Hoa Binh, Vietnam among World’s Top 71 Most stunning destinations in the world

On December 26, 2024, the prestigious travel magazine “Condé Nast Traveller” revealed its list of the top 71 most beautiful places to visit worldwide. Hoa Binh, the only representative from Vietnam, was included. The recognition reflects not only Hoa Binh’s rich natural landscapes but also its authentic cultural experiences and unique heritage, making the province a must-visit destination for international travelers.  

In the heart of Northern Highland

Hoa Binh, located at the gate of Vietnam Northwest, is an unmissable destination for travelers who seeking spectacular landscapes and authenticity in local culture.

Majestic and untouched nature 

Hoa Binh is known for its diverse and unspoiled nature. The lush green mountains, often shrouded in mist in the early morning, offer a perfect backdrop for photographers and hikers. The Hoa Binh Lake, also known as “Đà Lake”, featuring shimmering waters and scattered islands, is an ideal spot for peaceful cruising and captivating kayak excursions.

Hoa Binh province is also a hotbed of Muong culture, one of Vietnam’s most important ethnic minorities. Travelers can explore authentic villages such as Giang Mo or Lac, where stilt houses, traditional costumes, and local festivals embody the history and customs of the inhabitants. Immersive activities such as taking part in weaving workshops, tasting local dishes like com lam (sticky rice in bamboo tube), or listening to traditional songs allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in indigenous culture.

A multifaceted destination 

According to Condé Nast Traveller, beside its awe-inspiring nature, Hoa Binh distinguishes itself with numerous captivating activities. Whether you enjoy trekking in the mountains, cycling through the picturesque rice paddies, or simply seeking serenity admist the nature, Hoa Binh can cater for all your desires.

However, what makes Hoa Binh really special is the warm hospitality of local people. Their sincere smiles, friendly gestures and stories shared around a campfire or during a family meal promise to leave a lasting impression on every travelers.

A vibrant tapestry 

Hoa Binh’s vast rice paddies, framed by majestic mountain ranges, form a living tableau that changes with the seasons. This idyllic setting, enhanced by the authenticity of the local villages, attracts large numbers of travelers every year in search of peace and beauty.

The spellbinding charm of the golden season

From September to the end of October, Mai Chau dons its golden cloak, transforming the rice fields into a shimmering sea of rice under sunlight. This period, also referred to as the “Golden Season” is the perfect time to visit Mai Chau. The rice fields, ready for the harvest, give off a sweet aroma of earth and ripe grain, creating a soothing, warm atmosphere.

Travelers can venture out on foot or bike on the winding paths that line the vast rice fields to take in the impressive views of this enchanting landscape. This journey is a chance to come across local villagers, often busy harvesting rice or working in the fields, adding a touch of humanity to this natural fresco.

Ban Lac – a village rich in culture and history

Ban Lac, located in the center of Mai Chau, embodies the soul of this region. With its history of 700 years, this land is a symbol of white Thai culture, one of the main ethnic groups in Hoa Binh.   

At dawn, the village holds a dreamlike beauty, featuring stilt houses of wood and bamboo, standing proudly amid the morning mist, creating a mystical, yet at the same time, soothing landscape. The villagers, welcoming and warm, perpetuates a simple way of life close to nature. Travelers can spend nights in their traditional houses transformed into homestays to enjoy a unique experience of conviviality and a deep connection to local culture.

In the evening, dances and traditional songs, accompanied by local instruments such as the khen, plunge travelers into a total cultural immersion.

Accommodations and authentic experiences in Hoa Binh

Hoa Binh offers a plethora of accommodating options and immersive activities adapting to every preference. The ecolodges and homestays in Hoa Binh are not just places to sleep but are true experiences themselves.  Here are some of a few must-visited lodging facilities in Hoa Binh:

Mai Chau Ecolodge

Nestling on a lush green hill, this resort offers stunning views of the surrounding rice fields. The bungalows, built from natural materials such as bamboo and wood, provide a traditional feel from traditional decorations while offering modern comforts such as air conditioning and private bathrooms. Other than activities such as guided walks around nearby villages, travelers can enjoy scrumptious local cuisine, and learn how to make some region’s specialties by participating in cooking classes in the resort’s on-site restaurant. 

La Maison de Buoc

This charming homestay, located in the peaceful Buoc village, offers total immersion in local life. The rooms, in traditional stilt houses, feature an elegant simplicity that will delight travelers in search of authenticity. By choosing La Maison de Buoc, guests can share meals with the locals, learn about their way of life, and take part in craft workshops, such as weaving or making traditional products.

Bakhan Village Resort

For those seeking the perfect blend of luxury and closeness to nature, this resort is an ideal option.

Located near Hoa Binh Lake, the modern villa is framed by breathtaking scenery. Bakhan Village Resort focuses on sustainable tourism, supporting initiatives such as recycling and preserving the local environment. Guests can explore the surrounding area by bike, relax by the infinity pool, or enjoy massages inspired by local techniques.

Cultural and artisanal activities

Here are some must-try cultural and artisanal activities while in Hoa Binh.

Weaving unique handicrafts

Weaving is an ancestral skill passed down from generation to generation among the local ethnic groups, particularly the Thai and Muong. Weaving workshops introduce travelers to traditional looms used to create colorful patterned fabrics. These fabrics, often used to make clothing or decorative objects, reflect the beliefs and stories of each community.

By participating in these workshops, travelers discover not only weaving techniques but also the symbolic meaning behind every color and motif, deeply rooted in local culture. After the workshops, participants can bring home their work as a tribute to their involvement in this meticulous craft.

Folk dances: a journey through the rhythm of tradition 

Folk dances are one of the most vibrant expressions of the Hoa Binh culture. Two emblematic dances, “mua sạp” and “mua xoè”, captivate visitors with their energy and symbolism 

Mua Sap

Mua sap, also known as bamboo dance or Cheraw, is a real demonstration of coordination and rhythm, as participants dance between the long bamboo poles while they are rhythmically struck together. Often done during festivals and celebrations, the dance is a fun and entertaining activity, inviting the visitors to join the locals in a festive atmosphere.

Mua Xoe

This dance, often characterized by circular movements, symbolizes unity and harmony. During the dance, dancers perform graceful movements and hand gestures, often backed by traditional songs and instruments such as “Khen”. Mua xoe promises an unforgettable memory, as it allows you to feel the community spirit that characterizes the region.

Traditional games and leisure activities

Making and flying kites

Kites, often made from bamboo and paper, symbolize freedom and the connection with nature. The kite-making workshops allow participants to design their own kite, before flying it in the clear mountain skies.

Night camping

Campfire is an opportunity to plunge into the local tales and legends. As the night unfolds with convivial moments, featuring stories told by the village elders, complemented by traditional music and typical dishes, you will feel a bond is set between yourself, the land, and its inhabitants.   

Traditional games

Activities such as archery, sack races, and cockfights are often organized at local festivals. Visitors can try their hand at these games and discover how important they are to community celebrations.

Must-try dishes in Hoa Binh to tantalize the taste buds

Cơm lam

Com Lam is one of Hoa Binh’s must-try dishes. This glutinous rice, cooked in bamboo tubes over a wood fire, is imbued with a delicate smoky flavor that makes it a real delicacy. Carefully prepared, the rice is often served with sesame salt or some grilled meat dishes, creating a perfect balance between tastes and textures.

Traditionally, Com Lam was the meal of farmers or mountain hikers owing to its easy portability. Today, it has become a must-try specialty for visitors to Hoa Binh, often served in festive contexts or simply in family meals.

Grilled Chicken

Marinated with a variety of local spices, Hoa Binh’s grilled chicken is distinguished by its tender and fragrant flavor. Herbs such as wild ginger, lemongrass, and lime leaves enrich the marinade,  giving the dish a sophisticated balance between sweetness and spiciness. Slow-cooked over coals, this dish is then served with a sauce made from chili and lime.      

Roasted Mán Pork 

Made from pigs raised in the wild by local ethnic groups, Mán pork is renowned for the finesse of its taste and texture. The pork is seasoned with typical ingredients such as star anise, coriander seeds, and wild pepper before being roasted to perfection. The crispy skin outside contrasts deliciously with the tenderness of the flesh inside, making it a particularly popular dish for festive meals.

Wild vegetables: a direct connection to nature

The natural richness of Hoa Binh is also reflected in the side dishes, including wild vegetables collected from the forests. Some popular varieties include young bamboo shoots, fern leaves, and banana flowers. steamed, sautéed with garlic, or added to soups, these vegetables bring incomparable freshness and authenticity to every meal.

Why Hoa Binh for your next trip?

Hoa Binh, the gateway to northwestern Vietnam, is a destination that embodies the essence of unspoiled nature, cultural traditions, and warm hospitality. Just a two-hour drive from Hanoi, this province is a haven of peace that caters to all types of travelers, whether they're looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation.

Easy Accessibility

With proximity to Hanoi, Hoa Binh is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or extended stay. The scenic roads to this region already offer a glimpse of what awaits you: verdant mountains, fertile valleys, and rice terraces glistening in the sunshine. Hoa Binh is a true paradise for nature lovers. From crystal-clear waterfalls to mysterious caves and majestic mountains, every corner of the province invites you to marvel.

A destination that welcomes every traveler 

For adventure lovers: hiking, cycling, cave exploration, or water sports on Lake Hoa Binh.

For family: Stroll through traditional villages, explore the local ecosystem or relax by the river.

For couples: Romantic getaways in top-notch resorts with breathtaking mountain views.

Whether you're looking for a getaway or an authentic experience, Hoa Binh has it all to match your desire. Every scenery tells a story, every encounter with local villagers is a lesson in humanity, and every moment spent here will become an unforgettable memory. 

Don't wait any longer to discover this authentic and inspiring region of Vietnam. Hòa Bình awaits you, ready to offer you a journey to the heart of nature, culture, and conviviality.

TOLUNHA

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