Buzz
In the scorching summer, perfect for a leisurely boat trip to discover the tranquil volcanic relics resting peacefully beside millions-of-years-old waves in Binh Chau (Binh Son, Quang Ngai), along with the opportunity to relish fresh succulent seafood.
Quang Ngai tourism: Wandering around the volcanic mountain range
Cool sea breeze, rugged rock formations, the boat gently glides on the waves allowing tourists to freely admire the volcanic rock formations with myriad bizarre shapes.
Rolling waves against rocky ridges
June, the sun beats down on the Central region, emitting a stifling heat, we hired a small boat to explore the volcanic ridges from Sa Ky port to Dung Quat port.
Leaving the Bàn Than area, we ventured into a narrow path leading to a larger volcanic rock beach known as Thạch Ky Điếu Tẩu. The beach, adorned with stretches of beautiful rocks, is gently caressed by the serene waters.
Locally referred to as the Giant Footprint, this spot offers a panoramic view of the rocky shore from a distance, explaining its moniker.
Our boat continued to ride the waves along the mountainous coast, revealing the tranquil life of the locals nestled behind the hills overlooking the sea.
However, from the sea's perspective, there are no visible structures, only a vivid green expanse of forest cascading down the rocky cliffs.
Fishermen aboard small motorized coracles hug the coastline closely, casting nets for sustenance. They warmly welcomed us, their fresh catches captivating our urban sensibilities.
The beauty of Bình Châu's volcanic terrain is unparalleled—rock formations resembling towering arches, steep inclines, fortress-like walls, expansive plains akin to a sports field, and even underwater caves that emerge at low tide, only to vanish with the rising waters.
Passing through colossal magma blocks, our destination lies at Ba Làng An Beach, once a retreat favored by the French.
Despite centuries of tourism, nature here remains largely untouched by human hands. Trees cling to the rocks, warding off the intense summer heat.
The erosive forces of wind, waves, and rain over millions of years have carved intricate grooves into the rocks, resembling abstract paintings. These rock formations harbor natural cool water pools.
The sensation of immersing oneself in these pools alleviates even the most stubborn headaches, following a boat ride to explore the UNESCO-acclaimed geological heritage—the rare volcanic coastal landscape.
Experience the Coastal Heritage
Opting to disembark and rent motorbikes to traverse the hillsides, we ventured along forested trails that entice adventure seekers. What's remarkable is that approximately every kilometer, there's a path leading to the sea.
These spots often comprise massive rock formations or towering volcanic cliffs. Unlike the sensation aboard a boat, standing on the shore offers a vast expanse of water and the opportunity to hear locals recount the legends surrounding these rocky shores.
Engaging tales passed down through generations by the indigenous people satisfy the curiosity about a coastline blessed by nature.
Standing atop a hill, witnessing the crashing waves and the cacophony of sea birds creates an otherworldly auditory experience.
Descending down a small slope towards the sea, surrounded by the sounds of rustling leaves and crashing waves, evokes a primitive ambiance reminiscent of prehistoric times.
Our guide, Hậu, handed me a map for exploring the volcanic terrain. He assured me that the map included nearby attractions ready to enchant even the most discerning travelers: the ancient ship cemetery, Thu Xà Old Town, Cà Đam Peak, Sơn Mỹ Relics, Thiên Ấn Mountain... a marvelous itinerary for nature enthusiasts and curious minds. Indeed, these destinations are so closely located, each offering unique beauty.
In recent times, tour companies have introduced travelers to an incredible journey. Strolling through Thu Xà Old Town, indulging in local delicacies, exploring centuries-old houses, and witnessing traditional crafts passed down through generations.
Next, we visited Thiên Ấn Peak to pay respects to the tomb of Huỳnh Thúc Kháng and admire the Thiên Ấn Pagoda. Another 7km led us to the Sơn Mỹ Memorial Site, where the tragic story of the 504 innocent civilians massacred reminds us all to strive for peace.
Travelers then ventured to the ancient ship cemetery, home to hundreds of shipwrecks and millions of artifacts dating back thousands of years. Passing through Gành Cả Village nestled beneath towering basalt columns.
Here, visitors can listen to captivating tales of the Paracel Islands from lifelong residents intimately connected to the waters of the Paracels.
As the evening sun cast a hazy glow upon the rocks, local fishermen prepared for their nightly dives, their laughter inviting tourists to join them on their boats.
Nguyễn Minh Hồng, director of Quảng Ngãi Tourism Company, noted that these fantastic attractions were previously overlooked, rarely seen by tourists.
In recent times, many companies have set their sights on this tour route. Efforts are being made to enhance tour guides, promotional materials, and imagery to entice travelers, who are often overwhelmed by the pristine beauty and ancient traces of this wilderness.
* Mr. Nguyễn Đăng Vũ (Director of Quảng Ngãi Department of Culture, Sports, Tourism):
Awakening Tourism Potential
Quảng Ngãi's coastal tourism potential is being awakened, attracting an increasing number of visitors for sightseeing and relaxation.
Experts are finalizing procedures to designate Bình Châu – Lý Sơn and its vicinity as a global geopark.
“This will leverage Quảng Ngãi's scenic tourism to be closer to tourists,” Mr. Vũ stated. In diversifying tourism products and exploring the beauty of underwater volcanic landscapes, Quảng Ngãi tourism is considering services such as diving to admire volcanic relics like Tò Vò Gate, rocky mountain ranges, volcanic coral plateaus beneath the sea—recently discovered by experts.
Relaxation and Seafood Indulgence
Since UNESCO experts assisted Vietnam in completing the dossier to become a global geopark, more tourists have been visiting Ba Làng An Cape.
Mr. Thanh, a local resident, noted that previously, there were only a few visitors from Quảng Ngãi who came here for rest and relaxation, but in recent years, tourists from all over have flocked here in greater numbers.
Locals have diversified their livelihoods beyond fishing to include food and accommodation services. Freshly caught fish from the reefs, paired with some star fruits and betel leaves picked from the hills, make for a refreshing and enticing summer dish before continuing to explore the volcanic system here in the afternoon.
Source: Tuổi Trẻ
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Reference: Travel Handbook from Mytour
MytourJune 17, 2016
