The French called Tam Dao the ‘Silver Waterfall’ when they established their summer retreat here in the early 20th century. Today, it lures Western and Vietnamese tourists alike with its cool climate and tropical forests.
There isn’t much in the way of organized activities here however, and most visitors are just looking to escape the heat and hustle of Hanoi. Hiking and bird-watching are both popular activities, especially in Tam Dao National Park.
While the French built a spread of colonial villas, most of these were destroyed the war with the French in the 1950s. The crumbling buildings were replaced by bloc-style soviet architecture in the coming decades, though an increase in tourism is paving the way for restoration projects.
The elevation in this region is 3,000 feet and up, and the temperature is comfortable in every season. If you visit during December or January, be prepared for surprisingly cool evenings and pack accordingly.
Hikes into the forest can be booked at the hill station. There’s a waterfall that can be visited as part of a 30 minute walk. Tour agencies also offer daylong hikes deep into the national park where you may catch sight of the elusive langur, an endangered primate.
Getting There & Away
Day-trippers pour in from Hanoi on the weekends, and the drive only takes 2 hours. If you’re up for a road trip, hire a motorbike in Hanoi and prepare for beautiful scenery. You can also take the bus from Hanoi to Vinh Yen (1 hour) where you’ll have to arrange your own transportation for the final 15 miles. Taxis and tourist transport services are widely available. The nearest airport is in Hanoi, a major gateway into and out of the country.