Exploring the Wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

A Final Day of Wonders

As our ten-day adventure in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park draws to a close, Olivia and I wanted to make the most of our last day. We packed our bags, both literally and metaphorically, with unforgettable memories of this stunning region. Today was all about squeezing in a couple more incredible sights and savoring the local flavors one last time.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at PHONG NHA FAMILY RESTAURANT (NHÀ HÀNG GIA ĐÌNH VIỆT NAM). I opted for a steaming bowl of pho, while Olivia enjoyed some delicious stir-fried noodles with tofu and vegetables. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a morning of cave exploration. The friendly atmosphere and delicious food made it a memorable start to the day.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Phong Nha Family Restaurant in Quang Binh Province – a culinary gem amidst stunning natural beauty.

First on our itinerary was Hang Va Cave. Known for its unique geological formations, especially the tower cones, this cave promised a thrilling adventure. The trek to the cave was an experience in itself, winding through dense jungle and over rocky terrain. Olivia, ever the enthusiastic explorer, was in her element, snapping photos of the lush scenery. I, on the other hand, was just trying to keep up! It was a moderately challenging hike, involving some scrambling and navigating through narrow passages. I was grateful for my trusty hiking boots, one of the essentials I remembered to pack for this trip.


Explore the enchanting Hang Va Cave, a natural wonder in Quang Binh, Vietnam, filled with breathtaking formations and rich biodiversity.

Inside Hang Va, we were greeted by a mesmerizing world of stalactites and stalagmites. The tower cones were truly a sight to behold, unlike anything I’d ever seen before. We spent hours exploring the cave, marveling at the intricate formations and the play of light and shadow. The underground rivers added another layer of excitement, and we even took a refreshing swim in one of the subterranean pools. It was an exhilarating experience, and I felt like a true adventurer, even if my brewery tour guide days are usually spent closer to a pint of ale than a subterranean river.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After our Hang Va adventure, we made our way to Tien Son Cave. Also known as the Dry Cave, Tien Son is located high on a mountainside, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The journey to the cave involved climbing a series of stone steps, but the panoramic vistas along the way were well worth the effort. Inside, we were greeted by a dazzling array of stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated by a well-designed lighting system. The cave felt like a magical castle, with formations resembling mythical creatures and ancient symbols.


Discover the stunning formations and natural beauty of Tien Son Cave in Vietnam's Quang Binh Province, a must-visit for every adventure seeker.

By now, we were both ravenous, so we headed to The Villas Restaurant for a late lunch. This restaurant is known for its beautiful setting along the Son River and its delicious Western and Vietnamese cuisine. Olivia opted for the Victory Road Burger, which apparently is legendary, while I decided to try some traditional Vietnamese dishes. We enjoyed our meal with a stunning view of the river and the surrounding mountains.


Discover exquisite Vietnamese cuisine amidst the natural beauty of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park at The Villas Restaurant.

For dinner, we chose Bamboo Chopsticks, a local restaurant known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and eco-friendly practices. The restaurant had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I tried the caramel tofu, while Olivia had the eggplant dish. Both were absolutely divine, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. We also sampled some local Da Lat wine, which was an interesting experience in itself.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Bamboo Chopsticks in Phong Nha – where every meal tells a story.

To celebrate our last night, we decided to check out Victory Road Villas bar. We enjoyed a couple of drinks by the river, reminiscing about our incredible journey through Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. The peaceful setting and the cool evening breeze made it a perfect ending to our day. It was a bittersweet moment, knowing that our adventure was coming to an end, but we were filled with gratitude for the experiences we had shared.


Discover the elegance of Victory Road Villas, your ultimate retreat in Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam—where nature meets luxury.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a tinge of sadness that our time in Phong Nha is over. But I also know that we’ll carry the memories of this incredible place with us forever. The stunning caves, the lush landscapes, and the warm hospitality of the Vietnamese people have left an indelible mark on our hearts. It was a trip that reminded me why I love to travel – to discover new wonders, to challenge myself, and to connect with different cultures. And to share those experiences with my amazing wife, Olivia, of course.

Tomorrow, we will be heading home, back to Kelowna and the familiar comforts of our brewery tour guide life. But I have a feeling that a part of me will always remain in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, exploring its hidden caves and marveling at its natural beauty. I might even try brewing a Vietnamese-inspired beer when I get back – who knows?

If you're planning a trip to Vietnam, I highly recommend adding Phong Nha to your itinerary. It's a destination that will surprise and delight you at every turn. Just remember to pack your hiking boots, sunscreen (something I forgot, to my detriment!), and a sense of adventure. You won't regret it. And who knows, maybe I'll see you there, sharing a cold beer and swapping stories of our caving adventures. Until next time, happy travels!

This trip has been an incredible experience, and I'm so glad I got to share it with Olivia. Her enthusiasm and adventurous spirit always make our travels more special. I know she's already planning our next adventure, and I can't wait to see where we'll go next. Perhaps somewhere with a good brewery or two?

For now, it's time to say goodbye to Phong Nha and hello to home. But the memories of this trip will stay with us forever, reminding us of the beauty and wonder that exists in our world. And who knows, maybe one day we'll return to explore even more of this incredible national park. Until then, happy travels, and may your own adventures be as unforgettable as ours.

The sun sets on our Vietnamese escapade, but the memories will forever gleam like the stalactites of Phong Nha's caves. It's time to bid adieu to this captivating land, carrying with us the echoes of its wonders and the warmth of its people.