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Where to Go Cycling in Vietnam

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Where to Go Cycling in Vietnam

Lirene CilliersBy Lirene Cilliers   Posted 12th Sep 2023

Does the thought of pedaling through the spellbinding landscapes of Vietnam have you on the edge of your seat? With its stunning coastlines and enchanting highlands, Vietnam is the ultimate haven for a bike tour that promises endless adventures. 

But hold on a second—we know that choosing the best cycling spot in such a diverse country can make anyone's head spin. 

It's completely natural to feel a tad overwhelmed with Vietnam's cycling wonders spread out before you like a buffet. That's exactly why we're sharing Where to Go Cycling in Vietnam so that you can find your perfect route in no time. 

Let's make your cycling dreams in Vietnam a reality – shall we? 

1. The Famous Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta has been the lifeblood of southern Vietnam for centuries. It's a sprawling maze of rivers, swamps, and floating markets, and cycling here means you're treading on paths that have seen empires rise and fall.  

But what's the riding like? 

The cycling experience in the Mekong Delta is as diverse as the landscape itself. The terrain is predominantly flat, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride for cyclists of all levels. You'll experience a diverse range of surfaces, from smooth concrete to well-kept dirt paths. 

These narrow, shaded paths guide you through the heart of this lively place, where you'll catch locals in action. They're growing flowers, molding clay bricks, and shuttling an array of colorful fruits and veggies to bustling floating markets. 

If you're up for a remarkable journey that brings together generations, adventurers and leisure seekers alike while unveiling the beauty of both Vietnam and Cambodia, our Mekong Bike and Boat Adventure is calling your name.

It's the kind of experience that caught the eye of National Geographic, earning its place as the ultimate adventure to inspire wanderlust. 

2. Central Highlands: Where Coffee and Scenery Percolate

Head up to the Highlands, where the air is crisp, and the coffee is stronger than rocket fuel. 

Un known to many, Vietnam is the second-largest coffee producer in the world, and the Central Highlands is where it all begins. 

The Highlands played a crucial role during the Vietnam War, and cycling through this region gives you a sense of the resilient spirit of the Vietnamese people. 

The terrain is mostly flat with occasional small hills. As you pedal along, you'll be surrounded by coffee plantations stretching as far as the eye can see. The aroma of freshly roasted beans fills the air, inviting you for a sip. Trust us; you've never tasted coffee this good. 

The Highlands aren't just about coffee, though. Majestic waterfalls, terraced rice fields, and friendly hill-tribe villages dot the landscape.  

Explore Vietnam's stunning landscapes with a little extra 'oomph'. Join us on our Vietnam E-Bike tour and experience the joy of effortless riding through some of the most breathtaking regions.

3. Hoi An: Where Time Stands Still (in a good way) 

Hoi An was once a bustling trading port, where merchants from around the world converged. The town's architecture reflects this eclectic mix of cultures. 

Here, the landscape is as easygoing as a Sunday morning stroll, featuring mostly flat terrain and the occasional gentle hill for a leisurely cycling experience. 

As you navigate your bike through Hoi An's ancient streets, you'll be greeted by mustard-colored buildings adorned with lanterns and flowers, painting a postcard-worthy scene. The unhurried pace of life here is contagious, but in the best way possible. 

Don't forget to take a break and try some of the local dishes. Cao Lau, a delicious noodle dish unique to Hoi An, is a must-try. It's so good; it might just become your new favorite comfort food. 

If you're yearning for a family vacation that's both fun and culturally enriching, our Vietnam Active Family Tour ticks all the boxes. It's an adventure that's designed to bring smiles to faces of all ages. 

4. Hue: Where History's Echoes Reside 

If you've got a thing for history, Hue is your playground.  

Hue was once the imperial capital of Vietnam, and its home to the UNESCO-listed Imperial City, a walled fortress filled with palaces, temples, and forbidden gates. 

As you explore the Imperial City, you'll feel like a time traveler. The architecture here is a blend of Vietnamese and French styles, a testament to its historical significance. The terrain here offers a bit of everything - some flat stretches for relaxed cruising and occasional gentle hills to keep you on your toes, but nothing too strenuous.

But Hue isn't just about the past. The Perfume River meanders through the city, offering a tranquil backdrop to your cycling adventure. You can even hop on a dragon boat and let the river carry you away. 

Seeking the freedom to explore Vietnam at your own pace? Our Vietnam Self-Guided Ocean Road Bike Tour offers just that, and we've got you covered with our handy app – it's like having a local expert in your pocket, guiding you to the best places. 

5. Cycling from Hue to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass: A Ride to Remember 

Now, let's dive into the thrilling ride from Hue to Hoi An, where the Hai Van Pass takes center stage. It's a journey that combines the best of two worlds: the charm of Hoi An and the historical riches of Hue.  

You might recognize the Hai Van Pass from the BBC's "Top Gear" series, where it's been dubbed one of the most scenic coastal roads in the world. 

Begin our adventure by cycling over the Hai Van Pass from Hue to Danang, eventually arriving in Hoi An, Vietnam's most well-preserved and beautiful colonial city. 

This pass is a sustained climb of 10km with a lovely descent of the same length immediately after. The gradient is manageable, allowing you to find your own comfortable pace. As you pedal up, the world unfolds around you. It's like a stairway to heaven, only without the rock 'n' roll soundtrack. 

Here's the beauty of this ride – it's suitable for riders of varying fitness levels. And if you opt for our Vietnam Essentials Bike Tour, vehicle assistance is available if you need a breather. 

6. Ha Giang: For the Brave-Hearted Cyclists 

Hold on to your handlebars, because the Ha Giang loop isn't for the faint of heart.  

Ha Giang is a remote, mountainous province way up north in Vietnam, where the landscapes are so jaw-dropping, you'd think Mother Nature herself took a paintbrush to them. Picture terraced rice fields that look like they belong in a fantasy novel, deep valleys that make you feel like you're in a movie, and peaks that reach for the sky. 

But here's the catch: Ha Giang’s trails are no walk in the park. They're steep, they're winding, and they'll make your legs beg for mercy. However, the payoff is worth every drop of sweat.  

Now, it's your turn to turn these dreams into reality. Whether you're captivated by the serene beauty of the Mekong Delta, the invigorating aroma of the Highlands, or the timeless history of Hue, we've got the insider knowledge to make your cycling adventure unforgettable. 

So, what are you waiting for? It's time to embark on your own two-wheeled escapade through Vietnam's captivating landscapes. Your next cycling adventure awaits!  
Explore more of what a bike tour in Vietnam has to offer. 

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