Vietnam Cycle And Culture Holiday

Hue is one of the most beautiful cities in Vietnam and served as its political capital from 1802 to 1945 under the rule of the 13 emperors, the Nguyen Dynasty. To this day the city remains one of Vietnam’s most important cultural, religious, and educational centers. Hue was declared a UNESCO World Heritage in 1993 and attracts visitors from around the world.
Following breakfast, start cycling from the hotel to explore some of Hue’s most important cultural sites. First stop at the Imperial Citadel, which is modeled after the Forbidden City in China. While much of this site was destroyed during the Tet Offensive, gain a clear understanding of how the Royal family lived in the peek of their rule. After exploring the ruins we cruise along Perfume River to Thien Mu pagoda, and continue cycling to Ming Mang mausoleum, and then make a loop across the perfume river to Hue via the mausoleum with another stop at Khai Dinh. Overnight in Hue.

Cycling distance up to: 30 km

This morning we cycle in a countryside loop of Hue through back roads to visit the traditional village of Phuoc Tich. The route leads us through many untouched villages and local markets (Catholic village, bamboo making village, incense making village….)
Many homes in Phuoc Tich dated back 200 years and highlight feng shui design. Enjoy a traditional lunch at local host and learn more about the history of the village. In the afternoon, continue cycling along the scenic route back to Hue. Overnight in Hue.

Cycling distance up to: 50km

Leave Hue for Hoi An, a major Asian trading port in the 17th and 18th centuries where the architecture and relaxed lifestyle has changed little over the years. The scenic route passes through the wonderfully photogenic fishing village of Lang Co before climbing over the “Pass of Ocean Clouds”.
Drive through Danang and visit the Cham Museum, which contains the finest collection of Cham sculptures in the world. In the afternoon, hop on a bicycle for a country loop around Hoi An. Starting from Hoi An city center, the ride heads out along backroads into the countryside, passing through peaceful villages and vegetable farms. Guests can stop at a pagoda, have a cup of tea and possibly even talk to the local monks. They can also choose to join the local farmers in preparing the land and fertilizing it with seaweed.
Continue by crossing to Cam Thanh islet and discover how locals turn coconut leaves into natural thatched roofs for their houses. Keep cycling along Thu Bon River to the fishing village until sunset – a special moment of the day. There is no better place to see this than beside a coconut palm plantation on the Thu Bon River. Along the way, take a chance to paddle in a local basket boat known as a “thung chai”. Overnight in Hoi An.

Cycling distance for short option: 20km
Cycling distance for long option: 35 km (adds an additional 15 km in Hoian)

After another night in Hoi An, the next morning starts with a bicycle ride out of town to My Son. The ride is worth the effort in itself and is arguably one of the best rides of the trip. Drive out of town to avoid the highway before cycling along scenic country roads surrounded by rice paddies, through eucalyptus forests and passing many scenic villages.
The road climbs away from the coast that gives guests the opportunity to see the view from the mountain top. Along the way, the road cuts though a gorge to the lush jungle alongside the Song Tranh River, before arrive in My Son, which was once the Champa Kingdom’s main religious complex. Although many of the temples were destroyed during the war, there is still enough of the archaeological site left to impress most visitors. Have lunch before spending the afternoon visiting the site. In the afternoon, transfer back to Hoi An by bus. Spend the rest of the day wandering around and enjoying the charm of Hoi An’s old quarter or relaxing at hotel.

Cycling distance for short option: 20km
Cycling distance for long option: 54 km