Exploring the Natural Wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang

Homeward Bound, But First, One Last Cave!

As our time in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park draws to a close, I find myself filled with a bittersweet mix of emotions. This journey has been nothing short of spectacular, a true immersion into the heart of Vietnam's natural beauty. Today, on Christmas Eve, we had one last adventure planned before preparing for our journey back to Germany. It was a day to savor the final moments of this incredible landscape and reflect on the memories we've created as a family.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at The Villas Restaurant. The Villas Restaurant is known as Phong Nha's most beautiful eating place and is situated along the sensational Son River. As always, the atmosphere was serene, and the food was excellent. I opted for the Victory Breakfast, a hearty meal of eggs, sausage, bacon, baked beans, tomato, and hashbrowns. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our morning exploration. Elke enjoyed the Vietnamese Pho, while Maximilian chose a simple toasted sandwich with ham, cheese and tomato.


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

After breakfast, we set off to explore Phong Nha Cave. The weather in December is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 18.4°C to 21.5°C, making it ideal for caving. The park is still lush and green even in December. As we approached the cave entrance, the air was filled with anticipation. This cave is called a water cave and is famous for its rock formations.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Phong Nha Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring stunning limestone formations and rich biodiversity in Vietnam.

We boarded a traditional dragon boat for a scenic ride along the Son River. The views were breathtaking, with towering limestone peaks and lush greenery reflecting in the tranquil waters. The boat ride itself was a peaceful experience, allowing us to soak in the natural beauty of the area.

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.

As we entered Phong Nha Cave, I was immediately struck by the coolness of the air and the stillness of the water. The cave is truly a natural wonder, with shimmering stalactites and stalagmites creating a mesmerizing landscape. We drifted along the underground river, marveling at the unique rock formations that have been shaped over thousands of years. The boat driver turned off the motor, and we admired the cave's splendor.

Phong Nha Cave is a water cave famous for its rock formations. The cave is renowned for its rock formations, which have been given names such as the Lion, the Fairy Caves, the Royal Court, and the Buddha. Exploring the cave by boat and on foot was a unique experience.

After our morning adventure, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Son Doong Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Quang Binh. The restaurant has a charming and rustic ambiance that perfectly complements its natural surroundings. We enjoyed a delicious set platter featuring a variety of Vietnamese dishes. It was a satisfying meal and a perfect way to refuel after our cave exploration.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Son Doong Restaurant in Phong Nha – where every meal is a journey into local culinary delights.

In the afternoon, while Elke and Maximilian relaxed, I decided to do some last-minute souvenir shopping at Phong Nha Collection. This shop reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Vietnam and offers a variety of locally crafted garments. I found a beautiful silk scarf for Elke and a traditional Vietnamese hat for Maximilian. I even picked up a few small trinkets for my friends back in Heidelberg.


Explore Phong Nha Collection for a unique blend of local fashion and cultural essence amidst stunning natural beauty.

For our final dinner in Phong Nha, we chose PHONG NHA FAMILY RESTAURANT. This restaurant is known for its delicious food and friendly staff. We enjoyed stir-fried noodles with tofu and vegetables, beef rice, and chicken hotpot. The staff members are incredibly friendly. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting.


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

As the day came to an end, we packed our bags and prepared for our departure tomorrow. Reflecting on our time in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we've shared as a family. We've explored breathtaking caves, trekked through lush jungles, and immersed ourselves in the local culture. This trip has been a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we will begin our journey home, filled with stories and photographs to share with our friends and family. While I am eager to return to Heidelberg and my antique furniture restoration business, I know that a part of me will always remain in this beautiful corner of Vietnam. The tranquility of the Son River, the majesty of the limestone karsts, and the warmth of the Vietnamese people have left an indelible mark on my soul.

As I write this final blog post from Phong Nha, I raise a glass to adventure, to family, and to the beauty of our planet. May we all continue to explore, to learn, and to cherish the wonders that surround us.

Until next time, auf Wiedersehen!

P.S. I almost forgot! I was able to purchase a few gifts for loved ones back home today at Phong Nha Collection, so I'm excited to bring those back!