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Exploring the Forests and Seas of Binh Lieu and Mong Cai: A Three-Day Journey

Imagine a journey where you begin your day on a windswept mountain peak, following a narrow trail that curves along the spine of a sleeping dragon, your eyes embracing an endless panorama of misty borderlands. Just one day later, you stand at the easternmost point of Vietnam, greeting the nation’s first sunrise on a stretch of powdery white sand that marks the beginning of the country’s shape. Binh Lieu and Mong Cai are not two separate destinations, but rather one inspiring adventure that unites the majestic mountains of Binh Lieu with the tranquil coastal charm of Mong Cai. Together, they form a captivating exploration of Quang Ninh’s northeastern edge, a perfect blend of highland grandeur and seaside serenity.

The Ideal Time to Visit
Each season in Binh Lieu and Mong Cai offers a distinct charm and a unique experience. In the bright, lively days of August, Binh Lieu welcomes visitors with lush green terraced fields and the cascading Khe Van waterfall, while Mong Cai invites you to its golden beaches and clear waters at Tra Co. However, the most enchanting time to visit Binh Lieu is in autumn, from late October to November, when the hills are blanketed with endless white reeds and the terraced rice fields turn golden under the sunlight. This is when the landscape transforms into a breathtaking painting of nature’s beauty. Spring brings a different kind of joy, as local festivals such as Soong Co and Kieng Gio fill the air with music, dance, and vibrant cultural colors.

Getting There
The journey to Binh Lieu and Mong Cai is an experience in itself, taking you along some of the most scenic routes in northeastern Vietnam. Traveling by car or motorbike is the best way to fully enjoy the changing landscapes. From Hanoi, you can take the Hanoi – Hai Phong – Ha Long – Van Don Expressway, then follow National Highway 18 through Cam Pha and Tien Yen before turning toward Binh Lieu. This route offers complete freedom to explore and conquer winding mountain roads, including the iconic border patrol route, often regarded as one of the most beautiful in northern Vietnam. For those who prefer public transportation, several bus lines from My Dinh Station travel directly to Mong Cai, where you can rent a motorbike to explore Binh Lieu from the coast inward.

Where to Stay
Choosing the right place to stay is key to experiencing the spirit of this region. In Binh Lieu, homestays run by Dao and Tay families in villages like Song Mooc or Dong Van offer a truly authentic experience. Spending the night in a rustic wooden home, sharing a warm dinner of local specialties, and listening to stories of mountain life will leave lasting impressions. As you travel toward Mong Cai, you will find a wider range of accommodations. Modern hotels in the city center are convenient for shopping and dining, while beachfront hotels and guesthouses in Tra Co offer peaceful, romantic settings where the sound of waves greets you each morning.

Day 1: Conquering the “Dinosaur Spine”
Your adventure truly begins when you set foot on Binh Lieu’s legendary border patrol road. After checking in at your homestay, spend the afternoon taking on the region’s most thrilling challenge: the “Dinosaur Spine.” This poetic name refers to the narrow concrete trail leading to milestone 1305, winding along mountain ridges with deep valleys on both sides. Each step brings you closer to the wind-swept freedom of the borderland, with panoramic views stretching across both Vietnam and its neighboring country. Reaching the top and touching the border milestone is a proud and unforgettable moment. As the sun sets and paints the mountains gold, return to your homestay for a cozy dinner featuring local mountain delicacies such as grilled chicken, stream fish, and colorful sticky rice - a perfect ending to a day filled with awe and emotion.

Day 2: From the Mountains to the Sea
After a peaceful night amid the quiet of the mountains, the second day takes you deeper into the cultural and natural heart of Binh Lieu before descending toward the sea. In the morning, visit Khe Van Waterfall, a magnificent three-tier cascade surrounded by lush greenery, or wander through the local morning market - a vibrant gathering of Dao, Tay, and San Chi ethnic groups where colorful brocades and handmade crafts reflect the region’s heritage.

After lunch, bid farewell to the mountains and begin the journey to Mong Cai. The route from Binh Lieu to the coast reveals dramatic shifts in scenery, from steep mountain passes to wide coastal plains. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the evening exploring the lively rhythm of a border city. Stroll around the Mong Cai International Border Gate, watch the bustling trade activities, or visit the central market before enjoying a seafood dinner that captures the taste of the sea.

Day 3: Sunrise at Sa Vi Cape - A Greeting from the Nation’s Edge
The final day of your journey offers a moment of reflection and pride. Wake early and head to Sa Vi Cape in Tra Co Ward to witness the sunrise at Vietnam’s easternmost point. As the first rays of sunlight rise from the sea, you will feel a deep connection to the land and a sense of national pride. After this moving moment, take a leisurely walk along Tra Co Beach, one of Vietnam’s longest and most pristine beaches, where smooth white sands meet rows of whispering casuarina trees. Before leaving, visit the 140-year-old Tra Co Church, a peaceful architectural gem that adds to the charm of this coastal town. A seafood lunch featuring Tra Co’s local specialties will be the perfect conclusion to your journey before returning home.

Flavors You Cannot Miss
No journey is complete without tasting the local cuisine. In Binh Lieu, start with handmade stir-fried pho noodles, soft yet chewy, cooked with local pork and fresh greens. The colorful seven-hued sticky rice, a specialty of the Nung people, is both delicious and symbolic of their vibrant culture. Don’t miss the famous Tien Yen chicken, raised naturally on the hills and prized for its golden skin and rich flavor. In Mong Cai, a feast of seafood awaits. Try the sweet, firm Tra Co blue crab, the uniquely shaped but tender mantis shrimp, and the flavorful horseshoe crab dishes. To end your meal on a high note, enjoy a plate of “bánh gật gù,” a simple yet irresistible local rice roll served with fragrant chicken fat and fried shallots.

This three-day journey through Binh Lieu and Mong Cai is more than a trip, it is an exploration of Vietnam’s borderlands, where mountains and seas meet, and where every step tells a story of nature, culture, and pride.