Solo Adventure in the Misty Mountains of Tam Dao

A Warm Welcome to Tam Dao

After a long journey from Bristol, via Hanoi, I've finally arrived in the serene mountain town of Tam Dao. The air is noticeably cooler and fresher than the city, a welcome change. My first day is all about soaking in the atmosphere and exploring some of the local landmarks. I'm eager to share my initial experiences and the unique charm of this Vietnamese retreat.

The journey here was quite straightforward. The flight to Hanoi was long but uneventful, and the local bus to Tam Dao offered a glimpse into the Vietnamese countryside. As we ascended into the mountains, the landscape transformed into a lush, green panorama, shrouded in mist. It reminded me a little of the landscapes around Matsumoto, back in Japan, albeit with a distinctly Vietnamese flavour.

My guesthouse is a cozy little place, nestled on a hillside overlooking the town. The owner, a friendly woman named Anh, greeted me with a warm smile and a cup of local tea. After settling in, I decided to start my exploration with a visit to the Tam Dao Stone Church.


Discover the tranquil beauty and cultural significance of Tam Dao Stone Church amidst Vietnam's breathtaking landscapes.

Tam Dao Stone Church: A Gothic Masterpiece in the Clouds

The Tam Dao Stone Church is an unmissable landmark, standing proudly in the center of town. As I approached, the Gothic architecture was striking against the backdrop of the misty mountains. Built in 1937, the church has a rich history, initially starting as a wooden structure in 1906 before being rebuilt with stone. The French colonial influence is evident in every detail, from the pointed arches to the towering bell tower.

The church is built on two floors, with the second floor housing the main sanctuary. Inside, the stained glass windows depict biblical scenes, adding a touch of color to the otherwise stone interior. I spent some time admiring the architecture and the peaceful atmosphere, reflecting on the history and cultural significance of this place.

Every corner of the stone church tells a story, a testament to the enduring beauty and cultural richness of Tam Dao.

The views from the church are breathtaking. From the courtyard, I could see the entire town nestled in the valley, with its villas, hotels, and bustling markets. The mist added an ethereal quality to the scene, making it feel like I was standing in a painting. I took several photos, trying to capture the magic of the moment, hoping that Eleanor and Kenji would appreciate the beauty of this place through my lens.

Exploring the Silver Waterfall

Next on my list was the Silver Waterfall, located a short distance from the town center. The walk to the waterfall was an adventure in itself, involving a descent down a series of stone steps. The path was surrounded by lush greenery, and the sound of the cascading water grew louder as I approached.


Discover the enchanting Silver Waterfall in Tam Dao, Vietnam, where nature's beauty meets serenity for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

The Silver Waterfall, or Thac Bac as it’s known locally, is a stunning sight. The water cascades down the rocks, creating a silvery effect that gives the waterfall its name. The cool, fresh air was invigorating, and I could feel the mist on my face as I stood at the base of the falls.

I took some time to relax and enjoy the scenery. The waterfall is surrounded by tall, green trees, and the clear blue sky added to the picturesque setting. It was a perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature. I even dipped my feet in the cool water, enjoying the refreshing sensation. It's worth noting that while swimming is possible, it's advisable to stay close to the shore due to the strong currents.

A Taste of Local Cuisine

For breakfast, I ventured to Nhà Hàng Phố Mây, a restaurant known for its beautiful views of Tam Dao. I enjoyed a hearty bowl of Pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup, while taking in the panoramic scenery. The restaurant’s location offers a sweeping view of the town, making it a perfect spot to start the day.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine with stunning views at Nhà Hàng Phố Mây in beautiful Tam Đảo.

Lunch was at Nhà Hàng Phúc Hương Viên Tam Đảo, a well-regarded establishment committed to serving high-quality Tam Dao specialties. I sampled several local dishes, including tái kiến đốt (beef with kiến đốt ants), gà đồi Tam Đảo (Tam Dao hill chicken), and rau su su (chayote), a local vegetable. The ingredients were incredibly fresh, and the flavors were authentic. The restaurant itself had a cozy ambiance, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal.


Discover exquisite Vietnamese cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Nhà hàng Phúc Hương Viên in Tam Đảo.

As evening approached, I decided to have dinner at Tamdao Legend Restaurant - Bar Lounge - Cafe Bistro. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, and the menu offered a mix of Vietnamese and international dishes. I opted for a local specialty, sturgeon hotpot, which was both comforting and delicious. The sturgeon, raised in the cold mountain streams, had a firm, clean taste, and the hotpot broth was flavorful and aromatic.


Experience exquisite dining at Tamdao Legend Restaurant - Bar Lounge - Cafe Bistro amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Tam Đảo.

Exploring Tam Dao Market

Before dinner, I took a stroll through Tam Dao Market, a bustling hub of local life. The market was filled with the scents of fresh produce, spices, and traditional Vietnamese snacks. I sampled some local delicacies, such as grilled meats and handmade rice cakes.


Dive into the heart of Vietnamese culture at Tam Dao Market, where vibrant stalls and delicious street food await every traveler.

The market also showcased an array of handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. I purchased a few small items to take back home, including a hand-woven scarf and some locally made tea. The vendors were friendly and eager to share stories about their products, adding to the cultural experience.

It's worth noting that the market is particularly lively on Tuesdays, operating from early morning until noon. While I visited on a Wednesday, there was still plenty of activity and a wide selection of goods on offer. It’s advisable to bring cash, as many vendors may not accept electronic payments.

Final Thoughts on Day One

My first day in Tam Dao has been nothing short of magical. The town's serene beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine have already captured my heart. As I reflect on my experiences, I am reminded of a quote by the Japanese poet Matsuo Basho:

Each road is a new discovery.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Tây Thiên Great Mandala Stupa and Thiền viện Trúc Lâm Tây Thiên, further exploring the spiritual side of this region. I’m also hoping to find some time to relax at the Monaco Sky Bar, enjoying the evening views. For now, though, I'm content to rest and prepare for another day of adventure in this enchanting mountain town. The cool November air is a welcome change from Bristol, with temperatures averaging around 19.9°C (67.9°F). I am glad I packed weather-appropriate clothing, although I did forget my umbrella, which might have been useful given the 22% chance of rain. I'll have to remember to buy a local SIM card tomorrow too, to stay connected.

Tam Dao has a unique charm that blends French colonial history with Vietnamese culture. I am looking forward to seeing what tomorrow brings, and sharing more of my experiences with you all. Goodnight from Tam Dao!