Exploring the Natural Wonders of Phong Nha-Ke Bang

A Warm Welcome to Phong Nha

After a long journey from Heidelberg, with a stopover in Hanoi and a domestic flight to Dong Hoi, we finally arrived in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. The anticipation had been building for months, and I must admit, the reality exceeded even my wildest expectations. It's a relief to finally be here with Elke and Maximilian, ready to explore this natural wonderland. The air is fresh, the scenery is breathtaking, and the promise of adventure hangs heavy in the air.


Discover the natural beauty and adventure of Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning caves and vibrant ecosystems in Vietnam.

Our first day was all about settling in and getting a feel for the area. After checking in, our priority was finding a hearty breakfast. We decided on The Villas Restaurant, enticed by its reputation for international cuisine and local flavors. The restaurant was charming, and the staff greeted us with warm smiles, making us feel instantly welcome. I opted for a traditional Vietnamese breakfast, while Elke chose a European-style omelet, and Maximilian, ever the adventurous one, went for a spicy noodle soup. It was the perfect start to our culinary exploration of Phong Nha.


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

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set out to explore Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. The park itself is a sight to behold, a sprawling landscape of limestone karst mountains, lush jungles, and hidden caves. While we didn't have any specific cave tours planned for today, we soaked in the beauty of the surroundings, driving along the winding roads and stopping at viewpoints to capture the stunning vistas. The December weather was quite pleasant, with mild temperatures hovering around 20 degrees Celsius, although Elke did mention she was glad she packed a light jacket for the evenings.

To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries. - Aldous Huxley

For lunch, we ventured to Son Doong Restaurant, named after the world's largest cave. The restaurant offered a wide array of Vietnamese dishes, and we decided to try a few local specialties. The flavors were exquisite, a delightful blend of herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients. Maximilian was particularly impressed with the crispy spring rolls, while Elke enjoyed a fragrant lemongrass chicken dish. I savored a bowl of *pho*, the iconic Vietnamese noodle soup, which was both comforting and invigorating.


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

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through Phong Nha Collection, a local shop offering a variety of handicrafts, souvenirs, and local products. Elke, ever the librarian, was immediately drawn to a collection of books about Vietnamese history and culture. Maximilian, on the other hand, was fascinated by the intricate wood carvings and traditional musical instruments. I picked up a small zither, hoping to add a touch of Vietnamese flair to my musical repertoire back in Heidelberg. It will be a nice reminder of our trip when I am back in my workshop restoring antique furniture.


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

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Phong Nha. We found a cozy café overlooking the Son River and ordered some Vietnamese coffee, a strong and flavorful brew served with condensed milk. We sat there for hours, sipping our coffee, watching the boats glide along the river, and chatting about our plans for the rest of the trip. Maximilian was particularly excited about our cave explorations tomorrow, especially Paradise Cave and Tien Son Cave.

For our first dinner in Phong Nha, we chose PHONG NHA FAMILY RESTAURANT (NHÀ HÀNG GIA ĐÌNH VIỆT NAM), drawn in by its authentic Vietnamese cuisine and warm, family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to sample the delicious dishes on offer. We ordered a variety of sharing plates, including fresh seafood, savory stir-fries, and flavorful curries. The food was exceptional, and the service was attentive and welcoming. It felt like we were dining in someone's home, surrounded by the warmth and hospitality of Vietnamese culture.


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

As the day drew to a close, we strolled back to our accommodation, our hearts full of gratitude and excitement for the days ahead. Phong Nha had already cast its spell on us, and we couldn't wait to delve deeper into its natural wonders and cultural treasures. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Paradise Cave and Tien Son Cave, two of the most famous caves in the region. Maximilian is especially excited about Paradise Cave, with its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Elke is looking forward to learning more about the geological formations and the history of the caves. And I, of course, am eager to capture the beauty of these subterranean landscapes through my lens.

Before heading back to the hotel and calling it a night, Maximilian reminded us that he wanted to check out Jungle Boss Pub and Restaurant tomorrow evening. He read somewhere that they have great drinks and a lively atmosphere. Elke and I agreed, thinking it would be a nice way to unwind after a day of cave exploring.

I also realize that I forgot to pack a rain poncho and a portable phone charger. I will need to get that sorted tomorrow. But for now, I am content to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in this captivating corner of Vietnam. Good night from Phong Nha!

Tomorrow promises more exploration and adventure, and I can't wait to share it all with you. Until then, *chúc ngủ ngon* (good night) from Phong Nha!