Ninh Binh, around 90 kms south of Hanoi is a perfect place for relaxed cycling.
There are lovely safe country lanes running through villages and dramatic karts limestone mountain scenery.
Hoa Lu was the 10th century capital of Vietnam's Dinh and Le dynasties. Ly Thai To moved the capital to Hanoi in 1010. two 17th century temples mark out the location of the former capital. There are few other remains and information at the site is virtually non-existent.
The setting for the temple is stunning.
Boating at Tam Coc. There are now 3 boat options - Tam Coc, Trang An and the less popular but still very nice Thung Nang.
The Trang An boat trip features many longer and more impressive caves - the surrounding countryside is perhaps less impressive and Trang An is fast attracting the coach tours from Hanoi.
Mountain goat meat is the local specialty.
Bich Dong Pagoda is steeped in legend. Unfortunately ongoing renovations and reconstruction have drained it of much of its atmosphere.
It's quite a climb but the views are well worth it.
The timber interior is like a huge Buddhist pagoda colliding with a Catholic church.
Rusty Compass listings are always independent. We list the places we think are worth knowing about. Our Featured Listings allow a small selection of businesses already recommended by us, to pay a fee for a place at the top of our list. That’s it. Featured Listings have no impact on reviews, or on the curation and independence of our lists.
