Hue: Truoi Lake Serenity And Scenic Journey Over Hai Van Pass

Taking a tour that combines natural beauty, cultural sights, and breathtaking mountain views is a fantastic way to spend a day in Hue. This experience, offered by Hoi An Express Travel, promises a mix of tranquil lakes, vibrant fishing villages, and one of Vietnam’s most iconic mountain passes—all packed into an approximately 8.5-hour journey. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable day out, this tour offers plenty to enjoy.

One of the highlights we particularly appreciate is the Truoi Lake cruise, which offers a peaceful boat ride across calm waters to visit the Truc Lam Bach Ma Monastery—a peaceful spiritual spot surrounded by lush greenery. Plus, the scenic drive over Hai Van Pass provides some of Vietnam’s most stunning vistas, making it an ideal choice for travelers eager to see the country’s natural grandeur.

A potential consideration is the group size—limited to 15 travelers—which means you might want to book early if you prefer a more exclusive vibe. Also, the tour is designed for a broad audience, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and sharing transportation with others. It’s perfect for anyone interested in combining cultural exploration with scenic drives, especially if they enjoy guided experiences that are both informative and relaxed.

Overall, this tour will appeal most to travelers seeking a well-rounded day of natural beauty, culture, and striking mountain scenery without breaking the bank. It’s especially recommended for those who love photography, serene landscapes, and authentic local visits.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: From Truoi Lake to Hai Van Pass, expect vistas that will leave you breathless.
• Cultural stops: Visit the tranquil Truc Lam Bach Ma Monastery and explore vibrant fishing villages.
• Value for money: At $99, this full-day experience includes transportation, guide, meals, and entrance fees.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Vinh and Jason make the experience more engaging and informative.
• Comfort & convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Hue make logistics smooth, even for first-time visitors.
• Authentic experience: The tour focuses on real local life and untouched landscapes beyond typical tourist spots.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Truoi Lake and Truc Lam Bach Ma Monastery

The day begins with a scenic departure from Hue towards Truoi Village, which sits along the tranquil Truoi River. As your guide explains, the villagers mainly rely on cultivation and animal husbandry, giving you a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life. The highlight here is a boat cruise across Truoi Lake, a peaceful stretch of water that feels worlds away from the city’s bustle. The boat ride, which lasts about an hour, is serene and offers plenty of chances for photography—think calm waters, mountain backdrops, and lush forests.

Once at the Truc Lam Bach Ma Monastery, you’ll find a quiet sanctuary where many Buddhists come to meditate and reflect. Reviewers mention that the monastery feels like a “jewel amidst vast forests and mountains,” which really captures the feeling of peace and spiritual calm. The guide often shares insights about Buddhist practices and the monastery’s role in local life, making this stop both meditative and culturally enriching.

Lang Co Fishing Village

Next, your journey takes you to Lang Co, renowned for its long, white sandy beach and crystal-clear blue sea. The village is surprisingly lively, yet retains an authentic charm. The wide beaches are perfect for a leisurely walk, and the seaside eateries serve fresh seafood. One reviewer mentioned how they enjoyed seeing “people harvesting oysters at Lap An Lagoon,” highlighting the area’s ongoing traditional livelihoods. The village makes for fantastic photos, especially if you’re looking to capture Vietnam’s coastal beauty.

Lunch at Lap An Lagoon

After exploring Lang Co, a lunch stop at Lap An Lagoon provides a chance to relax and enjoy regional flavors. The lagoon, covering about 800 hectares, is a large brackish water body surrounded by Bach Ma mountain range, offering a stunning backdrop. The road winding along the mountain’s foot is described as feeling like a “shiny silk ribbon,” emphasizing the scenic drive that accompanies the meal. The lagoon’s beauty isn’t just visual—reviewers have noted the tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal setting for a laid-back lunch.

The Marvel of Hai Van Pass

The final and most iconic part of the tour is crossing the Hai Van Pass, Vietnam’s longest and highest mountain pass road, stretching 21 kilometers. The pass is known for its sweeping curves, dramatic landscape, and panoramic views. As one reviewer put it, the views from Hai Van Pass are “breathtaking,” with fog often adding an atmospheric touch that makes the scenery even more mysterious and beautiful.

Travelers typically stop at viewpoints along the pass, where they can take photos and simply soak in the expansive mountain vistas. The guide usually shares interesting facts about the history and engineering of the pass, enhancing the experience with context.

What to Expect During the Day

Transportation & Timing: The tour kicks off at 8:00 am with hotel pickup in Hue. Transportation is comfortable, typically a van that keeps the group small (max 15). The overall duration is about 8.5 hours, balancing sightseeing, travel time, and relaxation.

Guides & Insights: Guides like Vinh and Jason are praised for their professionalism and enthusiasm. They provide context about each stop, from the spiritual significance of the monastery to the stories behind the mountain pass. Their knowledge, combined with their friendly attitude, helps make the day more engaging.

Meals & Entrance Fees: Lunch at Lap An Lagoon is included, offering regional dishes that showcase local flavors. Entrance fees to the monastery and boat rides are covered, so there are no surprises.

What to Bring: Think sun protection—hat, sunscreen—as well as swimwear and a towel if you plan to dip your toes in the water at Lang Co. A camera is a must for capturing the stunning landscapes and memorable moments.

Authentic Experiences & Reviewer Insights

One reviewer remarked that their guide Vinh was “very professional and pleasant,” which added to their positive experience. Another mentioned that tour guide Jason was “very enthusiastic” and that the trip was filled with “beautiful scenery” and “interesting stops.” These comments highlight how much the guide’s attitude can elevate a sightseeing trip.

The boat ride across Truoi Lake and the visit to Truc Lam Bach Ma Monastery are more than just stops—they are moments of serenity and reflection, especially appreciated by travelers seeking a peaceful experience.

Several reviews note that the scenery from Hai Van Pass is “breathtaking,” often with fog adding an atmospheric layer that makes the views even more magical. The drive around Lap An Lagoon is described as “very beautiful,” emphasizing the scenic nature of the route.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-balanced blend of natural scenery, cultural sights, and scenic drives that showcases some of Hue’s most memorable landscapes. The inclusion of a peaceful lake cruise, a visit to a spiritual monastery, and a drive over Vietnam’s most famous mountain pass makes it a comprehensive day trip—especially appealing for those who want to see diverse aspects of central Vietnam in one outing.

For travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, authentic local experiences, and breathtaking views, this tour is a solid choice. The price point of $99 is reasonable considering it includes transportation, lunch, entrance fees, and guided commentary, making it an excellent value for a full-day adventure.

While the group size is limited, which enhances the experience, it still caters well to travelers who prefer guided tours rather than independent exploration. The tour’s emphasis on scenic beauty and genuine local life makes it suitable for photography lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those interested in culture.

This journey is ideal for anyone wanting a relaxing, scenic, and culturally enriching day in and around Hue, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and meaningful insights into Vietnam’s diverse landscape.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in Hue City Center, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The approximate duration is 8 hours and 30 minutes, from 8:00 am start to finish.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the monastery and boat ride are covered in the $99 price.

What should I bring?
Bring sun cream, a hat, flip flops or sandals, a swimsuit and towel if you want to swim, and a camera to capture the scenery.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 0-5 are free, and those aged 6-10 get 50% off. It’s suitable for most travelers, but consider the full-day schedule.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund if canceled within this window.

This tour combines a beautiful mix of scenic drives, cultural sites, and tranquil waters, making it perfect for travelers seeking a diverse and memorable day in central Vietnam. It’s especially good for those who value expert guides and authentic experiences, all at a reasonable price.