A vacation in Vietnam might appeal for a whole range of reasons. There’s a stunning culture and an interesting history to explore in this part of the world, as well as a number of compelling entertainment attractions. But it’s the countryside that really makes this country distinctive – and the best way to explore the countryside is by hiking through it.
So, which parts of the country might appeal to would-be trekkers? Let’s look at a few of the best areas to consider when planning your Vietnam trips.
Sapa: Terraced Rice Fields and Ethnic Villages
Photo by Amar Preciado
There are few more recognizably Eastern sights than a cascade of rice terraces. Trek through the Muong Hoa Valley, in Sa Pa, and you’ll be treated to stunning views of this iconic sight, as well as a number of important temples, and gorgeous waterfalls. A number of ethnic groups, including the Hmong, Dao and Tay, make their home among the villages here – and so you’ll find that each one has a distinctive character. The differences make a trip through this part of the country fascinating, as well as inspiring.
Ha Giang: The Sky Path and Remote Hill Tribes
Photo by Precious Memories Vietnam
Ha Giang is a border province, found in the north of the country. It’s characterized by a series of soaring limestone peaks, and gorgeous, deep valleys – which can be surveyed from a hiking route that runs along the top, called the Ha Giang Skypath. Walk this path, and you’ll be treated to a succession of stunning vistas, as well as remote villages where you’ll enjoy authentic encounters with some of the country’s more obscure ethnic groups.
Pu Luong Nature Reserve: Limestone Landscapes and Cultural Immersion
Pu Luong is also characterized by limestone mountains, green rainforest and rice terraces – but here, there’s a distinctly Thai culture, thanks to the presence of ethnic Thai villages and hamlets. There are a number of iconic stilt houses in the area, which have been built to resist flooding, and to protect residents from the threats found on the forest floor!
Cat Ba National Park: Coastal Trails and Biodiversity
Vietnam is home to some of the world’s most fascinating coastal ecosystems. Hike through the Cat Ba National Park, on the island of the same name, just off the east coast of Haiphong, and you’ll find a number of distinctive species. Trek through this part of the country, and you’ll see a rich diversity of life – including animals, and local fishing communities, too.
TheHotelTrotter.com is curated by greek journalist and fanatic hotel lover Eleni Stasinopoulou. With the eye of a fashion and lifestyle editor, Eleni hopes to inspire all connoisseurs of traveling, focusing on stylish hotel moments around the globe.
