Azerai La Residence reviewed: a stay steeped in Hue’s historic elegance
Indochine grandeur meets modern comfort.
Vietnam’s former imperial capital, Hue, is a city where history lingers in its grand architecture, poetic riverbanks, and compelling cuisine. Though time and war have left their marks, the restoration of the UNESCO-listed Imperial City recaptures its regal past. Across the Perfume River, remnants of another era endure—the tree-lined boulevards and stately villas of Hue’s French Quarter. One such villa, Azerai La Residence, a 1930s Art Deco mansion once home to France’s regional Resident-Superior, has a new life.
While this stay was complimentary, all thoughts and opinions are our own.
Review of Azerai La Residence, Hue
Setting the scene: Art Deco on the Perfume River
A striking example of the streamlined modern style, with clean horizontal lines, curved balconies, and subtle nautical details, this original colonial-era mansion is now the heart of Azerai La Residence.
Expanded in 2005 with two new wings, the property now offers 122 rooms and suites. It spans 2.5 hectares of manicured gardens, embracing its riverfront setting. Unlike many city hotels, the low-rise buildings, open green spaces, and expansive pool lend a resort-like atmosphere—an escape from the urban hum of Hue.
In 2018, the hotel joined Azerai, the boutique brand founded by Adrian Zecha, the visionary behind Aman Resorts. His signature approach—boutique accommodations with a sense of place combining intimacy and style shapes the hotel’s ethos, from its tranquil feel to its attentive yet discreet service.
Rooms: a balance of elegance and comfort
Our spacious Deluxe Room on the west wing’s top (third) floor was a light-filled retreat with a private balcony overlooking the river and hotel grounds. Inside, dark timber floors contrast with soft grey terrazzo tiles, while a low-profile chaise lounge and barrel-style armchair in the separate lounge area add a touch of Art Deco sophistication.
Thoughtful details stand out. The espresso machine and selection of premium Vietnamese coffee and teas elevated our morning rituals. Azerai-branded toiletries, plush robes, and a well-stocked minibar enhanced the sense of comfort.
The house-bottled drinking water also speaks to the property’s overall eco-focus. A plastic-free ethos is evident across the hotel. Solar panels hide on the roof, and the free water refill station adjacent to the resort’s Boutique and business centre is to be applauded.
Dining: Hue’s culinary legacy on the plate
Food in Hue is an experience shaped by the city’s imperial past. Le Parfum, the hotel’s main restaurant, reflects this heritage in both setting and menu. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with inside and al-fresco dining on the garden terrace, design elements—vaulted ceilings, fluted columns, and polished wood floors—evoke an elegant bygone era.
Breakfast includes a broad yet curated selection of Western staples and Vietnamese specialities. There are freshly squeezed juices, tropical fruits, an impressive selection of cold cuts, and bread and pastry offerings that would easily fit into a Parisian boulangerie. For me, the highlight was the bún bò Huế—a rich, spicy beef noodle soup considered the city’s signature dish.
For a deeper dive into Hue’s royal cuisine, the Flavours of Royal Gastronomy menu (pre-booking required) showcases dishes once reserved for emperors. Expect delicacies like crispy baby clam spring rolls, Hue royal rice balls, and a longan sweet soup, each reflecting the city’s reputation as Vietnam’s culinary heartland.
Le Gouverneur Bar is a standout space with its striking green backdrop, terracotta hues, and vintage furnishings. Whether for morning coffee, afternoon tea, a pre-dinner cocktail, or nightcap, it exudes old-world charm and a convivial warmth that invites lingering.
What else?
Hue is a city meant for exploring, and Azerai La Residence offers an ideal starting point. The concierge can arrange guided tours of the Imperial City, royal tombs, pagodas, and more, as they did for me. Try a sunset or dinner cruise on the hotel’s newly launched 55-foot wooden boat, Nam Xuan, for something more exclusive.
After a day of sightseeing, Le Spa provides a welcome retreat. The menu includes treatments inspired by traditional Vietnamese medicine, from herbal remedies to bamboo massages and cupping therapy. My traditional Vietnamese massage with healing Cajeput oil was just the thing after days of exploring. A modern gym and yoga sessions cater to guests seeking wellness beyond the spa.
For those drawn to art and craftsmanship, the hotel’s La Residence Gallery hosts rotating exhibits, while the Boutique showcases a curated selection of locally crafted jewellery, textiles, and objets d’art. Be warned as temptations abound, from elegant linen resort wear to handcrafted souvenirs far removed from the usual tourist fare.
The verdict: who should stay here?
Hue is a city steeped in history and culture. Azerai La Residence’s colonial-era grandeur, river setting, and commitment to refined simplicity make it an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive, relaxed stay. For travellers who appreciate heritage hotels with a story, cultural immersion, and subtle, travel-savvy luxury, Azerai La Residence is an excellent choice in Hue.
Learn more about Azerai La Residence or Book through Booking.com
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