3 Incredible Unknown Spots in Northern Vietnam

Vietnam is a huge country with a coastline exceeding 3,000km. The country is home to some of the busiest cities in the world as well as some of the most serene and picturesque countryside. 

Northern Vietnam is home to the capital city, Hanoi. Here you will find a population of 7.6 million people. Even a few days here can feel overwhelming with the thick air generated by the millions of motorbikes whizzing around the city centre. 

Thankfully, you can escape the madness of Hanoi is just a few short hours. Most tourists like to head to the UNESCO world heritage site Ha Long Bay, the beautiful mountain landscapes of Sapa in the North or the stunning caves of Phong Nha to the South. 

However, there are even more magical places that are yet to be fully explored by tourists. Here are 3 unconventional but simply stunning Nothern Vietnam destinations.

Pù Luông Nature Reserve

Image by Ngo Tuan Anh from Pixabay

Just 5 hours south of Hanoi accessible by bus or motorbike, you will find the simply gorgeous Pù Luông Nature Reserve. This area is hidden up into the mountains and during Summer is a paradise made up of small Vietnamese towns and ultra-green paddy fields.

Travellers can stay at some of the small guest houses situated inside the nature reserve, some of which offer 360-degree views over the landscape. Pù Luông Nature Reserve is truly a remarkable place that feels like you are stepping back in time as you pass through the small farming communities that thrive on the mountain.

Ba Be Lake

Image from Pilip on Wikimedia Commons 

So many travellers drive straight past this stunning destination in a rush North to see the mountains of Sapa or Ha Giang. This is a huge mistake. Ba Be lake is much like what you would expect if you visited the garden of Eden. It is a unique slice of untouched natural beauty.

Here, there is only a handful of places to stay and restaurants for tourists. The valley is peaceful and the roads offer you the opportunity to explore the entire areas by motorcycle which is once in a lifetime experience as you take in the epic landscapes of this area. 

Those travelling to Ba Be can choose to camp too, but you should be well prepared with all the necessary equipment from your tent to an everstryke match. You won’t be able to buy any equipment here. Go prepared.

Mai Châu District

Image from Jos Dielis on Wikimedia Commons 

Just one hour away from the Pù Luông Nature Reserve discussed above, Mai Châu is a small village nestled within the valley of surrounding green mountains. Here you will find a mix of traditional Vietnamese communities and tourist areas lined with guesthouses and markets selling foods and trinkets.

Mai Châu is a slice of countryside paradise that has yet to be fully explored by tourists heading to Vietnam. One place worth your consideration for staying in the Eco Lodge that sits atop a green hill with beautiful individual chalets and an on-site restaurant serving traditional Vietnamese and French food.

Mai Châu has options to take beautiful bike rides through the country lanes of rural Vietnam, kayaking down the tranquil rivers and even rock climbing. If your not the adventurous type, just sit back and enjoy the peace.

Lan Ha Bay

Obviously, everybody knows Halong Bay is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vietnam. But have you heard of Lan Ha Bay – a hidden, charming beauty located just to the south of its “celebrity” neighbor? Home to the majestic Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay falls mostly under the management of Cat Ba National Park and gives ample opportunities to travelers who love snorkeling, diving, and swimming. It is also a wonderful destination for trekking or rock climbing. Jumping off a cliff once in a lifetime on your bucket list? Lan Ha Bay can certainly help your wish come true! In some designated places at the end of your trek, you can indeed jump off a cliff face into the bay’s emerald waters!

Cruising is another way to discover Lan Ha Bay in a fancy style, to get a better grasp of what Mother Nature offers in this stunning place. Why not treat yourself to a good vacation on an adventure-ready luxury cruise with a high-quality facilities and interesting onboard activities?