Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Pu Luong is a magnificent and gorgeous nature reserve located 145 kilometers (4 hours by car) southwest of Hanoi.
Pu Luong has mountains and plenty of terraced rice fields. You can stay at a homestay in a traditional stilt house or a bungalow.
Overnight in a homestay or somewhere more comfortable.
When night falls, you have the option of staying at a homestay in one of the traditional stilt huts or in a bungalow/villa with access to a communal pool.
We tried both and were pleased with the results, so it is up to you to decide which is most comfortable for you.
Taste and pleasure determine whether or not food is good. When we initially stayed at the homestay, our local hosts prepared delicious local cuisine.
The other location was a little more posh, so not as real, but it will be easier to make meal requests here if you are traveling with children.
Cycling & hiking in Pu Luong
The film depicts our most recent journey to Pu Luong, when we both went through the rice fields and visited little villages where we met friendly inhabitants who smiled, waved, or approached us.
Pu Luong is for the entire family.
Pu Luong offers both short and long hikes. However, there is also something for those who are willing to take on a slightly more difficult excursion or hike. Regardless of your interests, the natural beauty and perspective of the mountains and valleys are breathtaking. The video should speak for itself. Cycling is another option for getting about the area.
In contrast to Mai Chau, which you may read about here, Mai Chau is more mountain than valley. A bike ride is strongly suggested; it went up and down, with stops along the way to enjoy the view and a water break.
The bike trip is not appropriate for young children. They must be able to ride an adult bike and understand that it moves both up and down. View the motorcycles in the video.
The inhabitants are warm and welcoming. Expect a warm welcome and plenty of smiles on your journey to Pu Luong.