standard room)
- 2 guided runs with local guide
- All meals as indicated in the program
- Water and snacks during run (bring your own bottle)
- All entrance tickets and tour permits to local villages and Hoang Lien National Park
- 1 complimentary herbal bath at Topas Riverside Lodge
EXCLUSION
- Alcoholic beverages, sodas, and juices
- Personal travel items
- Personal Insurance
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of travel insurance with adequate protection for the full duration of the program
Pick-up destinations and times are as follows:
- From Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Tay Ho Districts: 6:30 – 7:00 am
- From Noi Bai Airport – your flight must arrive by 7.30 am to join this program