The red building was constructed by the French in Phia Den Hamlet in Nguyen Binh District.
The climate here is a cool 18-25 degrees Celsius all year round.
The villa is located on an isolated hillside, with moss and vines clinging to its tiled roof.
The walls were originally yellow, but gradually turned red and is associated with mysterious stories by local residents, arousing the curiosity of visitors.
The building in the Phia Oac mountain range is managed by the Department of Culture and Information, and set to become a tourist attraction.
During a trip to Cao Bang at the end of last year, Hoang Huy Hieu (pictured), 25, traveled by motorbike to the villa.
In the early 20th century a French family built this villa as a retreat, and it remained abandoned after they returned to their country, Nong Thi Thuy, head of the department, said.
Over time the roof gradually deteriorated and became damaged in some parts, but the walls and overall architecture remain intact, persuading local authorities to turn it into a tourist attraction.
Hieu said the villa's desolate appearance amid the mist and gloom of the forest and the cold air of winter made him "shiver" as he went inside.
But he advised tourists not to go alone since there are no other houses in its vicinity and few passersby, and it could be difficult to find help in case of trouble.
