Have you always dreamed of wandering through green rice terraces, raising a glass with locals in atmospheric villages, and above all, deciding for yourself how far you cycle and when you take a break? Then this individual cycling holiday in Vietnam is exactly what you are looking for! In 19 days, you will explore the purest side of Northern Vietnam, with a new surprise in views, flavours, and encounters every day. And the good news? With an e-mountain bike, a regular mountain bike, or your own gravel bike, you decide for yourself how intense you make the adventure.
Good to know: This trip is just a proposal for what your journey through Northern Vietnam could look like. We can always adjust the route, the number of rest days, and the accommodations to your personal wishes or cycling level. This way, this individual cycling holiday in Vietnam is truly tailor-made.
Whether you are a seasoned mountain goat or have never conquered a mountain pass, your pace is central. You set off individually with a guide, and your luggage is transported. Because of this, you do not have to conform to a fixed group schedule. The result? Maximum enjoyment, exactly as you want it, on this unforgettable individual cycling holiday in Vietnam.
You begin your 19-day journey in Hanoi, a capital where scooter horns and street food aromas come together in one big cultural mix. But don’t worry: you will soon trade the hustle and bustle for rice fields, colourful village markets, and mountain passes stretching to the horizon. This way, you are presented with the full diversity of Northern Vietnam during your individual cycling holiday in Vietnam.
At CvA travel, we do not believe in “one size fits all”. Especially not with a physical activity like cycling. Everyone has a different fitness level, different wishes, and a different way of celebrating their holiday. That is why this 19-day individual cycling holiday in Vietnam can be completely tailor-made. Before you depart, we will have extensive contact. We will discuss what you are used to in terms of cycling distances. Do you cycle 80 kilometres on your racing bike every Sunday at home, or are you a recreational cyclist who enjoys 30 kilometres a day with many stops? Based on your profile, we select the right routes and daily distances.
The right bike is essential for your enjoyment. The roads in Northern Vietnam are diverse, from tarmac to gravel and sandy paths. That is why we offer a wide range of quality bikes. Are you a sporty cyclist who likes to set a pace but also wants to be able to go off-road? Then the gravel bike is an excellent choice. For rougher paths and more comfort and grip, we recommend a good mountain bike (hardtail or full suspension). And do you want to go into the mountains, but dread the heavy climbs? Then the E-MTB (electric mountain bike) is the perfect solution. With this, you can conquer every mountain pass with a smile and have energy left over in the evening to explore the village. We ensure the bike is perfectly adjusted to your height.
A 19-day trip is intensive. It is therefore important to maintain balance. Because the trip is completely tailor-made, you determine the daily schedule. Are you an early bird who likes to be on the pedals at sunrise to beat the heat? Fine. Do you prefer a lie-in and starting after an extensive breakfast? Also fine. In addition, we plan rest days in places that you find interesting. Perhaps you want to stay an extra day in Sapa for walking, or rather spend a day relaxing by a pool in an eco-lodge in Mai Chau. We structure the trip in such a way that heavy cycling days are alternated with lighter days or culture days, so that you stay fit until the very last day.
Imagine: a tailor-made cycling trip through the breathtaking north of Vietnam, completely tailored to your wishes and preferences. With us, you decide the departure date yourself; the trip is on request and will be put together especially for you. Our proposed day-to-day programme serves as inspiration for an unforgettable experience, packed with highlights. Would you rather make the trip shorter or longer, schedule extra rest days, visit a special location, add different hotels (less luxurious), or include a homestay? Anything is possible.
Would you like to follow the proposed programme as described? You can! This programme can be booked for the indicated price. Together we will create a unique cycling holiday that perfectly matches your wishes, so you can discover the authentic Vietnam your way.
During this 19-day individual cycling trip, you will discover a fascinating landscape full of mountains, rice terraces, and authentic villages. Do you already have experience with mountainous terrain? Then this tour is a wonderful opportunity to push your limits with a gravel or mountain bike. Not an experienced climber? No problem! With an e-bike, this trip becomes accessible to everyone.
What can you expect? A mix of breathtaking nature, fascinating culture, and unforgettable encounters with the local population. Be surprised by the beauty of Northern Vietnam and experience the freedom of an individual cycling trip. Curious? Read the day-to-day description below.
Welcome to the beating heart of the north! After customs and a drive through the city, you will land in the luxurious Peridot Grand Hotel. Take some time to acclimatise. Hanoi is hectic but bursting with charm. Enjoy the contrast between ancient temples and ultra-modern shops; it is a foretaste of the versatility that awaits you in the coming days.
Today you will head out without your bike for a little while. The Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda, the Ho Chi Minh Complex, and the Temple of Literature are on your to-do list. In the evening, typical Vietnamese specialities entice you, as well as a visit to Train Street, where you can see the train passing by from very close up.
Now the adventure truly begins. After the transfer to Son Tay, you get on your bike. The route is rolling and offers a nice warm-up. You follow the banks of the Red River, pass Phu Tho, and end in Yen Bai. This city is known for its intensely green rice terraces and the exuberant greetings from the locals, of course.
Brace yourself, because today will be tough. Depending on your preferred distance, you start (a maximum of) 90 kilometres before Sa Pa. You cycle along the Red River and risk a glance across the Chinese border. The highlight, “literally”, is the 35-kilometre-long Tram Ton Pass, the highest pass in the country, also called the “Gate to Heaven”. Tough, but absolutely worth it.
Want to stretch your legs for a bit or let them rest? You choose. You can treat yourself to a massage, cycle through Ta Van and Lao Chai, or climb Mount Fansipan by cable car (and potentially climb another 600 steps afterwards to the summit). The views are the ultimate reward in any case.
Via Lao Cai (close to the Chinese border) and the colourful market of Coc Ly, you head to Bac Ha. There, a final climb of 15 kilometres awaits, with plum trees and panoramas that will leave you in awe. Be prepared, because every corner provides new photo opportunities.
Today you dive into the remote region around Xin Man and Hoang Su Phi. Expect few tourists, but rather hospitable mountain tribes who welcome you with a broad smile. The unpaved roads make for hard graft, but the reward is great: at the end of the day, a comfortable place awaits where you can let all the impressions sink in.
Via mountain passes with poetic names like “Heaven Gate 2”, you cycle to the city of Ha Giang. Cliffs, forests, rivers—you name it, you will come across it all. The descent eventually leads you to vast maize and rice fields. There you can enjoy that typical Vietnamese hospitality, and a well-deserved cold drink.
Get some rest in these beautiful surroundings or go for a walk through the Tay Con Linh mountains instead. You can also explore the local markets or take a look at a tea plantation. As always during this individual cycling holiday in Vietnam, the choice is yours.
After cycling a bit through the rice terraces and limestone formations, you can climb “Heaven Gate 1”. The winding road to the Tam Son valley and the famous Twin Hills is no easy feat, but it is certainly beautiful. Fortunately, the last 15 kilometres are downhill towards Yen Minh, where you end the day among the traditional houses of the mountain tribes.
Climbing, descending, and shouting “wow!” very often, once again. You ride across the Dong Van plateau, descend with spectacular hairpin bends, and end in Meo Vac. If you still have energy left, you can explore the area, but nothing is obligatory!
Have a nice lie-in or stroll across the Sunday market, where you are surrounded by brightly coloured clothing, spices, and even cattle trading. A day full of culture, tasty snacks, and a relaxed atmosphere. Your legs have some rest today.
Time to cover some kilometres through rugged terrain and valleys. The first 5 kilometres are immediately tough, but after that, you take a breathtaking descent. Brave winding roads and let yourself be overwhelmed by the rock formations. Bao Lac welcomes you at the end of the ride.
Do you fancy a steep 5-kilometre climb with 14 hairpin bends? Then you have come to the right place. Don’t dare to do it? No problem, you can also take a transfer. Either way, the panoramic views at the top of the Khau Coc Cha pass are unforgettable. In your homestay, you then sit down for a cosy evening meal featuring fresh regional products.
You cycle over singletracks along the Quay Son River. Final destination: the Ban Gioc waterfall, which lies half in Vietnam, half in China. An imposing natural phenomenon that acts as a dividing line and provides a beautiful backdrop for your selfies.
Do you choose to pedal hard one more time or do you go for a transfer? Either way, you end up in Ba Be, an area full of lakes, forests, and valleys. In your jungle lodge, you can enjoy the peace and quiet and the chance to fully recharge.
Sail across the lake, visit the Dau Dang waterfall, and get lost in the dark Ngoi caves. Afterwards, you can swim, sunbathe, or catch another walking route. You are in control, because that is the beauty of this individual cycling holiday in Vietnam.
You ride back to civilisation. One more time you look out over the vast nature, before the city of Thai Nguyen comes into view. Here you will visit the Museum of Cultures. In the evening, you will enjoy a delicious dinner in a local restaurant.
Unfortunately, the adventure is over. Before you board the plane, you scroll through your photos once more and realise how much you have experienced. One thing is certain: you are taking a backpack full of memories home with you.
Do you want to experience this trip exactly as we have put it together? You can! But of course, there is always room for adjustments. Perhaps you want to add an extra rest day, choose a different accommodation, or add an extra stage? No problem, we are happy to adapt the trip to your wishes. After your tour through Northern Vietnam, you will not only have amazing stories, but also a renewed perspective on what travelling can truly mean. Whether you love climbing until your legs burn or prefer to cycle quietly past vast rice fields, you decide it all yourself.
Curious how we can make your individual cycling holiday in Vietnam completely tailor-made? Contact us or request a quote. We will arrange everything, so all you have to do is get on your bike!
Just as enthusiastic about this cycling trip as we are? See below what is included and what is excluded in this example trip.
Sometimes you sleep in a five-star hotel with a rooftop bar, sometimes in an authentic homestay. This way, you alternate comfort with real culture. Wherever you settle down: you are guaranteed special experiences, because we select accommodations with a story and a warm welcome.
Important to know: In Vietnam, many locals prefer firm mattresses, as they consider this healthy. Keep this in mind during your trip in Vietnam. During this cycling trip, you will visit less touristy areas, which means the choice of accommodations is limited, sometimes meaning the comfort is simpler. But it is precisely there that you experience the authentic Vietnam, which only adds to the charm of the trip.
Your trip starts in style with a stay in the luxurious 5-star Peridot Grand Hotel, a quiet oasis right in the bustling heart of Hanoi. This hotel offers an ideal start to your cycling adventure, with facilities such as a spa, jacuzzi, steam room, and wonderful massages for ultimate relaxation. In the evening, enjoy a panoramic view of the city in the stylish sky bar, where you can take in your first impressions of Vietnam whilst enjoying a drink.
✔️ Luxurious accommodations
✔️ Roof terrace with bar
✔️ Perfect starting location for your trip
In the mountainous region of Sa Pa, you will stay in an atmospheric and small-scale bed & breakfast, also known as a hidden paradise. Here you will find an oasis of peace, with a beautiful garden where you can relax after a day full of exertion. What makes this place extra special is the culinary aspect. The owner is an excellent cook who prepares Vietnamese specialities with passion. Furthermore, the friendly staff are happy to help you with tips on the most beautiful activities in the area.
✔️ Cosy and small-scale stay
✔️ Extensive and tasty breakfast
✔️ Hospitality at its best
One of the highlights of this trip is an overnight stay in a private bungalow in Hoang Su Phi. Here you wake up to a breathtaking view of mountain peaks, terraced rice fields, and the Tay Con Linh mountain range. This lodge stands for pure relaxation. Treat yourself to a traditional herbal bath experience or a relaxing massage. In addition, there are plenty of walking opportunities in the area, ideal for those who also want to discover nature on foot.
✔️ View of mountains and rice fields
✔️ Wellness facilities available
✔️ Quiet and nature-rich environment
The TVpalm Ecolodge is a beautiful eco-accommodation surrounded by nature. Here you hear nothing but the sounds of birds and babbling brooks. Take a dip in the swimming pool with a panoramic view or let your taste buds be surprised by the delicious Vietnamese dishes that are carefully prepared here. This is the place to completely unwind and enjoy the simplicity and beauty of Vietnam.
✔️ Sustainable and eco-friendly lodge
✔️ Authentic Vietnamese cuisine
✔️ Swimming pool with a panoramic view
This lodge is located high above the Mã Pí Lèng pass and offers a spectacular panoramic view of the deep canyon and green valleys below. The lodge is located slightly higher up the mountain, so you have to make a short but steep climb from the road. It is a stay that not only offers peace and comfort, but also fully immerses you in the beauty of the Ha Giang region.
✔️ Excellent food
✔️ Spectacular view
✔️ Simple and clean rooms with a great view from the bed
Right in the middle of the green jungle of Ba Be National Park lies Ba Be Jungle Houses, an atmospheric and comfortable accommodation where nature and hospitality come together. This 4-star hotel offers everything you need for a relaxing and adventurous holiday: spacious rooms, a beautiful view, and a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant serves tasty Vietnamese and international dishes in an atmospheric setting. In the evenings, it gets extra cosy with good food, pleasant conversations, and a glass of “happy water”, the local rice wine that should not be missing from any evening.
✔️ Swimming pool available
✔️ Cosy atmosphere and hospitality
✔️ Good base for excursions
Located in the picturesque landscape of Bắc Hà, La Beauté Bắc Hà offers an authentic and atmospheric experience surrounded by nature. This charming homestay is the perfect place to relax and experience local life up close. With a beautiful terrace, an atmospheric interior, and warm hospitality, this place immediately feels like a home away from home. Some rooms have a shared bathroom with a bidet, but are always equipped with free toiletries, a hairdryer, and slippers for extra comfort.
✔️ Beautiful view of the countryside
✔️ Atmospheric interior with an eye for detail
✔️ Healthy and varied breakfast
A cycling holiday through Northern Vietnam is much more than just an active trip; it is a deep dive into a fascinating culture, overwhelming nature, and heartwarming hospitality. Below are five reasons why this region is an unforgettable destination:
Ultimate hospitality: As soon as you ride into a village or city, you are greeted with a genuine smile and an enthusiastic “Xin chào!”. The locals are curious and friendly, and you immediately feel welcome. Children wave from the side of the road and villagers sometimes even invite you in for a cup of tea. Vietnam is known for its open and hospitable culture, and nowhere do you feel that better than in the north.
A cuisine full of surprises: Whether you are a lover of street food or prefer to dine in atmospheric restaurants, Northern Vietnam offers a culinary journey of discovery. Enjoy a steaming bowl of Phở, taste a crispy Bánh Mì filled with fresh herbs and meat, or eat a delicious Gỏi cuốn (fresh spring roll). Every meal is an explosion of flavours, and the diversity of dishes ensures that you taste something new every day.
Breathtaking landscapes: From the misty mountains in Sapa to the green rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai and the mysterious caves in Ha Giang, Northern Vietnam has a landscape that is constantly changing. You cycle along winding roads with views of vast valleys, cross rivers, and stop along the way at breathtaking viewpoints. Boredom? That word does not exist here.
Colourful traditions and cultures: Northern Vietnam is home to many ethnic minorities, such as the H’mong, Dao, and Tay. Everywhere you go, you will meet people in traditional dress, colourful markets full of handmade fabrics, and ancient temples where rituals are still performed. By travelling here, you get a unique glimpse into a world that is still strongly connected to its roots and traditions.
A country full of history and stories: Vietnam has a rich and turbulent history, from ancient dynasties and French colonial influences to the Vietnam War. In cities like Hanoi, you feel the energy of a country that is constantly developing, while in the countryside you can still see traces of traditional ways of life. Wherever you go, there are stories to discover, whether it is a centuries-old village or a lively city full of contrasts.
Itching to set off on an extraordinary ride? Can’t wait to hop on the saddle and explore your dream destination at your own pace? Take a look at all our cycling journeys below – or get in touch to request a tailor-made adventure designed just for you.
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