A Cultural Family Adventure in Kampot, Cambodia

Whispers of the Past on Bokor Mountain

Today, our family embarked on an adventure that took us high above the charming town of Kampot, into the heart of Bokor National Park. It was a day of misty mountains, cascading waterfalls, and echoes of Cambodia's colonial past. Leaving Dresden feels a world away as we immerse ourselves in the beauty and history of my homeland.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at The Wooden House, Armando's. The Italian flavors were a delightful start to our Cambodian adventure. Lara was particularly excited about the prospect of pizza so early in the day, and Hans enjoyed a strong coffee, preparing himself for the ascent ahead. I savored a simple pasta dish, a comforting taste of Europe amidst our Southeast Asian journey.

The drive up Phnom Bokor was an experience in itself. The road wound its way through lush, green landscapes, with glimpses of the coastline far below. As we climbed higher, the air grew cooler and mist began to swirl around us, creating an ethereal atmosphere. I couldn't help but think of my childhood in Battambang, and how different this landscape was from the rice paddies I knew so well. It made me appreciate the diversity of Cambodia even more.


Explore the breathtaking views and rich history at Phnom Bokor, a must-visit mountain peak in Cambodia for nature and adventure lovers.

Our first stop was the abandoned Bokor Hill Station. The buildings stood as ghostly reminders of the French colonial era, shrouded in mist and silence. We explored the old church, its walls crumbling and paint peeling, imagining the lives of those who once lived and worshipped here. Lara was fascinated by the stories I told her of the past, of grand parties and lavish lifestyles, now replaced by an eerie stillness. The Bokor Hill Station offers breathtaking views, even when partially obscured by fog.

The mountain held its secrets close, whispering tales of ambition and abandonment in the swirling mist.

Next, we ventured to Popokvil Waterfall, a stunning cascade of water tumbling down the mountainside. The short hike through the forest was refreshing, the air filled with the sounds of birds and the scent of damp earth. When we reached the waterfall, we were greeted by a breathtaking sight. The water plunged into a clear pool below, surrounded by lush greenery. The Khmer name “Popokvil” means “swirling clouds”. Although October is towards the end of the rainy season, the waterfall was still impressive.


Escape to Popokvil Waterfall in Bokor National Park for a refreshing retreat amidst stunning natural beauty and tranquil surroundings.

Lara was eager to get closer, and we carefully made our way down the rocky path to the base of the falls. The spray of the water was cool and invigorating, and we spent some time simply enjoying the beauty of nature. I remembered visiting waterfalls with my own family as a child, the joy and wonder of those moments echoing in my heart as I watched Lara's face light up with excitement.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Vanna Restaurant & Bar. The blend of Cambodian and Western flavors was a hit with all of us. Hans enjoyed a traditional Cambodian dish, while Lara opted for a burger. I savored the fish with mango, a perfect combination of sweet and savory. The restaurant's riverside location added to the charm, and we watched as boats glided along the water, the sounds of Kampot life drifting on the breeze.


Discover culinary excellence at Vanna Restaurant & Bar in Krong Kampot – where local flavors meet international flair.

In the late afternoon, we stopped by The Green Room - Kampot, a local bar known for its relaxed atmosphere. While Hans enjoyed a local craft beer, Lara and I shared a refreshing fruit smoothie. The Green Room had a welcoming vibe, a mix of locals and tourists mingling and sharing stories. It was a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Green Room in Kampot, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and local charm await every visitor.

As the day drew to a close, we headed back down Bokor Mountain, the mist swirling around us like a protective blanket. The sunset painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, a stunning farewell to a day filled with adventure and discovery. We decided to have dinner at TIKI GARDEN. It was a perfect way to end the day, enjoying the garden setting and reflecting on our experiences.


Experience authentic French cuisine at TIKI GARDEN in Kampot - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and culture.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Phnom Chhngok Cave and Sothy's Pepper Farm. I'm particularly excited to visit the pepper farm, as Kampot pepper is renowned throughout the world, and I want to share that part of Cambodian culture and heritage with my family. As I write this, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share my heritage with Hans and Lara. Seeing Cambodia through their eyes has been a truly special experience, and I know that the memories we are creating here will last a lifetime. It's moments like these that remind me of the importance of family, culture, and the enduring power of travel to connect us to the world and to each other.