Sailing leisurely on the waters of Ao Châu Lake

Far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, come to Ao Châu on these scorching summer days, and you'll find yourself sailing on a boat, admiring the picturesque landscape of mountains, clouds, and serene waters like a masterpiece painting, bringing tranquility to your soul.

Summer tourism: Sailing on Ao Châu Lake

Located 140km from Hanoi via National Highway 2, Ao Châu Lake lies within the territories of three communes and townships: Y Sơn, Ấm Hạ, and Hạ Hòa (Hạ Hòa District, Phú Thọ Province).

Covering an area of approximately 300ha, the lake consists of 99 branches, winding around the mountains in beautiful curves. Each branch has its own charm awaiting exploration. Particularly, Ao Châu is dotted with nearly 100 islands of various sizes scattered across the lake.

Legend has it that in ancient times, King Hùng, on his quest to find a site for the capital, halted at Ao Châu because he saw this land as a perfect blend of rivers, mountains, and harmony.

This is a harmonious natural complex blending mountains, hills, vegetation, birdsongs, blossoms, and lakes. The emerald-green lake water possesses an enchanting allure, captivating in its own right throughout the day.

In the early morning, the water glistens with the color of mist. In the afternoon, it takes on an emerald-green hue, so clear that one can admire the reflection of scenery beneath the lake's surface. As dusk descends, the lake surface shimmers with a faint purple hue.

The most delightful experience is drifting slowly on a boat across the lake. The lush vegetation surrounding the lake and on the small islands is incredibly diverse and enticing. Most captivating are the orchard hills, cultivated for decades.

During this season, visitors can step onto the islands and handpick ripe red clusters of mulberries to enjoy on the spot.

Relaxing under the shade of trees, savoring sweet fruits while listening to birdsong, the rhythmic sound of paddles from fishermen, and inhaling the fragrance of blossoms... there's no sensation quite as delightful.

Ao Châu is teeming with fish. Locals here cast their nets daily, catching various species like black carp, grass carp, and catfish, some weighing over 10kg.

For those passionate about fishing, eager to experience the thrill of catching hefty black carp weighing 10 – 15kg, this is an ideal fishing spot. From either bank, you can cast your line at any time.

While fishing, you may hear stories from the local people about the giant catfish that were once the 'citizens' of the lake. These catfish, larger than small boats, are like legends from the depths of Ao Châu.

If you're still skeptical, you can 'inspect the troops' right at the homes of the old fishermen on both sides of the lake.

Notably, the cuisine at Ao Châu is sure to satisfy visitors. Dishes like grilled fish, steamed snails with lemongrass, roasted duck, forest vegetables, and various wild herbs offer rich flavors that tourists will be treated to by the locals...

Information for you

To reach Ao Châu from Hanoi, whether by train, expressway, or regular road via the Hanoi – Yen Bai route, stop at the center of Hạ Hòa township. The Ao Châu ferry dock is conveniently located along the route.

Here, after admiring the scenery of Ao Châu Lake, you can visit historical sites such as the Au Co Temple, Chu Hung Temple, explore craft villages, and discover Ao Troi – Suoi Tien about 20km away. There are plenty of guesthouse services for you to choose from for overnight stays.

Ao Châu Lake is an ideal eco-tourism destination, currently welcoming investors to make it a prime destination for travelers exploring their roots.

Source: Tuoi Tre

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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour