In the year 1884, as the shadows of French colonialism stretched over Vietnam, Alexander, a French count and military contractor for the French government, found his way to Hanoi. Enthralled by the tranquil and untouched beauty of the region, chose to make Hanoi his abode and erected a castle along Rue de Chanvre (now Hang Gai Street).
On a picturesque day, while strolling around Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square, Alexander collided with a girl. Her demeanor was urgent, yet modest. His assistant informed him that she wished to become his servant to settle her parents' debts. Due to her gentle facade, Alexander agreed to take her in as a servant.
As days unfolded and the count interacted with the maid, he discovered her name was Vân. Her kindness and gentleness gradually captured the count's heart. Together, they lived and built the castle.
On a fateful night when the French had to withdraw from Vietnam, the count wished to take Madam Vân back to France with him. However, overhearing a conversation between Vân and a Viet Cong soldier, Alexander learned that Vân was a spy for the Government of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. Enraged, despite her plea that she was pregnant and her love was genuine, the count decided to leave her behind and returned to France. Vân could only sit, weeping and wailing, sacrificing her love and family for her homeland.
With this poignant story as our inspiration, we arrived here to breathe life back into this castle, transforming it into a hotel and naming it Le Chanvre Hanoi Hotel & Spa. More than just a luxurious boutique hotel, it stands as a living embodiment of history and boundless love.
Mun Dining Story:
In Vietnam, during full moon days, families gathered to cook rice and make cakes. Madam Vân, yearning for her home, was constrained by the laws. Acknowledging her sentiments, Alexander, on every full moon day, personally entered the kitchen to prepare traditional Vietnamese meals or make cakes with her, savoring moonlit nights over tea.
The Black Oak Lounge Story:
Despite his affluence, Alexander led a discreet life. Twice a week, especially on Saturdays, he hosted covert wine parties, inviting influential friends and partners, including politicians, military contractors, architects, princesses, and counts. A special wine cellar was crafted to store premium wines, offering refuge for esteemed guests.
The ambiance exuded warmth and intimacy, predominantly crafted from oak wood, with the black oak bar standing out. Black oak, rare and enduring, symbolized resilience, survival, and prosperity.
Dusk Sky Bar Story:
Beneath the enchanting hues of the sunset, the castle's rooftop transformed into a magical stage. Soft golden lights accentuated the romantic tableau, surrounded by princesses and counts from neighboring regions. Madam Vân, with her graceful beauty, became the focal point, her eyes as captivating as the descending sun.
The celebration unfolded beneath sparkling lanterns, reminiscent of stars in the clear sky, creating a scene of warmth and elegance. Wine droplets glistened in the light, adding a touch of solemnity and romance to every spoken word and gesture.
As the count bowed, inviting her to dance amidst the crowd, the lively music echoed the dance of love. Each step they took on the dance floor inscribed a new chapter in their love story.
The rooftop wasn't merely a space for lavish parties, it transformed into a dreamy realm of love, where the sunset provided the soundtrack for the most beautiful moments in their love story.
Chanvre Spa Story:
Beauty, an essential pursuit for women, held a special place for Madam Vân. To cater to her desires, Alexander established a dedicated spa area for her well-being. Friends were sent to the Himalayas to procure salt stones for her baths. Chanvre Spa also embraced Sothys essential oils, a renowned French brand since 1946, with 100% natural ingredients aimed at rejuvenating and restoring skin health.
