As Vietnam’s summer heat intensifies, many seek respite in cooler climes. Fortunately, this beautiful country offers an abundance of “green” destinations – places rich in natural beauty, lush landscapes, and refreshing temperatures – perfect for escaping the sweltering city. From misty mountains to serene plateaus, here are some top picks for a rejuvenating summer getaway.
1. Da Lat, Lam Dong Province: The City of Eternal Spring
Perched on the Lang Biang Plateau at an altitude of 1,500 meters, Da Lat truly lives up to its moniker, “The City of Eternal Spring.” Its year-round mild climate, often feeling like autumn even in the peak of summer, makes it a perennial favorite. Visitors can stroll through pine forests, admire French colonial architecture, explore vibrant flower gardens like the Da Lat Flower Garden and the Valley of Love, or enjoy the cool air by Xuan Huong Lake. Waterfalls like Datanla and Pongour offer refreshing natural spectacles, and the town’s charming cafes provide perfect spots to unwind.
2. Sapa, Lao Cai Province: A Misty Mountain Retreat
For those who crave truly cool temperatures and breathtaking scenery, Sapa in the northern mountains is an ideal choice. Nestled amidst towering rice terraces and verdant valleys, Sapa offers a refreshing escape from the heat. The air is crisp and clean, and the views of Fansipan, Indochina’s highest peak, are awe-inspiring. Trekking through ethnic minority villages, exploring the Muong Hoa Valley, and visiting the Silver Waterfall (Thac Bac) are popular activities that immerse visitors in the natural beauty and unique culture of the region. Even in summer, Sapa can be quite cool, sometimes even requiring a light jacket in the evenings.
3. Bach Ma National Park, Thua Thien Hue Province: A Biodiversity Hotspot
Located between Hue and Da Nang, Bach Ma National Park is a hidden gem for nature lovers. With an average altitude of 1,400 meters, it boasts a significantly cooler climate than the surrounding coastal areas. This biodiverse park is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, numerous hiking trails leading to stunning waterfalls like Do Quyen (Rhododendron) and the Five Lakes (Ngu Ho), and panoramic viewpoints offering spectacular vistas. The fresh, clean air and the sounds of nature make Bach Ma a perfect sanctuary for those looking to reconnect with the wilderness and escape the summer heat.
4. Tam Dao, Vinh Phuc Province: The “Mini Sapa” of the North
Just a few hours’ drive from Hanoi, Tam Dao is often called the “Mini Sapa” due to its similar cool climate and misty atmosphere. Perched at an altitude of nearly 1,000 meters, this hill station offers a welcome respite from the urban heat. Visitors can explore the ancient stone church, conquer the Tam Dao TV Tower for panoramic views, or simply enjoy the fresh air and tranquility. The area is also known for its delicious local produce, particularly chayote, which thrives in the cool conditions.
5. Moc Chau, Son La Province: Green Tea Hills and Pristine Nature
Moc Chau, a vast plateau in Son La province, is renowned for its endless green tea plantations and picturesque dairy farms. While not as high in altitude as Sapa or Da Lat, its expansive open spaces and elevation still provide a noticeably cooler and more refreshing climate than the lowlands. Summer is a beautiful time to visit, with lush green landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see. Visitors can explore tea hills, pick strawberries, visit dairy farms, and enjoy the serene, uncrowded atmosphere that offers a true escape from the summer rush.
Whether you’re seeking misty mountains, tranquil lakes, or lush forests, Vietnam’s “green” destinations offer a refreshing antidote to the summer heat. These places promise cooler temperatures and opportunities to immerse yourself in stunning natural beauty and experience a different side of Vietnamese culture. So, pack your bags and prepare to embrace the cool breezes of Vietnam’s summer havens.