Three nature getaways near Hanoi for summer vacation

Besides coastal areas, nature retreats in Ninh Binh, Lang Son, and Hoa Binh are also great options for summer vacations.

VnExpress has selected nature destinations within 150 km of Hanoi, easily accessible for short trips. These locations offer accommodation, dining, and recreational activities for all ages, ideal for one- or two-night stays.

Dong Chuong Lake (Ninh Binh)

Distance from Hanoi: 120 km, travel time: about 2 hours

Green space around Dong Chuong Lake. Photo: Linh Huong

Located in Phu Loc and Phu Long communes, Nho Quan district, Dong Chuong Lake serves as a buffer zone for Cuc Phuong National Park. This natural freshwater lake spans approximately 45 hectares.

Dong Chuong Lake is an ecological destination, often referred to as "mini Da Lat" thanks to its beautiful natural scenery, lush pine forests, and fresh air. The 10 km road around the lake is perfect for morning cycling and jogging. The area also boasts Ao Troi, a small lake atop a pine hill, and the 40-meter-high Ba Tua Waterfall.

The open spaces along the lake are ideal for camping and BBQs. Green Pine Camp provides bungalow accommodations, kayaking, SUP, cycling, pet-friendly activities, mountain climbing, nature exploration, and various children's activities. Summer and autumn are the best times to visit Dong Chuong.

Visitors can bring their own camping gear and food or utilize homestay services. Photo: Hung Vi

Children's play areas. Photo: Green Pine Resort

A peaceful morning in Ba Khan. Photo: Bakhan Village

Swimming pool at Green Pine Resort. Photo: Green Pine Resort

Activities around Dong Chuong Lake. Photo: Green Pine Resort

Accommodations. Photo: Green Pine Resort

>> See more: Dong Chuong Lake Pine Hill

Huu Lung Grassland (Lang Son)

Distance from Hanoi: 125 km, travel time: about 2 hours and 15 minutes

Huu Lung Grassland, also known as Dong Lam Grassland, is located in Huu Lien commune, Huu Lung district. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers seeking tranquility. Bac Mo Dam, a scenic check-in spot, is about 2 km from the grassland.

The grassland offers green carpets, wide-open spaces, and a cool climate, especially during the dry season from December to July. During the rainy season, the grassland transforms into clear lakes, suitable for kayaking, rafting, or SUP. Activities include horseback riding and photos with horses, fishing, cave exploration, cycling through the grassland, museum visits, and experiencing local culture.

Visitors can bring their own tents or rent them on-site, enjoy BBQs, bonfires, and stargazing, or stay at nearby homestays, which also offer dining services. It's a suitable space for families, groups, or couples.

Kayaking at Dong Lam. Photo: Thu Trang

Relaxing by Lang Giang Stream, Yen Thinh. Photo: Thu Trang

Phu The Tree. Photo: Thu Trang

>> See more: Two days and one night in Huu Lung

Ba Khan Valley (Hoa Binh)

Distance from Hanoi: 130 km, travel time: about 2 hours and 45 minutes

Ba Khan (or Son Thuy), a commune at the foot of Thung Khe Pass in Tan Lac district, boasts diverse terrain with hills, villages, rivers, and lakes.

Ba Khan is characterized by year-round mist. In the early mornings, visitors can enjoy the peaceful and romantic scenery. Activities include boat trips on the lake, cycling and trekking to explore villages, visiting and swimming at Go Lao Waterfall, Ao Tien Cave and Luong Cave, camping by Ba Khan Lake, and savoring Muong cuisine. Visitors can also bathe in the Bo Am hot springs, about 20 km from Ba Khan's center.

Ba Khan Village resort features an infinity pool, a popular check-in spot. Sunrise and sunset are the best times for cloud hunting and photography. From here, visitors can admire the Da River Lake, often called the "Ha Long Bay on the mountain," with its majestic landscape.