Viet Hai ancient fishing village, nestled deep within Cat Ba National Park in the district of Cat Hai, Hai Phong, is a small fishing village and almost isolated from the outside. Compared to other fishing villages, it boasts a relatively small area of about 141 hectares with 70 households. Viet Hai Village is a picturesque destination, yet has yet to be widely known among Vietnam travelers. The area features a harmonious blend of landscapes, including limestone mountains, the sea, forests, and a diverse and rich ecosystem.
When arriving at this secluded fishing village within the Cat Ba forest, visitors have the opportunity to temporarily escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and discover a tranquil haven. If you're seeking a respite from the demands of daily life or a place to unwind, join Izitour on an exploration of the charming Viet Hai Village in Cat Ba!
Viet Hai Village is located on Cat Ba Island, which is around 1.5 hour drive from Hanoi. You can reach Cat Ba Island by public bus, shuttle bus, coach, motorbike, or private car.
>> See more: How to get from Hanoi to Cat Ba?
The peaceful hidden village
Once in Cat Ba Island, you have two options to reach Viet Hai Village:
Option 1: Hike through the ancient forest of Cat Ba National Park, covering a distance of 12 km. This choice is ideal for sports enthusiasts and explorers. The entrance fee to Cat Ba National Park is approximately $3 per person. Following that, you can freely explore and enjoy your fascinating journey through the forest, crossing streams along the way.
Option 2: Take a boat across Lan Ha Bay to Viet Hai. This is a more effortless option, especially suitable for family tours with children. Visitors can rent a boat or canoe from Beo Pier in the southeast of Cat Ba Island to reach Viet Hai Village via Lan Ha Bay. Most tourists on tours will travel by Lan Ha Bay cruises, and the itinerary will include a visit to Viet Hai Village. From the Viet Hai pier, you can walk, cycle, or use electric vehicles to enter the village, which is approximately 5km away. The scenery along the way is very fresh and tranquil, with plenty of greenery. However, during August, Cat Ba often experiences rough seas and high waves, making boat travel challenging. Therefore, visitors should exercise caution, and check the weather conditions in advance.
Every time you visit the fishing village, you will have unique experiences. However, it is best for tourists to travel to Viet Hai Village, Cat Ba, during the following two periods:
Biking road from the pier to the village
Viet Hai Fishing Village's locals have developed an ecotourism concept that immerses visitors in a strictly rural way of life, enabling them to connect with the community's true values. It is recommended that visitors participate in everyday activities with the locals, such as helping fishermen gather shrimp and fish, planting seeds, farming alongside the Viet Hai farmers, and tending to cows, pigs, and poultry farms. With this practical approach, visitors may truly and enrichingly experience the village's way of life.
Buffaloes leisurely graze
The typical traditional house in the Northern region of Vietnam
Explore Hai Quan Peak, a mountain peak intertwined with historical significance from two national resistance wars. Here, you'll hear tales of heroic history. From the summit, enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful seascape of Cat Ba, resembling a picturesque painting. This peak holds cultural and historical importance, providing visitors with not only scenic beauty but also a profound connection to the nation's past.
Conquering a mountain peak
Furthermore, for a profound appreciation of the splendour within Cat Ba National Park and Viet Hai Village, consider taking a tram along the concrete road leading to the village. Alternatively, the majority of visitors prefer the enchanting experience of cycling, relishing the crisp morning or evening air and the sea breeze as they pass through caves, ancient forests, and golden rice fields in their full ripeness.
Many travelers love biking around
Travelers seeking relaxation and comfort alongside a serene stream can indulge in the fish massage service at Viet Hai Village. For just 20,000 VND per person, enjoy a unique foot and hand massage courtesy of a small fish. In a half-hour session, these fish will delicately remove dead skin cells from your feet, leaving them refreshed and promoting the regeneration of new cells. The fish massage is recognised as an effective way to alleviate stress, invigorate the nervous system, and enhance blood circulation.
Tourists try fishing massage
Amidst the crystal-clear waters, embark on a kayaking adventure to the "Dark and Light" cave. This partially submerged cave, nestled in the sea, allows small boats to gently navigate, offering an opportunity to appreciate its enchanting beauty and mystery. Alternatively, explore Ao Ech at Cat Ba Garden—an oasis featuring the distinctive flora of tropical forests. This lake serves as the sole water source for forest creatures during the dry season, adding to its ecological significance.
Kayaking on the sea
When you visit the ancient village of Viet Hai, don't miss the opportunity to savour the local specialities. The dishes prepared by the villagers have left a lasting impression on many travellers, and trying them once is sure to linger in your memories. Some dishes that you should try include lobster, sea cucumber, paired fish, sea urchin, clams, red snapper, and more. Communicate with the locals about how you'd like your dish prepared to ensure it suits your taste preferences.
Fresh seafood available in Cat Ba
We hope with the detailed sharing and reviews about Viet Hai Village on Cat Ba Island, travelers will have wonderful experiences here. Come and enjoy the tranquil and pristine atmosphere, as well as marvel at the majestic and poetic landscapes in the fishing village of Viet Hai!
See more about Halong Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago:
>> The 10 Best Things To Do in Cat Ba Island
>> Top 4 Charming Caves on Cat Ba Island
See more about Lan Ha Bay Cruises bringing visitors to Viet Hai Village:
>> UNICHARM CRUISE | Cat Ba - Lan Ha Bay 2 days 1 night(from 173$)
>> SCARLET PEARL CRUISE | Cat Ba - Lan Ha Bay 2 days 1 night (from 191$)
>> MON CHÉRI CRUISE | Tuan Chau - Lan Ha Bay 3 days 2 nights (from 348$)
>> PEONY CRUISE | Tuan Chau - Lan Ha Bay 3 days 2 nights (from 287$)
