Sustainable Practices:
Nestled in the heart of Hoang Lien National Park, Topas Ecolodge is a result of the love of Vietnam, stemming from the dedicated efforts between Topas Travel and a local family in Sapa. Since its establishment in 2003, the ecolodge aims to promote sustainable tourism and contribute positively to the local community and the region.
Located in one of the most remote areas of Northern Vietnam, we respect the destinations we work in, focus cultural appreciation, sustainability and giving back to the local community.
Topas Ecolodge’s Operations – A Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainable human development
Sustainability is at the heart of Topas Ecolodge’s operations, which is a showcase of sustainable tourism in a remote area. We employ more than 100 people, almost exclusively from local villages with 90% of staffs coming from neighboring villages of the Hmong, Dao, Giay and Tay people. Our people are given opportunities to progress and complete further training of English and hospitality industry.
A shining example is Mrs. Pham, a Red Dao woman who began her journey selling crafts near the lodge’s entrance, then came in as a dishwasher and has since progressed to waitress and has earned the title of “Wine waitress of the month” at Stilt House Restaurant.
Renowned for her warm smiles, Pham connects with guests effortlessly despite limited English proficiency. Day by day, she diligently strives to enhance her language skills by attentively listening to and fulfilling customers’ requests, giving them a seamless dining experience. Pham’s journey is an inspiring example for our local staff, encouraging them to overcome obstacles, enhance their skills continuously, and pursue sustainable dreams.
Effective water management
Topas Ecolodge is well aware of how precious water resource is, especially in a remote area where the demand for water is substantial. Topas Ecolodge has therefore implemented an innovative water management system in rooms and common areas that optimises freshwater consumption. By collecting and treating rainwater for various uses such as irrigation, toilet flushing, and laundry, the lodge has significantly reduced its reliance on local water sources. Additionally, a greywater recycling system treats used water from sinks and showers, making it safe for reuse.
Our twin infinity pools as well as nine villa pools utilise a saltwater treatment system which converts salt into a pure form of chlorine, eliminating the need to use chemicals and preventing the creation of harmful byproducts that come in traditional chlorinated pools.
Waste Management and Sustainable Energy
We strive to minimize waste at an absolute minimum and donate excess food to the local farmers to repurpose as fertiliser. This eco-friendly solution benefits both the Ecolodge and local farmers, allowing them to replace chemical fertilizers with organic alternatives, reducing the risk of water supply or soil contamination.
The other way we manage to recycle as much of our waste as possible is using the glass crushing machine. It crushes glass bottles into a fine powder which can later be used for concrete in construction and maintenance. See the whole process here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJbyXQ4TxPQ
Solar panels are also installed on our hilltop to generate electricity for lighting along the trails surrounding the lodge.
Cultural Respect
Located in the center of our lodge, Stilt House Restaurant was constructed from two traditional Tay stilt houses moved piece by piece from the original site and later reassembled at the lodge. It boasts a romantic terrace and wrap-around deck overlooking the property, loved by those who prefer morning teas and coffees while louging in the fresh air and sunshine.
Each of our 50 stylish bungalows is made from local white granite carved out from the Hoang Lien Mountains by one of Vietnam’s best stone-cutter teams from Ninh Binh. Within the bungalows, you will find the finest local materials that have been used to furnish the cool minimalist interior in a distinctly Scandinavian aesthetic.
In our Welcome House, guests will also have a glimpse of local craft and traditional sournevir made by local artisans. From the handmade bamboo paper to decorative crafts, etc. guests can take home a piece of Sapa culture. Also, all the benefits from selling such items will go back to the local artisans to support their works.
Our respect for local culture is also reflected through our Food and Beverage offerings. The combination of traditional recipes from our local chefs and fresh ingredients from our organic garden and nearby local markets ensures the authenticity of local flavors, while maintaining the luxury and comfort that Topas Ecolodge is known for. Stilt House Restaurant offers traditional Vietnamese menus, while our hilltop Restaurant 360 provides a creative fusion of Viet – Western cuisine with more international choices for guests.
Supply chain sustainability
The supply chain is a vital aspect of our sustainable practices. Thanks to the favorable weather and location, our organic garden serves as a key source providing us fresh and organic ingredients for our restaurants. We prioritize sourcing from nearby farmers and local markets to ensure the freshest produce and authentic flavors.
With the local insights in mind, we collaborate with Vietnamese partners to provide guests with an authentic taste of Vietnam while adhering to our sustainable concepts and top-tier facilities throughout the lodge.
Guest Offerings – Effort in sustainable tourism
The sustainable practices do not only lie in our daily operation and human management, but it also showcases through our offerings to guests during their stay. Ensuring guests have a comfortable, eco-friendly stay, enjoy authentic taste of Northern Vietnam, understand local culture and people as well as become more involved in our efforts of sustainable tourism are key elements that Topas Ecolodge are working on.
Minimizing plastic use and eco-token initiatives
At Topas Ecolodge, we are committed to reducing single-use plastics. We utilize glass water bottles, eco-bars, and daily refills to minimize plastic waste.
Step into the rustic bungalow of Topas Ecolodge, guests can easily notice our eco-efforts with greenleaf housekeeping. Accordingly, guests will receive eco-tokens if they skip daily housekeeping, since it can help us saving water and energy. In return, guests can use such eco-tokens to order complimentary drinks at our bar. By this, we encourage our in-house guests to join us in a responsible stay and sustainable tourism development.
Complimentary cultural activities
Guests can really blend in the local atmosphere of the lodge through traditional activities and workshops, including Eco-tour, Wine Cooking Workshop, Chung Cake Cooking Workshop, Meo Flute, Tay Dance, etc. The experiences allow guests to hand-in and engage with the unique culture and traditions of Vietnam.
Biking and Trekking tours to neighboring villages
Thanks to its unique location in the remote area of Sapa, Topas Ecolodge is known as a comfortable base for adventurous souls eager to explore the stunning mountain landscapes and witness the virant tapestry of local minority ethnicities. From participating Hmong Textile Workshop to visiting the local villagers and learning how they make writing paper, jewelry and embroidery, guests can really immerse themselves in our unique culture.
Support local community and Charity work
Our commitment to the local community extends beyond our daily operations. From some croissant goodies to spare clothes, shoes or caps, etc., we often find the way to donate to our neighbors as well as create positive impact in the community.
We have two charity streams: carrying out our own projects and also funding/working with NGOs. Because we have our roots in Sapa, this is where we undertake most of our own work and we have a project manager based in Sapa to oversee our charitable work.
In recent years, our focus has been on education. We have now re-built a number of schools in the area, including Nam Than, Nam Lang B School, Nam Cang School’s Boarding House. Other projects we have contributed to or fully funded include bridge construction, and home improvements for those in hardship.
We actively works with our NGO partners in Vietnam such as Newborns Vietnam, Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation and Operational Smile to support them in specific areas of their works.
At Topas Ecolodge, our sustainable practices are not just part of our operations; they are woven into the very fabric of the guest experience. We invite you to join us in our journey towards sustainable tourism, where comfort, culture, and community come together harmoniously.
Green Getaway – Embracing Tranquility in Nature