Mountainous district of Binh Lieu in Quang Ninh province, some 270 km from Ha Noi, is known as a “miniature Sa Pa,” suitable for a two-day trekking trip to enjoy the fresh air.
Let us explore Binh Lieu, a locality with temperate climate, diverse terrains, and nice scenery, during the following suggested 48 hours journey.
First day
Visitors should experience trekking Song Mooc terraced fields on their first day of exploring Binh Lieu. The fields are in Song Mooc village, Dong Van commune, and surrounded by mountains and clouds. The village is home to many old houses, waterfalls, and its terraced fields are among the most beautiful in Binh Lieu district.
Terraced fields in Binh Lieu in mid-October
Visitors trekking to explore the terraced fields
“Rice in Song Mooc terraced fields ripens later than that in other regions in the North, so early November is the right time to see the golden season here,” said Ha Minh, a representative of a local tourism agency.
While in Song Mooc village, visitors have an opportunity to learn about the daily life of local people from Dao Thanh Phan ethnic group, and the way they weave and embroider traditional costumes. The Dao Thanh Phan ethnic people often wear colorful traditional costumes, especially the red headwear covered with a scarf of peacock patterns.
The Dao Thanh Phan ethnic people often wear colorful traditional costumes, especially the red headwear covered with a scarf of peacock patterns.
Visitors should have lunch and take a rest at Song Mooc homestay.
If visiting Binh Lieu in the season of reeds, visitors should not miss Marker 1297, one of the places with the most reeds. The marker is located in Bac Xa commune, Dinh Lap district, Lang Son province, which borders Binh Lieu district’s Vo Ngai commune from which visitors can get access to the marker.
The ideal time to come here is at sunset. On sunny days, the sunset is very impressive. From the marker, visitors can view the majestic mountains and forests.
Motels and homestays are available in Binh Lieu. The price for a room ranges from VND 200,000 to VND 500,000 VND.
In Binh Lieu, visitors can try local food at the central market.
An overview of the central market in Binh Lieu
Second day
After breakfast, visitors may travel to Dong Tam commune for kayaking on the Tien Yen River.
According to Minh, the Tien Yen River with rocky banks and small rapids offers many interesting and adventurous experiences to visitors.
Whether kayaking or cycling, visitors will have a relaxing time, exploring the peaceful beauty of Binh Lieu.
Later they should stop at Na Nang suspension bridge, having lunch at a local restaurant on the riverbank.
Some 10km from Binh Lieu town is Khe Van waterfall in Huc Dong commune. The nearly 300m high waterfall has three levels and is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Binh Lieu, recognized as a provincial-level scenic relic in 2011.
Due to the slippery terrain here, visitors should be careful to avoid slipping when jumping or bathing in the lake at the foot of the waterfall.
Alternative stops for visitors while in Binh Lieu district are marker 1035, the ‘dinosaur spine’ shaped road, Hoanh Mo Border Gate, and Cao Ly Mountain.
Translated by Mai Huong