Sa Pa is a healing destination worth visiting in 2026.

In its travel trend forecast for the year of the Horse 2026, inspired by the 12 zodiac animals, the prestigious travel magazine Travel + Leisure Asia suggested Sa Pa ( Lao Cai ) as the ideal destination in Asia for those born in the year of the Ox seeking peace and rejuvenation.

The magazine describes Sa Pa as the perfect definition of a slow-paced lifestyle. "This destination beckons with its terraced rice fields, tranquility, serenity, and endless beauty," wrote Travel + Leisure.

The beauty of Sapa at night.

The beauty of Sa Pa at night. Photo by Linh Boo

In recent years, Sa Pa has undergone a dramatic transformation, becoming the ideal haven for those seeking balance and rejuvenation. Instead of rushing to check in, Sa Pa invites you to slow down and appreciate the simple joys of everyday life, where every corner is a perfect space to breathe and recharge.

The healing journey here relies entirely on nature. The majestic Hoang Lien Son mountain range, the Muong Hoa valley, the terraced rice fields layer upon layer, and the winding O Quy Ho pass create a space of absolute harmony with nature.

Villages in Sa Pa during the rice harvest season. Photo: Linh Boo

Stunning natural scenery on the summit of Fansipan. Photo: Dinh Dai

One of the unmissable rejuvenating experiences when traveling to Sa Pa is conquering Fansipan peak. At the "roof of Indochina," amidst a magnificent spiritual complex with temples in the style of the 15th and 16th centuries, the sound of temple bells echoing through the mist will help you find a rare moment of peaceful tranquility.

The natural scenery in Ta Phin village. Photo: Xuan Xuan

Visiting rustic villages like Cat Cat, Lao Chai, Ta Van, Ta Phin... helps tourists easily cast aside all worries and find peace of mind. In particular, May Village, located at the foot of Fansipan Mountain, is the only place in Sa Pa that brings together the living spaces of seven ethnic communities: H'Mong, Xa Pho, Tay, Giay, Red Dao, Thai, and Ha Nhi.

Spending a day here, you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the lives of the highland people through everyday experiences such as sitting by a warm fire, learning how to weave cloth, printing with beeswax, and even wrapping your own black sticky rice cakes and sipping on a glass of strong corn wine.

Tourists experience bathing in herbal remedies of the Red Dao people. Photo: Xuan Xuan.

Amidst the characteristic chill of the highlands, the feeling of immersing oneself in a warm bath infused with the herbal scents of the Red Dao people is a wonderful experience. With more than 10 types of secret forest leaves, this therapy not only helps improve blood circulation but also dispels all fatigue.

In addition, wellness tourism, including yoga, meditation, and extended retreats, is gradually developing in Sa Pa. Many resorts, homestays, and vacation destinations have introduced programs for exercise and relaxation amidst nature, contributing to the diversification of local tourism products.

With its stunning natural landscapes, pleasant climate, and unique cultural and wellness experiences, Sa Pa continues to be a suitable choice for travelers seeking balance and rejuvenation in 2026.

Source: https://laodong.vn/du-lich/tin-tuc/sa-pa-la-diem-den-chua-lanh-dang-ghe-tham-nam-2026-1641752.html