Cycle Vietnam 15 Days

This morning, seize the opportunity to explore the Vietnamese capital by bicycle on a guided ride through the city (approximately 22 km). Hanoi is a city designed for bicycle exploration, making it an ideal place to immerse yourself in Vietnamese street life and traffic. Pedal through parks, along lakeshores, and down tree-lined boulevards, visiting iconic landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, which houses the Buddhist temple One Pillar Pagoda and the former residence of Vietnam’s renowned revolutionary figure, Ho Chi Minh. Take in the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Quarter, an architectural museum where ochre-hued buildings evoke the ambiance of a 1930s provincial French town. Along the ancient '36 Streets,' explore a diverse array of shops offering everything from souvenirs to exquisite silk clothing, jewelry, beautifully embroidered tablecloths, wood carvings, and lacquerware – a haven for bargain hunters. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, where the reflections of modern office buildings, ancient Buddhist temples, and the maze of historic streets create a tranquil setting. Alternatively, delve into the rich culture at the Vietnam Fine Art Museum or The Vietnamese Women’s Museum. Conclude the day with a bowl of piping-hot fresh Pho from a quaint hole-in-the-wall eatery – the street food in Hanoi is a culinary experience not to be missed! Riding distance: approximately 22 km/14 miles, mostly flat with an elevation gain of approximately 40 m/130 ft.

Lodging: Hotel

Gear up this morning as your cycling expedition shifts into gear. Bid farewell to Hanoi and embark on a bus journey to Hoa Binh (approximately 2 hours). Upon arrival, hop on your bike and pedal 38 kilometers to Cao Phong, traversing small ethnic Thai villages, immersing yourself in the tranquility of paddy fields, and engaging with the local communities. Limestone peaks rise in the backdrop, while verdant banks line the road, prompting regular stops to appreciate the panoramic views across the lush valleys. Following your arrival, enjoy a brief 30-minute bus ride to the next leg, with lunch scheduled at Man Duc. Once energized, the bus will transport you to the Da River Reservoir. Stretch your legs again while cycling along the Da River, passing impressive karst cliffs, navigating through paddy fields, and reveling in the lush panorama of the Mai Chau valley (approximately 19 kilometers). Nestled in a gorgeously scenic valley surrounded by green mountains, the serene town of Mai Chau is renowned for its stunning landscapes and the warm hospitality of its hilltribe communities. Tonight, experience local warmth in a simple stilt-house homestay in the village of Poom Coong. Your hospitable hosts will prepare a delightful home-cooked meal, and you might even have the opportunity to savor some of the local rice wine produced in the region. Riding distances: Ride 1 - approximately 38 km/24 miles, uphill with an elevation gain of approximately 330 m/1080 ft. Ride 2 - approximately 19 km/12 miles, mostly downhill with an elevation gain of approximately 80 m/260 ft.

Lodging: Homestay

Bid farewell to your homestay hosts this morning and embark on a cycling journey from Mai Chau to Mai Hai, continuing to Co Luong (approximately 50 km). Navigate through more paddy fields, testing your riding skills (or suspension) over the shallow potholes scattered along the road. Witness farmers atop their loads, guided by lumbering water buffalo, as you pass through small towns and exchange waves with friendly locals. Traverse the idyllic landscapes of Vietnam – verdant green fields, towering limestone mountains, serene waterways, and charming historic sites. A bus journey then takes you along the Ho Chi Minh Road, with a lunch stop before reaching Ninh Binh. If time (and energy) permits upon arrival in Ninh Binh, consider embarking on a 36 km cycle around the surrounding area. This presents a wonderful opportunity to observe everyday rural life and immerse yourself in the beauty of the countryside. Riding distances: Ride 1 - approximately 49 km/30 miles, mostly downhill with an elevation gain of approximately 195 m/640 ft. Ride 2 - approximately 36 km/22 miles, mostly flat with an elevation gain of approximately 50 m/165 ft.

Lodging: Hotel

This morning, embark on a cycling journey from Ninh Binh to Tam Coc, providing you with the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in one of Vietnam's most breathtaking vistas – limestone karst peaks emerging from tranquil rice paddies. Experience the sights and sounds of the river winding through the fields, adorned with boats parading along its length. Your cycling adventure also takes you to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam during the 10th-century Dinh Dynasty, where remnants of its splendor can be observed in the enduring archways and temples. Enjoy a lunch break at either the Dinh or the Le Temple. Today's cycling covers approximately 50 kilometers. Afterward, board the bus for the return journey to your hotel, where you can utilize a day room to freshen up and take a shower. Following an early dinner, transfer to Nam Dinh for an overnight train journey to Hue. Notes: The conditions on the overnight train to Hue (approximately 12 hours) are basic but offer a genuine Intrepid experience and an authentic way to cover long distances like a local. Sleeper trains typically feature four-berth compartments (occasionally six-berth depending on seasonal variations and group configuration), with bench seats that convert into sleeping bunks. A sheet, pillow, and blanket are provided, although some travelers prefer to bring their own sleeping sheet. There may be instances where passengers of different genders share a compartment, and you might share with local or non-group travelers. Most trains have a dining carriage serving simple food, but some travelers opt to stock up on fresh bread, cheese, and fruit before departure. Riding distance: approximately 52 km/32 miles, undulating with an elevation gain of approximately 195 m/640 ft.

Accommodation: Overnight sleeper train

Upon arrival in Hue, embark on another cycling adventure to explore the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Hue boasts the treasures of Vietnam's royal history and seamlessly combines vibrant streets with serene surroundings. Today's ride covers approximately 16 kilometers, taking you through fields to visit various remarkable sites in Hue, including temples, bunkers, tombs, ruins, and pagodas amidst breathtaking scenery. The Imperial Citadel, encompassing the Forbidden Purple City, is on the itinerary. Despite the extensive damage during the Vietnam War's Tet Offensive, the foliage-covered ruins exude an atmospheric charm, offering insights into the wartime destruction. The flexible itinerary allows ample time for stops, enabling you to appreciate the sites along the way. Later, relax at a local cafe or restaurant, savoring Hue's renowned cuisine influenced by its imperial legacy and strong Buddhist heritage. The bustling Dong Ba Market provides a rich array of goods and local specialties, such as 'banh khoai,' Hue's version of a pancake, once featured on the Nguyen emperors' banquet tables. Riding distance: approximately 16 km/10 miles, flat with an elevation gain of around 12 m/40 ft.

Accommodation: Hotel

Today promises a thrilling cycling adventure with approximately 85 kilometers of mountainous riding, showcasing breathtaking views as you conquer the Hai Van (Ocean Cloud) Pass en route to the laid-back town of Hoi An. The pass winds through the Truong Son mountain range for about 20 kilometers, offering captivating vistas across the Bay of Danang to the south. As you ascend to 500 meters above sea level, the up/down slope ranges from 5-10%, allowing for well-deserved breaks to appreciate the scenery, capture photos, and stay hydrated. Following the rewarding cycle, you'll arrive in Hoi An—a town adorned with lantern-lit streets, bustling markets, skilled tailors, artisan shops, ancient houses, vibrant temples, and warm smiles, creating a Vietnamese wonderland. Recognized as a World Heritage site, Hoi An is undergoing careful restoration, preserving its timeless charm. The low tiled buildings lining the streets reflect the town's appearance over a century ago, inviting leisurely strolls. Use the evening to immerse yourself in the atmosphere or unwind at a local restaurant after a day of cycling. Riding distances: Ride 1 - approximately 56 km/35 miles, flat with an elevation gain of around 55 m/180 ft. Ride 2 - approximately 30 km/19 miles, significant uphill and downhill with an elevation gain of about 576 m/1890 ft.

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, your guide will lead you on a leisurely walking tour of Hoi An, a town that once thrived as a bustling port for the Cham people until the river gradually silted up. With a noticeable Chinese influence, evident in the pagodas and assembly halls lining the streets, your tour will cover key sites such as a historic house (formerly owned by a prominent trader), the Japanese Covered Bridge, a Chinese assembly hall, and a museum. The afternoon is yours to explore according to your preferences. Hoi An is a shopping paradise, offering a variety of items such as original paintings, handcrafted woodwork, ceramics, embroidered goods, lanterns, and more. Renowned for its tailoring, the town allows you to select a fabric and design, with your custom-made garment ready the same day. If you're in the mood for activity, consider a 15-20 kilometer ride into the surrounding countryside, a cycling excursion to nearby Cua Dai Beach, or a leisurely stroll through fields of rice, sesame, banana, and peanuts. Riding distance: none

Accommodation: Hotel

Journeying southward along the picturesque Highway One, you'll traverse the less-explored route to Quy Nhon. En route, pass by paddy fields, witness wheat drying for Beer Hoi, and observe locals engaged in chess games in Phu. Afterward, resume your cycling adventure to reach the coastal city of Quy Nhon (approximately 45kms). Boasting long stretches of beach and laid-back boulevards, Quy Nhon offers an authentic glimpse into coastal life, relatively undiscovered by many travelers. Riding distance: approx. 44kms/27 miles, undulating with approx. 255m/840ft of elevation gain.

Accommodation: Hotel

Embark on today's cycling adventure covering approximately 95 kilometers, featuring one of the most awe-inspiring stretches of road you'll encounter. The highway gracefully winds along colossal granite cliffs, offering panoramic views of the deep blue sea. Tracing parts of the Reunification railway, you'll be treated to scenic landscapes of islands, lagoons, and sand dunes. As you approach the charming coastal town of Nha Trang, once dubbed the 'Cannes of the Orient,' join the scooter riders on the waterfront promenade. Nha Trang boasts sandy palm-lined beaches and a bay adorned with picturesque islands, creating a truly idyllic setting. The town is renowned for its consistently pleasant weather, vibrant nightlife, and exceptional diving opportunities. Riding distances: Ride 1 - approx. 75kms/47 miles – lightly undulating with approx. 165m/530ft of elevation gain. Ride 2 - approx. 19kms/12 miles - lightly undulating with approx. 140m/460ft of elevation gain.

Accommodation: Hotel

Today, the bicycle takes a backseat as you embark on a boat adventure to explore the nearby islands. This excursion often stands out as a highlight for many travelers, offering an opportunity to connect with locals and revel in the region's natural beauty. Beginning on the main boat, you'll transition to a small basket boat to reach the shore, where you'll visit a fishing village, snorkel in the turquoise waters, and savor a delectable seafood buffet for lunch. Use this leisure day to unwind in a deck chair, take another refreshing swim, or indulge in a mud bath to alleviate any lingering muscle soreness.

Accommodation: Hotel

Ascend through the Bidoup-Nui Ba Pass into the refreshing South Central Highlands (approximately 65 kilometers), where some of the finest fruits, flowers, and coffee beans flourish. The road meanders and inclines, presenting a challenging ride for those eager to conquer the entire mountain on their bikes. If a more leisurely approach is preferred, catching a lift from the bus is a convenient option. Regardless of the chosen mode of ascent, reaching the summit promises breathtaking views. Following a brief stop for photos, you'll descend to Dalat. Recognized as one of Vietnam's most charming cities, Dalat boasts a distinctive Swiss-French ambiance and features picturesque lakes, palaces, pine-covered hills, flower gardens, and pagodas. Often referred to as the 'city of eternal spring' due to its temperate climate, Dalat serves as an ideal hub for exploring the surrounding region. Riding distances: Ride 1 - approx. 57kms/35 miles, gently undulating with approx. 160m/530ft of elevation gain. Ride 2 - approx. 15kms/9 miles, gently undulating with approx. 110m/360ft of elevation gain.

Accommodation: Hotel

This morning, embark on a city tour of Dalat, venturing to Bao Dai's magnificent royal summer palace. Bao Dai, the last emperor of the Nguyen dynasty, ruled Vietnam until 1945. Next, explore the quirky and whimsical architecture of Hang Nga Crazy House, a guesthouse with unconventional designs reminiscent of Gaudi's style. Described as a 'fairytale house,' wander through its twisted tree roots, cave-shaped hallways, and animal-themed rooms. Visit the train station and central market before heading to Di Linh, renowned for its tea plantations nestled in the surrounding hills. After lunch, pedal down the forest-lined Gia Bac Pass, then cycle from Malam to Phan Thiet with its captivating beaches. Riding distances: Ride 1 - approx. 22kms/14 miles, mostly downhill with approx. 85m/280ft of elevation gain. Ride 2 - approx. 45kms/ 28 miles, mostly downhill with approx. 30m/100ft of elevation gain.

Accommodation: Hotel

You're on the home stretch now, ready for one last cycling adventure. Before making your way to the bustling metropolis, enjoy the scenic beach views on your ride to Lang Long. Have a picnic lunch and continue cycling (approximately 55 kilometres) to Cu Bi. Bid farewell to your trusty two-wheeled companion as you take the support bus for the final stretch to Ho Chi Minh City. Here, the streets come alive with daily life, creating a dynamic atmosphere that beautifully blends the old with the new, and the East with the West. Consider spending your last night in Vietnam exploring the food stalls at Ben Thanh market or raising a glass to yourself and your newfound friends with a few drinks at a street-side beer hoi spot. Riding distance: approx. 56kms/35 miles, mostly flat with a hill at the end, approx. 125m/410ft of elevation gain.

Accommodation: Hotel

Your Cycle Vietnam adventure concludes today. No specific activities are scheduled, and you have the flexibility to check out of the accommodation at your convenience. If you decide to extend your stay, Ho Chi Minh City offers numerous attractions and activities to explore. Riding distance: none