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A lush valley just two hours from Hanoi
Located about 130km from Hanoi, Yen Thinh Valley, around 18km from the former center of Huu Lung town in Lang Son province, has become a favorite among travel enthusiasts thanks to its fresh air and year-round greenery.
Surrounded by hills, mountains and a network of caves, the valley features diverse terrain including lakes, streams and grasslands. Many visitors liken Yen Thinh to a “mini Mongolia” for its endless green pastures and peaceful setting, dotted with tents from families and groups camping in the open.
Here, visitors can not only enjoy the scenery but also take part in outdoor activities such as camping, barbecuing, boating, kite flying, football, hiking, swimming in streams or fishing.
The area is home to ethnic communities including Kinh, Tay, Nung and Dao, giving visitors the chance to join campfire gatherings, cultural exchanges and sample local specialties such as purple sticky rice cake, braised pork, herbal cakes, ash cakes and grilled fermented pork.
Compared to popular northern destinations like Sa Pa, Moc Chau or Mai Chau, Huu Lien and Huu Lung remain relatively untouched and less crowded.
For those planning a trip to Yen Thinh Valley and nearby attractions such as Bac Mo dam or the “phu the” tree during the holiday, early accommodation booking is recommended.
A typical two-day, one-night trip costs around VND1.2-2.5 million (US$49-102) per person.
Visitors enjoy camping in Yen Thinh Valley. Photo: Hung Vi
A two-day, one-night trip typically costs between VND1.2 million and VND2.5 million per person. Photo: Nguyen Hong Thu Trang
A tranquil village 250km from Hanoi
About 250km from Hanoi, Ban Luoc (Luoc Village) in Na Hang commune, Tuyen Quang province, attracts visitors with its untouched beauty, cool climate and peaceful atmosphere.
Nestled in a wide valley and surrounded by high mountains, the village offers a sense of isolation and calm.
Tourism here is developed in a simple, authentic way, preserving traditional rural values. Visitors can stroll around the village, watch locals farming, growing vegetables and raising livestock, or join homestay hosts in picking vegetables, harvesting strawberries and cooking over wood fires.
Local cuisine includes forest vegetables and free-range chicken, prepared simply to retain natural flavors. One standout dish is stir-fried “rau thoi” with eggs - initially off-putting in name and smell, but surprisingly rich and nutty in taste.
Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as Pac Ta Temple by the lake, Thuong Lam with its scenic limestone mountains and quiet villages, or Khuoi Nhi waterfall with cool, clear water perfect for a refreshing swim.
Luoc Village impresses visitors with its untouched natural beauty. Photo: Hai Dang Hay Di
A green island around 300km from Hanoi
Cai Chien Island in Quang Ninh province lies less than four hours by car from Hanoi, followed by a 15-minute canoe ride or 45-minute ferry from Ghenh Vo pier.
Though less well-known than Quan Lan or Co To, it offers an ideal retreat for those seeking a peaceful island lifestyle, fresh seafood and reasonable prices.
The island features long stretches of fine white sand bordered by lush casuarina trees. Its large area of primary forest is home to various species of birds and wildlife. The best time to visit is from April to July, when the weather is clear with minimal rain.
Rocky coastal areas provide habitats for diverse seafood such as snails and shellfish. The island is also known for its distinctive “bearded chicken”, named after the tuft of feathers growing beneath its beak.
Local residents, traditionally fishermen, are known for their friendliness and hospitality.
For larger groups, private canoes can be arranged at around VND3 million (US$122) for a round trip accommodating about 20 people. Smaller groups or individuals can share rides, costing between VND100,000 and VND200,000 (US$4-8) per person per trip.
The sea at Cai Chien Island appears crystal clear on summer days. Photo: Nguyen Thanh Tuyen
Cai Chien Island is also a perfect place to watch sunrise and sunset. Photo: Nguyen Thanh Tuyen
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