The Golden Loop: A Memorable Motorbike Adventure from Hoi An to Hue
The Golden Loop: A Memorable Motorbike Adventure from Hoi An to Hue
Embark on an unforgettable motorbike adventure along the Golden Loop, starting from Hoi An and passing through Prao to Hue. Discover the stunning landscapes of Vietnam while enjoying the thrill of the Hai Van Pass. Read about our family's experience, itinerary, and tips for a successful trip.

QUICK DETAILS:

  • Route: Hoi An→Prao→Hue→Hai Van Pass→Da Nang→Hoi An

  • Distance: 420km (main route)

  • Duration: 3 days 2 nights

  • Scenery: mountains, jungle, rivers, valleys, beaches, waterfalls, fishing villages

  • Attractions: spectacular views, freshwater bathing, empty beaches, great riding, seafood, historical sites, swimming

  • Road Conditions: mostly good, smooth, paved roads, generally light traffic

  • Best Time: April-September

  • Cost: 150 - 200 usd

  • Full map:


SECTIONS:

  • Section 1: Hoi An→ Dong Giang - Prao | 105km

  • Section 2: Prao→A Luoi→Hue | 165km

  • Section 3: Hue→Hai Van Pass→Da Nang→Hoi An | 150km

The Golden Loop: A Thrilling Motorbike Journey through Vietnam

Hoi An > Prao > Hue > Hoi An

Discover the exhilarating Golden Loop, a self-guided motorbike tour that takes you through the picturesque landscapes of Vietnam. Follow our family's journey from Hoi An to Prao, then Hue, and back to Hoi An via the iconic Hai Van Pass. Get inspired and plan your own adventure along this scenic route.

Hello everyone, I am a Tracer from Trace Travel Vietnam. Recently, I completed a self-guided motorbike tour with my family from Quang Nam to Thua Thien Hue and back to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass. I am writing about this experience in the hope that it can help you plan and prepare for a similar trip.

This was a journey that I had been dreaming of for a long time, but I had to wait until my child was a bit older and more resilient. I have seen many families taking their 1 or 2-year-old kids on motorbike adventures across Vietnam, but I wanted to ensure that my whole family could have a better experience. So, I decided to wait until my child turned 4 years old before embarking on this trip.

Initially, I had concerns and worries, but after this journey, I was pleasantly surprised to see that the little ones were actually stronger than I had imagined. When they got tired, they would take a nap on the motorbike, and when we reached our stopping point, they would wake up singing and happily engage in activities like picking flowers and chasing butterflies. Therefore, for any families who are concerned about the physical well-being of their children, don't hesitate. The resilience of these little ones always exceeds our imagination.

Section 1: Hoi An > Dong Giang (Prao)

This is a pre-generated map created by Trace Travel to help you navigate more easily. Click on "Other Options" on the map to open Google Map App. In your Google Maps app if your starting location is different from where you are currently standing. Replace your starting point with "Your Location" and tap on start.

Starting from Hoi An, we rented a motorbike from Trace Travel Vietnam (Here, you can inquire further about the itinerary and choose a suitable bike... The young, enthusiastic, and experienced staff here also provide helpful information for traveling in Central Vietnam).

The rental cost for this trip ranges from 150k to 250k VND per day (for scooters or manual bikes). The total rental period will be 3 days.

Opting for an Automatic scooter would be advantageous if you need a spacious storage compartment for your belongings. Alternatively, you can save on fuel by renting a Semi-Automatic bike, which offers more flexibility and is suitable for rugged mountainous roads. Additionally, Trace Travel also offers mountain motorbikes, Big Scooters, and adventure bikes for those seeking unique experiences. (I will review the Offroad Tracks in future articles).

Trace Travel also provides bikes with rear racks and straps. Furthermore, the bikes are equipped with phone holders, making it convenient for you to track your location.

A small corner of Trace Travel Vietnam Office, with a large map on the wall showcasing the Golden Loop route. The office is friendly, professional, and provides plenty of useful information for your journey.
A small corner of Trace Travel Vietnam Office, with a large map on the wall showcasing the Golden Loop route. The office is friendly, professional, and provides plenty of useful information for your journey.
I chose the CBX500, which is a relatively large and heavy bike. The advantage of this powerful machine is that it easily conquers mountainous terrain. And the whole family have boxes... If you are traveling with couples or solo,  110cc- 125cc scooter or semi-automatic scooter still handle it very well.  (Little SĂąu still looks sleepy in the photo :))
I chose the CBX500, which is a relatively large and heavy bike. The advantage of this powerful machine is that it easily conquers mountainous terrain. And the whole family have boxes... If you are traveling with couples or solo, 110cc- 125cc scooter or semi-automatic scooter still handle it very well. (Little SĂąu still looks sleepy in the photo :))
IMG 3062

Please note that in hot weather, it's best to start your journey as early as possible to avoid traveling through the lowlands during midday. The temperature in the lowlands differs significantly from the mountainous regions. If you depart from the lowlands before 7:30 am, you will reach the highlands around 10-11 am. During that time, the weather in the mountainous areas is relatively cool and pleasant. If you wish to visit the My Son Sanctuary, you will need to start even earlier (around 5-6 am) as it takes about an hour to travel from Hoi An to My Son, and then an additional 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the site thoroughly. However, it is a worthwhile experience, and I recommend visiting this sacred place.

After leaving Trace Travel Vietnam, my family headed straight to the gas station to fill up the tank before setting off. We had breakfast at Bo Ne Ty restaurant and grabbed a coffee to go, which helped us stay alert in the morning.

Leaving Hoi An via Hung Vuong Street, we headed west, passing through Vinh Dien town in Dien Ban District, towards the high mountain ranges, along the Thu Bon River. We crossed through rice fields, riverside fishing villages, and urban areas. The scenery along this route may not be particularly distinctive, but during the rice season, you'll be able to admire vast stretches of rice fields. As we approached the mountains, the population became sparser. Since our priority was to enjoy the mountain scenery, we didn't make many stops along this stretch. After about an hour, we took a break to rest and rejuvenate our bodies. Our first resting stop we chose was Net Xua Cafe

Right across from the cafe, there is a gas station and an ATM, which is very convenient if you need to withdraw money or refuel.

Net Xua Cafe is the highest-rated cafe in the Dai Loc area. The cafe offers a spacious and clean environment, and the drinks are truly of high quality and affordable (for example, a glass of Passion Fruit Juice costs only 20,000 VND, and it feels like there's enough passion fruit pulp to make two glasses of juice compared to ordering at a regular café). Inside the café, there are preserved items from the war era and the period of rationing, evoking nostalgic memories of the past. The owners of the café are extremely enthusiastic and kind; before leaving, the owner even gifted me a refreshing bottle of iced tea!

IMG 2675
IMG 2674
It's impressive that a glass of Passion Fruit Juice at this coffee shop is generous enough to make another glass. It's a testament to the quality of their drinks.
It's impressive that a glass of Passion Fruit Juice at this coffee shop is generous enough to make another glass. It's a testament to the quality of their drinks.
The owner gave us a cold botle of ice tea before we go. Their exceptional service, rated 5/5, truly adds to the overall experience.
The owner gave us a cold botle of ice tea before we go. Their exceptional service, rated 5/5, truly adds to the overall experience.

Around 9:30 AM, my family continued our journey. Initially, my little girl was a bit tired. However, after resting, she became more energetic and alert, so we confidently resumed our travel. We planned to make a stop after approximately one hour of driving.

Right after leaving the café, we crossed Ha Nha Bridge and headed towards the mountains. The scenery started to change. The population became sparser, and there were more hills and trees. The road still had some sunlight, but it began to feel cooler. From Ha Nha Bridge, if you look straight ahead, you'll see a mountain in front of you. That's Am Thong Peak, a fascinating place in Dai Loc District. I'll share the journey to the peak with you later. For now, after crossing the bridge, we continued along the right side of the Vu Gia River, heading west towards the forests and hills of the Truong Son mountain range.

We continued for another 20 kilometers and then turned right over a bridge. From here, we set foot on the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail. The road gradually became steeper, and the pristine forests grew denser. The houses became sparser along the way. You would gradually feel immersed in the fresh and pure air of the mountains and dense forests.

After about a 20-minute climb, which coincided with the midday hour, and after more than an hour of travel, we reached Bung River Bridge. From the bridge, you could catch a glimpse of the impressive Bung River Hydroelectric Dam. We stopped here to take photos of the dam and rest for a while before continuing. It was then that I discovered that moving a bit further up, there was a small stream on the right side, behind the hill. Resting there would be more suitable, with the cool flowing water of the stream and the abundant shade of the lush trees.

From the bridge, you can admire the view of the hydroelectric dam. Imagine how magnificent the scene would be if the dam were to release a flood.
From the bridge, you can admire the view of the hydroelectric dam. Imagine how magnificent the scene would be if the dam were to release a flood.
Bung River
Bung River
The baby gets off the bike and starts playing with sticks and trees, and in no time, their energy is fully recharged ^_^.
The baby gets off the bike and starts playing with sticks and trees, and in no time, their energy is fully recharged ^_^.
The whole family took the opportunity to capture a check-in photo, but the baby was not cooperative. Let's just squeeze her into the corner of the picture @@.
The whole family took the opportunity to capture a check-in photo, but the baby was not cooperative. Let's just squeeze her into the corner of the picture @@.

Continuing our journey, the higher we ascend, the cooler and more refreshing the temperature becomes. Moreover, as we took a step forward, we found ourselves immersed in a lush forest, with trees lining the road... the air was cool and incredibly pure... This stretch of road offers breathtaking scenery that makes me want to stop at every spot to capture photos and enjoy moments of relaxation... If you desire, I urge you to pause and indulge in the beauty.

Upon exiting the forest, we will reach a three-way intersection. Taking the right turn will lead you onto a small road (This route can also serve as a return path to Da Nang or Hoi An, passing through mountainous ethnic villages) traversing through mountains and forests to the eco-tourism destination known as Dong Giang Sky Gate, which is approximately 7km away.

By the time we arrive there, an hour would have passed, and it would be around 11:30 am. Our family has decided to halt and rest at Dong Giang Sky Villa, located only a few dozen meters from the intersection on National Highway 14.

IMG 2685
IMG 2684
The Sky Villa space and accommodation area... I didn't take many photos since I wasn't staying there. However, the outdoor space was incredibly spacious, offering mountain views and cool breezes. It was nestled between the mountains and the forest.
The Sky Villa space and accommodation area... I didn't take many photos since I wasn't staying there. However, the outdoor space was incredibly spacious, offering mountain views and cool breezes. It was nestled between the mountains and the forest.

Dong Giang Sky Villa is a villa complex with Bungalows located right on Ho Chi Minh Trail. It is an ideal place to relax and unwind. We planned to stay here for one night instead of Prao, but unfortunately, all the Bungalows were fully booked. It's a pity... I think if you manage to secure a reservation, staying here would be a great choice. The villa's location is very convenient, right on the road, amidst the mountains and forests, with fresh air... There are many places to explore and visit nearby. The villa has an open and spacious design, close to nature. In the evening, they offer BBQ services and interesting entertainment programs. The rooms are clean and well-equipped.

Although we couldn't book a room, we still wanted to stop by and have lunch here. Luckily, the chef, despite being busy, prepared a delicious lunch for us and our family. After we finished eating, they even invited us to rest inside the house to escape the hot midday sun. At 1:30 pm, they would take us to enjoy a waterfall bath and explore the surrounding mountains and forests before continuing our journey to Prao.

Lunch for the whole family... It cost a total of 200k, and it was complete and delicious!
Lunch for the whole family... It cost a total of 200k, and it was complete and delicious!
Moving a lot and being hungry, the child eats much better than usual. They can finish two bowls of rice easily 😄
Moving a lot and being hungry, the child eats much better than usual. They can finish two bowls of rice easily 😄

From Dong Giang Sky Villa to Prao, there is only a 20km distance, so my family decided to spend more time in this area. We plan to check in at the hotel in Prao at 4 pm. After having lunch and resting, we were kindly guided by a staff member at the villa to a nearby beautiful waterfall for swimming. Our child is enjoying playing in the water and exploring the rocks for hours without getting bored...

The entrance to the waterfall is only 50m away from the highway, making it extremely convenient and nearby. As soon as you step beyond the forest gate, you'll be greeted by a dense, vibrant greenery.
The entrance to the waterfall is only 50m away from the highway, making it extremely convenient and nearby. As soon as you step beyond the forest gate, you'll be greeted by a dense, vibrant greenery.
Test mĂ u-9
This is the chef of Dong Giang Sky Villa, who guided us to the waterfall. Sorry for the spooky-looking photo :))
This is the chef of Dong Giang Sky Villa, who guided us to the waterfall. Sorry for the spooky-looking photo :))
Our child quickly made a ''new friend''
Our child quickly made a ''new friend''

We left the waterfall around 3 pm and headed back towards Prao. We leisurely passed through the breathtaking roads, crossed rivers, streams, and pristine forests. After about 30-40 minutes, the town of Prao started to appear. This mountain town may be small, but it is well-maintained, with wide and clean roads. The population is dense, with many shops and services along the streets.

On our first night, we stayed at Chung Thuy Hotel, located at the end of the town, near A Vuong 2 Bridge. I must say this hotel is very clean and well-equipped. There's nothing to complain about for 250k per night, with two spacious beds, a TV, air conditioning, and hot water. We were very satisfied with this hotel and its quality of service, which was friendly and accommodating.

After checking in, we all took some time to freshen up, organize our belongings, and take advantage of the sunset. We got back in the car and searched for a spot in the town to enjoy the sunset. After driving around, we found a suitable location, is the Statue facing the Dong Giang District People's Committee. From there, the sunset was partially blocked by the committee building, but the evening sun still shone through, illuminating the tranquil and peaceful small town.

Test mĂ u-24
Test mĂ u-23
IMG 2733

Before the sunset, our family made plans to have dinner. Despite its small size, the town of Prao still offers a variety of eateries, including restaurants, food stalls, cafes, and milk tea shops. Tonight, our family decided to try the "bĂĄnh xĂšo" (Vietnamese savory pancake) at Khanh Linh restaurant.

The restaurant has a small, lovely, and clean space. The main dishes served are rustic pancakes, duck meat, and duck porridge. Having a can of cold beer to accompany the banh xeo and duck porridge is a delightful way to conclude a long and exhausting day of driving. The food prices in the mountains are very affordable. Our family enjoyed banh xeo, beer, and duck porridge, all for only 80k. Despite being accompanied by a baby, the restaurant has a TV hanging on the wall, playing children's programs... This allows parents to have some free time, and the baby also behaves more obediently. 😊

IMG 2742
IMG 2743

So ended day 1 of the GOLDEN LOOP journey. We moved back to the hotel, slept early to prepare for the exciting journey tomorrow.

Section 2: Prao > A Luoi > Hue city

A new day in the mountains always starts off cool and pleasant....Last night, our entire family had a great night's sleep. It was only 6 am, but everyone woke up feeling energized and alert, likely because we went to bed early before 10 pm. We didn't rush in the morning, taking our time to pack our belongings, tidy up the room, and check out. Afterwards, we headed to the town center to find a breakfast spot and enjoy some coffee. This area offers plenty of breakfast options, and we decided to try the bone broth vermicelli at a roadside eatery, which was quite good. The prices were very affordable, with a bowl of vermicelli costing only 15k-20k. Once we finished our meal, we visited Prao Coffee. The coffee quality was decent, and the prices were very reasonable. For just 15k, we could enjoy a cup of machine-brewed milk coffee. We ordered a takeaway coffee and began our journey out of town.

Continuing along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, QL14... The entire stretch of road runs alongside a long river for about 15km before reaching A Vuong I Bridge. On the right side is the river, while on the left side are mountains and forests. Since it was our first time traveling on this route, I believe we might have missed out on some beautiful spots. The river on the right side of the road appeared shallow with many stones. It seemed like a wide and beautiful stream with clean water. I suggest that in that area, you should consider stopping, parking by the roadside, and going down to the riverbank to relax and, if desired, even take a swim.

The scenery of lush, dense green forests is truly mesmerizing
The scenery of lush, dense green forests is truly mesmerizing

After crossing A Vuong I Bridge, continue along National Highway 14 and cross Ta Lang Bridge until you reach the Tay Giang intersection. From there, continue for another kilometer until you see a right turn leading to the Ta Lang community ecotourism village. It's a pity that we missed this area on our recent trip. The village is home to the CÆĄ Tu ethnic group and has preserved many aspects of the local indigenous culture. If you have the opportunity to visit this region, I highly recommend making a stop and exploring the village. There are also accommodations available for tourists, providing an opportunity to experience and engage in cultural exchange with the CÆĄ Tu people through traditional games, dances, and ethnic musical instruments.

The Ta Lang Ecotourism Area - Homeland of the Co Tu People (google map photo)
The Ta Lang Ecotourism Area - Homeland of the Co Tu People (google map photo)

Leaving the village, continue your journey along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, following the river, and you will notice that the houses become sparser. From here onwards, please take note that you will encounter approximately 60 kilometers of mountainous roads, traversing through pristine forests, which means you will rarely come across people. There won't be any local houses, and mobile phone signals may be intermittent. It may sound a bit daunting, but don't worry. Make sure you have a full tank of gas, check your tires, and ensure that everything is in order. Despite the wilderness, occasionally you may still encounter fellow travelers, forest-goers, or forest rangers passing through this area. If you encounter any issues, you will receive timely assistance from them. Furthermore, if you have rented a vehicle from Trace Travel, don't hesitate to contact them in case of any problems. They will do their utmost to resolve any issues you may encounter.

The Ho Chi Minh Trail, with its sparse traffic, may seem deserted, but it is actually very safe
The Ho Chi Minh Trail, with its sparse traffic, may seem deserted, but it is actually very safe

As you venture deeper, the scenery becomes increasingly unique. Since this route passes through pristine forests, you will encounter a different landscape compared to the flatlands. Trees and vegetation will be less familiar to you.

Our family will often stop along the way to take photos and admire the beauty of the mountainous forests
Our family will often stop along the way to take photos and admire the beauty of the mountainous forests
Test mĂ u-30

This stretch of the journey will also take you up to higher mountains, where you can look down upon the dense, sprawling forests stretching beyond the limits of your sight. Standing there, you can't help but feel a sense of insignificance as a human being. The sound of birds singing and the gentle rustling of leaves in the wind evokes indescribable emotions. It's a tranquil, soothing experience, tinged with a hint of melancholy and regret knowing that you will eventually have to move on and leave this serene setting behind.

Test mĂ u-31

Far beyond those dense forests lies the habitat of the last remaining individuals of the ''Pseudoryx nghetinhensis'' in Vietnam. It is our hope that this forest will remain lush and thriving, expanding further each day, providing sustainable resources to nurture the biodiversity within and sustain the lives of the local communities who coexist with these green forests.

Test mĂ u-20

While halfway through my journey, I came across a bridge that spanned the A Pat stream, so I decided to stop and rest by the stream. The scenery amidst the mountainous forest was peaceful, with no one passing by. Just nearby was the A Pat forest ranger station, where I could hear dogs barking from inside, but there was no one in sight. It's possible that the forest rangers were out on duty. Since this forest area is quite isolated, it's a good point to remember in case of unexpected incidents or sudden storms. You can find shelter or seek assistance here. If not, you can continue traveling for another kilometer to reach the HÆ°ÆĄng NguyĂȘn Border Guard Station, where there will also be people present to help.

A Pat stream amidst the green forest...
A Pat stream amidst the green forest...
My daughter loves streams. How I wish we could be as carefree as she is, finding joy in the simplest of things... picking up leaves and stones with a sense of delight.
My daughter loves streams. How I wish we could be as carefree as she is, finding joy in the simplest of things... picking up leaves and stones with a sense of delight.
Test mĂ u-39

After passing through two mountain tunnels, we began to see more inhabited areas, indicating that we had completed the 60km journey through the untouched wilderness without any human settlements. On the far left, there were distant valleys, villages, and rice fields belonging to the local community.

Continuing along Highway 14, at the three-way intersection, make a right turn. From here, it's a straight road for approximately 20km until you reach the Chợ Bốt Đỏ junction. Turning right at this intersection will take you to Huáșż. However, if you wish to stop for lunch, continue straight to find a restaurant. Before reaching the intersection, you'll come across a simple eatery called O GĂĄi. If you're in a hurry, you can dine there. If you have more time (before 11 am), you can continue straight to find better dining options. Notably, there is a restaurant called DĂąn Tộc 79, operated by a couple from the A Lưới ethnic community. They serve delicious and unique traditional dishes.

After having lunch, we took a short rest and hit the road again, heading back in the opposite direction towards Chợ Bốt Đỏ and turning left onto Highway 49. This road descends continuously and has many small sections under repair, as well as heavy truck traffic, so we should go more carefully and slowly.

Due to the hot and scorching weather, we were able to travel for about 30 minutes before stopping at Parle stream for a midday rest. The weather was quite hot at that time, but fortunately, there were several wooden stalls built by the local community right next to the stream, providing a cool and shaded area under the trees. We took advantage of this and closed our eyes for about 15 minutes, enjoying the refreshing shade.

My daughter is usually not very cooperative when it comes to taking photos, but it was amusing to see her posing so professionally at some check-in points... ^_^
My daughter is usually not very cooperative when it comes to taking photos, but it was amusing to see her posing so professionally at some check-in points... ^_^
#goldenloop
#goldenloop
My wife and I are very sleepy, but our baby is wide awake as can be. In this situation, her mother had to bribe her with a phone so that I could get some rest for a little while. ^_^
My wife and I are very sleepy, but our baby is wide awake as can be. In this situation, her mother had to bribe her with a phone so that I could get some rest for a little while. ^_^

After feeling less tired, my family continued our journey along highway 49 towards Hue. The weather transition from the highlands to the plains made the heat feel increasingly intense and oppressive... If you happen to travel during cooler weather, before reaching the city center of Hue, this highway passes by several royal tombs of Vietnamese kings, such as the Minh Mang Tomb and the Khai Dinh Tomb. Since the route is quite convenient, I recommend visiting some of these tombs, especially exploring Thuy Tien Lake, the abandoned water park area... Here, the long-abandoned park has a mysterious charm that captivates many foreign tourists to come and visit.

The eerie beauty of Thuy Tien Water Park in Hue at twilight - Photo by Shutter Stock.
The eerie beauty of Thuy Tien Water Park in Hue at twilight - Photo by Shutter Stock.

Around 4 PM, my family arrived at Candy Inn Hotel, located right in the city center of Hue. We chose this place because it's just a hundred meters away from the pedestrian street, and the rooms are clean, with enthusiastic owners.

After checking in, freshening up, and resting, it was already past 5 PM. We decided to drive to the wooden bridge to catch the sunset. The wooden bridge stretches along the Huong river and was built in 2018, measuring 400 meters in length. Initially, when we heard the name "Lim Wooden Bridge," we thought it was just a name, but the truth is that the bridge is actually made of Lim wood. It's a beautiful and sturdy bridge, an ideal spot to admire the sunset over the Huong river. We noticed many people there, especially young people gathering to take photos and check-in.

My wife and child and I were admiring the sunset by the Huong river. It was truly beautiful and peaceful
My wife and child and I were admiring the sunset by the Huong river. It was truly beautiful and peaceful
If you have some time to spare in Hue, riding a duck paddle boat on the Huong River or trying stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) can be a very exciting experience
If you have some time to spare in Hue, riding a duck paddle boat on the Huong River or trying stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) can be a very exciting experience
Test mĂ u-56
I picked a ''bĂ ng'' fruit for her to eat, but her face didn't look quite right :)))
I picked a ''bĂ ng'' fruit for her to eat, but her face didn't look quite right :)))

After crossing the bridge, we turned right onto Pham Hong Thai Street in search of a place to have dinner. Our family decided to try the famous "bĂĄnh canh cua rời" (Vietnamese thick noodle soup cooked with sea crab) right on this street. We chose ''bĂĄnh canh cua Huong", and the flavor was quite good. However, if you order the special version, be aware that they will serve an extremely large piece of pork knuckle. It felt like the main focus was on the pork knuckle rather than the crab soup. Next time, we will try the restaurant next door called ''bĂĄnh canh cua rời Mệ Nga'' because it has received good reviews. After finishing our meal, our family continued walking back to the hotel to prepare for an evening stroll at the pedestrian street. On the way back, little SĂąu wanted to have some candy, but we couldn't find a single convenience store. There was no sign of a minimart or winmart anywhere... It wasn't until we were near our hotel that we finally found a small grocery store.

Around 8 PM, our family strolled through the pedestrian street located just behind the hotel. Since it was a Monday, the street was relatively empty, although the shops and eateries were still open. My impression of the pedestrian street in Hue was that it had some similarities to Hanoi's Ta Hien beer street and Saigon's Bui Vien walking street. However, the pedestrian street in Hue felt more spacious and larger in scale. The streets are clean and spacious, and the establishments are well-maintained and offer a variety of options such as bars, pubs, clubs, beer clubs, cafes, restaurants, and clothing stores.

Secondhand hip-hop and skate clothing are also available
Secondhand hip-hop and skate clothing are also available
Test mĂ u-58

At night, the bars are decorated in an eye-catching manner

My family stopped by 912 Factory Beer Club and invited some friends to join us for a drink. I found that the venue had an open space and was located at a bustling intersection. The staff was attentive, and the food was delicious and plentiful.

Test mĂ u-59
Test mĂ u-61
This is
This is "Nháș­u" in Vietnamese. Not the food, I mean the activites when Vietnamese going out, eating and drinking together... 1 2 3 DzĂŽ! Foods in Huáșż is so Delicious!
This called
This called "Hell Chicken", Crunchy and Spicy!

As everyone was getting tired by around 10 PM, we all walked back to the hotel, bringing an end to a long day.

My wife got a special massage from little Sñu 😂
My wife got a special massage from little Sñu 😂

Section 3: Hue > Hai Van pass > Hoi An

On the last day of our long journey of approximately 150km, only 20km of Hai Van Pass, the rest of the route followed the coastal road and Highway. The total running time was estimated to be around 3 to 4 hours, so our family didn't have to wake up too early in the morning. We woke up around 7:30 AM and checked out hotel after 8 AM.

When in Huáșż, it's a must to try BĂșn BĂČ Hue (Hue-style beef noodle soup). I believe it's like the iconic phở of Hanoi. To find a good place, you can look for a crowded and clean-looking restaurant. After some wandering, we spotted BĂșn BĂČ Huáșż Cáș©m, located right next to the Century Hotel, and it seemed quite bustling. This time, I learned from experience and didn't order a large bowl with a big slice of beef shank. The BĂșn BĂČ was delicious, true to the authentic taste of Hue-style beef noodle soup...

quan-bun-bo-o-cam

After finishing our meal, we immediately thought of grabbing a cup of coffee before hitting the road since we still had plenty of time. Luckily, we found a coffee shop that we absolutely feel impessive "đa:mĂȘ cafe". The coffee quality, prices, and the overall ambiance are truly fantastic. I'd like to take a moment to share my thoughts about this place.

It's truly rare to come across a coffee shop that gives you feel like a snip. It is located right in the walking street, within the premises of Rosaleen Hotel. Perhaps it's because of this prime location that the café's ambiance and the staff's service attitude meet high standards. The decor is spacious, clean, bright, and air-conditioned. An espresso costs only 25k, and the priciest item is the Salted Egg Coffee at just 45k. All the products are meticulously prepared and presented with a professional touch.

IMG 2801.JPG
IMG 2803.JPG
Salted Egg Coffee and Da:me Coffee. Da:me Coffee is the signature drink here. I took a sip of it and didn't notice anything special, but when I ate the accompanying burnt sugar cube, it created a truly unique combination.
Salted Egg Coffee and Da:me Coffee. Da:me Coffee is the signature drink here. I took a sip of it and didn't notice anything special, but when I ate the accompanying burnt sugar cube, it created a truly unique combination.

Leaving the city center of Hue, our family returned to National Highway 49, heading towards the coast via DT01. We ran parallel to HĂ  Trung Lagoon, about 25km later crossing Ha Trung Bridge, leading us towards the seaside road. The route was spacious and relatively safe, with fewer large vehicles.

Along the coastal road, we took a short detour and turned into An Bang cementary. It felt quite weird to visit a cemetery while on a trip. We heard that this cemetery was unique, where people had a trend of comparing the grandeur of their ancestors' tombs. Curiosity got the better of me, so I decided to explore.

After branching off from the main road, it tooks about 3km to reach the cemetery. About 1km before arriving, I noticed some impressively built houses with a royal Hue style. As I got closer, I was increasingly surprised to realize that the distant structures I initially thought were residential houses turned out to be massive and awe-inspiring tombs, surpassing any other graveyards I had visited before.

Test mĂ u-66

It was truly bizarre, a vast area filled with thousands of tombs, each one both grand and beautiful. Architectural influences from the royal dynasty and even incorporating elements of Buddhist and Christian. Our family wandered through the graves, moving from one to another, and the further we went, the more we discovered. Our little baby particularly enjoyed this place beacuse of the scenery resembling Halloween, as she seen on YouTube.

Every grave is like a small temple
Every grave is like a small temple
Like getting lost in a maze of tombs...
Like getting lost in a maze of tombs...
Test mĂ u-70
The reliefs are carved quite delicately and meticulously
The reliefs are carved quite delicately and meticulously
East and west architectural style combined
East and west architectural style combined

After a while, both me and my daughter got lost and took some time to find our way out. This place is truly unique and worth a visit. Upon quick research, we found out that this area used to be quite ordinary, like any other fishing village. However, after years of war, the local residents braved the sea to seek a better life in the United States. Over time, they became wealthier and sent money back to build grand tombs in their homeland, as a way to express gratitude to their ancestors for the blessings that led them to their current prosperity. It gradually became a trend, with each family striving to construct the largest and most beautiful tombs.

By this time, it was nearly 11 a.m, and luckily the weather was cool and shady, without scorching heat. Our plan was to continue our journey along the coast and have lunch at Huy HoĂ ng Restaurant, Lang Co Beach.

Before reaching Lang Co, there was another stop we made, which was Tu Hien Bridge, a bridge spanning across the sea entrance. From the bridge, you can see on one side the vast ocean and on the other side, the expansive Cau Hai Lagoon. On the other side of the bridge is Loc Binh commune. If you turn left and follow the coastal road, you will reach Loc Binh Beach, a pristine and beautiful beach. Due to time constraints, we turned right and continued on QL49B.

Test mĂ u-81

Once we reached the end of QL49B, we arrived at Phuoc Tuong Tunnel. Passing through the tunnel, we reached QL1A, and from there, we drove straight along the national highway towards the border of Lang Co. Along the way, you'll notice on your right the majestic Bach Ma Mountain Range, dividing Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang. This mountain range has also created two distinct regions with different climates. You'll experience this when you cross the Hai Van Pass.

Descending from the Bach Ma Mountain Range, you'll encounter numerous beautiful waterfalls and clear streams. Since we had been there before, we didn't make a stop, but I suggest you visit one of the waterfalls such as Nhi Ho Waterfall, TiĂȘn Stream, Elephant Stream, and my personal favorite, MÆĄ Waterfall. Although I can't provide detailed information about each waterfall, I can give you an overview. The streams and waterfalls here have a distinctive feature: local people have developed tourism by setting up temporary stalls along the stream banks to serve food and beverages. Overall, cleanliness and hygiene are well-maintained, and the services are reasonably priced. Taking a refreshing dip in the stream, resting at the stalls, enjoying some beer and grilled chicken that are readily prepared can make for an enjoyable plan. If you want to get closer to nature, you can climb over the rock along the stream, the higher you go the scenery more becoming beautiful and fresh.

"Mo" Spring. You need to hike futher along the stream to reach this untouched place.
My wife is relaxing with baby fish
My wife is relaxing with baby fish "massage"
After this tent, there will be more wild places behind
After this tent, there will be more wild places behind

About an hour later, our family arrived at Lang Co Beach and stopped at Huy Hoang Restaurant for lunch. The restaurant is a wooden stilt house located on the sandy beach of Lang Co. While dining here, you can see and listen to the soothing sound of the waves just below your feet. There are stairs leading down to the beach, and when the tide recedes, a long stretch of sand is revealed for people to swim. The menu at the restaurant includes various seafood dishes as well as other regular dishes at reasonable prices. We ordered a plate of fried squid, a seafood fried rice, stir-fried water spinach (served with boiled vegetable broth), and two cans of Coca-Cola, which is total of 280k VND. The squid was fresh and crispy, and it tasted delicious. The seafood fried rice was big and flavorful, so that our family couldn't eat all. Overall, it was a satisfying meal.

Super crispy fried squid
Super crispy fried squid
IMG 2830.JPG

After finish the meal and take a rest, our family continued our journey. Crossing the Lang Co Bridge, we arrived at Hai Van Pass. This pass is known for its steep incline, but currently, the road has been paved and widened, making the journey relatively safe. True to its reputation as one of the most beautiful roads in Vietnam, on one side, there is the sea, and on the other, there are mountains. The winding road of the pass showcases breathtaking and magnificent scenery.

A famous curve on Hai Van pass (Photo: Shutter stock)
A famous curve on Hai Van pass (Photo: Shutter stock)

When we reached the highest part of the pass, we stopped at the In The Cloud cafe to have a drink and see the panoramic view of the pass from above.

Test mĂ u-86
Test mĂ u-87
Test mĂ u-88

After crossing the Hai Van Pass, a beautiful coastal city gradually came into view - Da Nang. Looking down from above, the city appeared modern and charming. Descending for about 10 kilometers, we reached the foot of the pass. Our family continued along Nguyen Tat Thanh Road by the coastline, crossed the Thuan Phuoc Bridge, and followed Hoang Sa Street. We then connected to Vo Nguyen Giap Road to avoid traffic congestion as it was approaching peak hours.

Da Nang - modern city (photo: Shutter stock)
Da Nang - modern city (photo: Shutter stock)
Test mĂ u-90
Test mĂ u-91
DSCF4998

Sunset at Danang port

From there, our family drove slowly along the coastline to see magic sunset. The road from Da Nang to Hoi An was spacious, and the cool sea breeze created a gentle and refreshing feeling. By 5 pm, we arrived in Hoi An, returned to Trace Travel, and concluded our journey of over 400 kilometers.

In conclusion, I would say that this is a truly beautiful route in Central Vietnam. It offers a complete and diverse experience, ranging from the ancient town of Hoi An to pristine forests, where people have lived for thousands of years. We traversed historical routes, such as the Ho Chi Minh Trail, where our ancestors had walked to connect our nation. We visited the former imperial capital of Hue, where kings rested, as well as fishing villages and the majestic Hai Van Pass.

Thank you for reading this article, and I look forward to meeting you in next experiences. We will continue to explore and review the most beautiful routes in Vietnam.

Trace Travel Team