Quang Binh, located on the North Central Coast of Vietnam, is a dream destination for cyclists. Here, cyclists can ride along stunning coastal roads in the morning, scenic countryside at noon, and thrilling mountain routes later in the afternoon. Whether you’re a pro or a starter, cycling in Quang Binh has something for you.
Read on for top routes, essential gear, and weather tips.
Why cycling in Quang Binh?
Grab a bike and roll on—here are the top reasons why Quang Binh is one of the best places for cycling in Vietnam:
1. Coastal and countryside roads
Cycling in Quang Binh offers a mix of scenic coastal and countryside roads, making it an excellent cycling destination for all levels. The coastal routes along Nhat Le Beach provide breathtaking ocean views and a refreshing sea breeze, while the countryside roads lead through lush rice paddies, peaceful villages, and rolling hills.
Cyclists can enjoy flat, smooth roads for leisurely rides or tackle more challenging terrains towards Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park. The variety of landscapes ensures a diverse and enjoyable experience, whether you’re looking for a relaxing ride along the coast or an adventurous journey through the rural heartland.
2. Karst landscapes
One of Quang Binh’s most striking features is its dramatic karst mountains, which create a stunning backdrop for cyclists. Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its towering limestone formations, dense forests, and impressive caves, the best of which is Son Doong, the largest cave in the world.
As you’re cycling in Quang Binh, you’re treated to breathtaking views of jagged peaks, lush valleys, and winding rivers. The otherworldly landscape makes every journey feel like an adventure, with scenic spots perfect for rest breaks and photography. Riding through this natural wonderland adds an element of awe to any cycling tour.
3. Historic and cultural landmarks
Rich history and culture make cycling in Quang Binh great for those who love to explore. Riders can stop at Quang Binh Gate, an ancient city gate, or visit Tam Toa Church, a war relic that symbolizes resilience. Nearby, Mother Suot Monument honors a heroic woman who ferried soldiers and supplies across the river during the war.
Up north, Quang Phu housed a vital coastal artillery site with bunkers and gun emplacements defending Quang Binh. Down south, Hoang Phuc Pagoda, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Central Vietnam, provides a peaceful resting spot. These landmarks also provide great opportunities to take breaks and meet locals.
4. Inclusive cyclist communities
Quang Binh’s cycling scene is friendly and inclusive, making it easy for both beginners and experienced riders to feel welcome. Local cycling groups and rental shops provide guidance, route recommendations, and well-maintained bicycles. Many homestays and hotels also cater to cyclists, offering bike rental and repair services.
Whether you’re a solo traveler—local or expat, a family, or a cycling enthusiast, you’ll find a supportive cyclist community ready to help in Quang Binh. Bike rentals are more common in Dong Hoi and other major tourist areas, with prices ranging from 50,000 to 250,000 VND per day, including options for specialized bikes.
Best cycling routes in Quang Binh
Quang Binh offers diverse cycling routes with different distances, elevations, and difficulty levels, providing fantastic experiences for all cycling enthusiasts.
1. Dong Hoi Route
- Itinerary: Quang Binh Gate – Dai Giac Pagoda – Tam Toa Church – Ly Thanh Tong Street – Truong Phap Street – Quang Phu Sand Dunes – Nhat Le Beach – Mother Suot Monument – Quang Binh Gate
- Distance: 28 km
- Duration: 2 hours
- Elevation: Mostly flat, gentle slopes
- Difficulty: Easy (City roads – countryside – coastal paths)
The Dong Hoi Route is a 28 km loop that blends history, culture, and coastal beauty, making it a great choice for cycling in Quang Binh. This easy ride takes about 2 hours, covering mostly flat terrain along city roads with gentle slopes on countryside paths.
Starting at Quang Binh Gate in Dong Hoi City, a historic landmark symbolizing the province’s past, cyclists head toward Dai Giac Pagoda, a peaceful Buddhist temple perfect for a quick check-in. Riders then visit Tam Toa Church before continuing.
The route then follows Truong Phap Road, leading back down south to the Quang Phu Sand Dunes, where golden sands contrast beautifully with the blue sky. From there, cyclists cruise along Nhat Le Beach, enjoying refreshing sea breezes before stopping at the Mother Suot Monument. The loop concludes back at Quang Binh Gate.
2. Phong Nha Route
- Itinerary: Chay Lap Farmstay – Chay River Dark Cave – Mooc Spring – Ozo Park – Phong Nha Botanic Garden – Phong Nha Tourism Center – Xuan Son Bridge – Km0 HCM Khe Gat – Chay Lap Farmstay
- Distance: 55 km
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Elevation: Rolling hills, moderate climbs, mixed surfaces
- Difficulty: Moderate (Countryside – mountain routes)
The Phong Nha Route is a 55 km loop that offers cyclists a mix of countryside roads, mountain climbs, and breathtaking karst landscapes. Taking about 3.5 hours, this moderate-level ride features rolling hills, mixed surfaces, and a few challenging climbs, making it ideal for those looking for an adventurous yet manageable cycling tour.
Starting at Chay Lap Farmstay, cyclists head toward Ozo Park, an eco-tourism site known for its tree-top adventure courses. From there, the route leads to the Phong Nha Tourism Center, where travelers can arrange tours to explore the surrounding area.
Cyclists then ride to Km0 HCM Khe Gat, a historical landmark on the Ho Chi Minh Highway, before looping back to Chay Lap Farmstay. This route is the second most intense on the list for cycling in Quang Binh, combining natural beauty and history.
3. Tan Hoa Route
- Itinerary: Tu Lan Lodge – Thuong Hamlet – Co Liem Hamlet – Yen Lac Hamlet – Kim Bang Hamlet – Hamlet 327 – Yen Tho Hamlet – Tu Lan Lodge
- Distance: 20 km
- Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Elevation: Rolling hills, moderate climbs, mixed surfaces
- Difficulty: Easy (Countryside – mountain routes)
The Tan Hoa Route is a 20 km loop that takes cyclists on a peaceful journey through the charming rural hamlets of Quang Binh. This easy ride, lasting just over an hour, features rolling hills, gentle climbs, and mixed surfaces, making it suitable for beginners.
Starting at Tu Lan Lodge, a cozy retreat near the famous Tu Lan Cave System, cyclists pedal through Thuong Hamlet, where traditional wooden houses and rice paddies create a picturesque setting. The route continues through Co Liem and Yen Lac Hamlets, where riders can experience the daily life of local farmers.
Kim Bang and Hamlet 327 offer scenic mountain views with winding roads through the countryside. The ride concludes at Yen Tho Hamlet before returning to Tu Lan Lodge—just enough for a refreshing, immersive tour of cycling in Quang Binh.
4. Le Thuy Route
- Itinerary: Quang Binh Gate – Wind Power Field – Ngu Thuy Bac – Le Thuy Beach – DT16 – Hoang Phuc Pagoda – Kien Giang Bridge – Dong Chau Khe Nuoc Trong Nature Reserve – QL15 – Bang Onsen Spa Resort
- Distance: 64 km
- Duration: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Elevation: Mostly flat, gentle slopes, moderate climbs, mixed surfaces
- Difficulty: Low-advanced (City roads – coastal paths – countryside – mountain routes)
The Le Thuy Route is the longest and most intense route for cycling in Quang Binh, covering 64 km of diverse terrain. This ride takes 3 hours and 45 minutes and features a mix of city roads, coastal paths, countryside trails, and mountain routes.
Starting at Quang Binh Gate, cyclists head towards the Wind Power Field, where towering wind turbines create a stunning landscape. The route then follows the coast to Ngu Thuy Bac and Le Thuy Beach. After having a quick stop, riders continue inland along DT16 to Hoang Phuc Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s oldest pagodas, before crossing the Kien Giang Bridge into the lush Dong Chau Khe Nuoc Trong Nature Reserve.
The ride concludes at Bang Onsen Spa & Resort, a perfect place to relax and recover in natural hot springs after an exhilarating journey through Quang Binh.
Bike rentals in Quang Binh
Quang Binh offers various bike rental options, from basic city bikes to mountain and electric bikes, ensuring you’ve got the perfect gear to conquer any route.
1. Dong Hoi
Dong Hoi City offers plenty of bike rental options, making it easy for cyclists to find a suitable ride. Many hotels and resorts provide complimentary bicycles for guests as part of their eco-friendly initiatives. Besides, numerous bike shops around the city rent out bicycles, with basic urban models available for around 50,000 VND per day.
Yet, these standard bikes are more suitable for short city rides rather than long-distance cycling. For those looking to explore more challenging routes, mountain bikes are available but harder to find, typically costing around 250,000 VND per day.
2. Phong Nha
In Phong Nha, Chay Lap Farmstay is one of the few places offering bike rentals. Guests staying at the farmstay receive complimentary basic bicycles, while high-performance bikes are available for rent. Mountain bikes cost 200,000 VND per 8 hours, and electric sport bikes cost 250,000 VND per 8 hours (brand WiiBIKE).
A 4-hour rental option is also available at a lower price (120,000 and 150,000 VND, respectively), but for longer rides, an 8-hour rental is more practical.
3. Tan Hoa
Tu Lan Lodge is likely the only place offering bike rentals in Tan Hoa. Guests staying at the lodge receive complimentary basic bicycles, which, although not ideal for long rides, are sufficient for the relatively easy 20 km Tan Hoa Route.
Best time for cycling in Quang Binh
Understanding Quang Binh’s weather patterns is essential for planning a successful cycling trip. The province experiences a tropical monsoon climate characterized by two distinct seasons. From April to August, temperatures can exceed 35°C (95°F), making mid-day cycling challenging due to intense heat and humidity.
September to March marks the rainy season, bringing frequent downpours and occasional flooding, especially from October to November. The best time for cycling in Quang Binh is from December to February, when temperatures range from 18–25°C (64–77°F), with lower humidity and clearer skies, ensuring a comfortable ride.
Cyclists should plan their trips according to the weather conditions. If traveling in the summer, it’s advisable to cycle early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat. During the rainy season, waterproof gear is recommended. Take caution on wet or muddy roads, as they can become slippery and increase the risk of accidents.
What to bring when cycling
Packing the right gear for a cycling tour ensures safety, comfort, and a smooth ride. Here are the essential items you should bring before you go cycling in Quang Binh:
- Helmet: A well-fitted helmet is crucial for protecting your head in case of a fall or accident, reducing the risk of serious injury.
- Sunglasses: They protect your eyes from harsh sunlight, dust, wind, and insects, improving visibility and reducing eye strain.
- Cycling shoes: Proper shoes with stiff soles enhance pedaling efficiency and reduce foot fatigue, especially for long-distance rides.
- Panniers: These saddle-mounted bags allow you to carry essential gear, food, and clothing without straining your back with a backpack.
- Repair kit: A kit with tire levers, patches, a spare tube, a pump, and a multi-tool helps you fix common bike issues and avoid getting stranded.
- Lights and reflectors: Front and rear lights improve visibility in low-light conditions, while reflectors make you more noticeable to drivers.
- Navigation tools: A GPS device, cycling computer, or offline maps on your phone ensure you stay on the right route and avoid getting lost.
- First aid kit: Basic medical supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers help you treat minor injuries on the road.
- Sunscreen and bug repellent: Protecting your skin from sunburn and insect bites ensures a more comfortable ride, especially during hot seasons.
- Snacks and hydration: Energy bars, nuts, and water or electrolytes keep you fueled and prevent dehydration, maintaining your strength and endurance.
If you’re looking for a trip to Quang Binh, contact us now to book and enjoy the most complete trip:
- Hotline: 0911 030 057
- Email: [email protected]
