Hanoi & Red River Basin countryside
We wind our way through the bustle of early morning Old Quarter traffic, heading north towards the calmer streets of Tay Ho, bordering West Lake, Hanoi’s largest and arguably most beautiful lake. Tay Ho – where many Westerners live — is a fascinating neighborhood, mixing old Vietnam and western cultures in a unique blend.
Leaving Tay Ho, we continue north along the banks of the mighty Red River, the ancient birthplace of the Vietnamese people and still a major working river. Heading west on small roads we reach a beautiful group of pagodas and temples that are among the oldest Buddhist shrines in Vietnam, dating back a thousand years. We stop to explore and take a coffee break.
South – fields, forested hills, Hoa Binh lake to Mai Chau
Turning south we ride through open countryside, following mostly less-travelled roads that twist through fields and forested hills. Away from the occasional section of major road, the traffic is mostly light and the riding great.
We stop for lunch at a pleasant café, and then follow smaller roads again to the shores of the vast and spectacular Hoa Binh Lake.
We stop for some photos and then traverse the slopes above the lake, passing through some beautiful bamboo forest. Finally, after diverting slightly to visit a lookout with fantastic views, we reach Mai Chau and our friendly resort.
Optional activities
If there is time and energy, there are a number of optional activities. A relaxed motorbike or bicycle ride or trek through the rice fields, beautiful in afternoon light. A visit to a nearby textile & crafts village. A ride on a more challenging dirt road up into the surrounding mountains; or an easier ride along a scenic valley up to a pretty mountain village.
And of course some cool drinks at a sunset bar with splendid views over the rice fields before a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
Option to start the riding day in the Hanoi countryside, avoiding city traffic
For riders who want to avoid the morning Hanoi peak-hour traffic, there is an option (selectable as part of the booking process) to start the morning ride in the countryside – we take you and your luggage in a private car or minibus to a rendezvous point where the bikes are waiting. This saves about 40km of riding and makes for an easier first day.
Accommodation: Resort, Mai Chau
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
