Top 14 Highlighted Destinations in Nghệ An

When it comes to Nghệ An, one cannot help but think of the great President Ho Chi Minh, as it is his birthplace and upbringing. Therefore, the first place to visit is Bac's Homeland - Kim Liên, in Nam Dan district. With simple mud-walled houses, the scenery is serene and heartwarming. Visiting this place, tourists immerse themselves in the old stories about Uncle Ho and his family through gentle, touching narratives of the friendly and beautiful guides.

The Kim Liên Historical Site is a memorial site dedicated to President Ho Chi Minh in Kim Liên commune, Nam Dan district, about 15 km from Vinh city via provincial road 49. It is a place associated with the birthplace of President Ho Chi Minh in his maternal village of Hoang Tru, Kim Liên commune, Nam Dan, Nghệ An; where Ho Chi Minh lived from 1901 to 1906 in his paternal village of Kim Liên; the tomb of Mrs. Hoang Thi Loan (Mother of President Ho Chi Minh); Chung Mountain and many other relics that are linked to Ho Chi Minh's childhood. The Kim Liên Historical and Cultural Site is recognized as one of the national key tourist areas and one of the four most important historical sites related to the life and career of President Ho Chi Minh.

Lữ Beach is a beautiful beach located in Nghi Lộc district, where the sea deeply penetrates Vietnamese land. It features a winding golden sand embracing the sea, surrounded by pine and casuarina forests swaying in the wind. This is a land with mountains, forests, and the sea. Visitors, captivated by the beautiful and romantic natural scenery, quickly find relief from the fatigue of daily life. The soul of the visitors harmonizes with the land and sky. The naturally majestic and inspiring landscape has inspired numerous poems and music dedicated to Lữ Beach. One can say that Lữ Beach is a land of fairies.

The first impression upon arrival is the winding roads amidst golden fields. After overcoming a steep mountain pass, we officially set foot on Lữ Beach, feeling like we are ascending to heaven! After long, tiring days amidst the hustle and bustle of life, Lữ Beach is the perfect stopping point. If you have the means, you can rent a room in Lữ Beach Resort for the whole family to enjoy the fantastic atmosphere. Alternatively, you can camp on the smooth white sandy beaches or the red rocky beach with giant stones to fully immerse in the breath of the sea.

Tomb of Mrs. Hoang Thi Loan - The mother who gave birth to the national hero Ho Chi Minh rests on top of a high mountain named Dong Thanh. The tomb is oriented towards Uncle Ho's house, clearly expressing the desire to always watch over her husband and son. The elements composing the tomb carry special meanings associated with her life. For example, the stairway to the tomb on the left side has 269 steps (the number 69 corresponds to the year Uncle Ho passed away - 1969), and the stairway on the right side going down has 242 steps (the number 42 corresponds to the year her son Khiem brought her remains here - 1942).

Before descending to the tomb, there are 33 steps leading to the memorial area. The number 33 corresponds to Mrs. Loan's age. Above the tomb, a decorative flower arrangement resembling a loom is displayed, as Mrs. Loan used to weave cloth using a loom during her lifetime. The two clusters of paper flowers shading the tomb are sourced from Hue - where she passed away and the mausoleum of Mr. Nguyen Sinh Sac in Dong Thap...

Truong Bon is a landmark located in My Son commune, Do Luong district, Nghe An province, situated on the strategic route 15A during the resistance against the United States. This strategic route spans nearly 200km, connecting from national highway 1A - bordering Thanh Hoa province, passing through districts: Quynh Luu, Nghia Dan, Tan Ky, Do Luong, and reaching Nam Dan district.

Here, there is a branch leading to Linh Cam ferry, Ha Tinh province; a road to Vinh city, through Ben Thuy ferry to Dong Loc crossroads, Ha Tinh province. This is a vital transportation artery to transport human and material resources to support the Southern battlefield when American planes bombed and blockaded the transportation routes including railways, rivers, seas, and national highway 1A passing through Nghe An province. On this strategic route, Truong Bon is a particularly important traffic junction.

Historical Site Truong Bon is where 13 youth volunteers sacrificed themselves in 1968. Since then, the name Truong Bon has become a legend, marking the heroic achievements of our troops and people in the resistance against the United States. Recognizing the dedication and heroic sacrifice of the martyrs on the legendary Truong Bon road, especially the dedication and heroic sacrifice of 13/14 soldiers of the 'Steel Squad' belonging to the 317 Youth Volunteer Unit, in 1996, the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism recognized Truong Bon as a National Historical Site. Truong Bon today and in the future will forever echo the lullabies of the motherland, like the lullabies of the entire nation, to let the souls of these sisters and brothers rest in peace.

Sunflower Field, vast and expansive in Nghia Dan district with an area of up to 60 hectares, has attracted tourists, especially young people, to come and admire. When visiting, tourists are free to take photos and capture memorable moments without any cost. Sunflowers bloom twice a year, in March-April and November-December. From the end of November, when the first flowers show their colors, tourists can immerse themselves in the mesmerizing yellow paradise of the largest sunflower field in the country.

The 'sunflower petals' symbolize optimism and hope, so even in the cold and bleak winter days, Nghia Dan still shines brightly with millions of sunflowers displaying their colors. The yellow of the sunflower field stretches from one hill to another, seemingly endless to the horizon.

Cửa Lò Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam, located in Cua Lo town, Nghe An province, 16km from the center of Vinh city. Every year, Cua Lo Beach attracts millions of domestic and international tourists for sightseeing. Visitors come here not only to enjoy luxurious vacations but also to experience the relaxation in this peaceful land, with the essence of the sea, wind, golden sunshine, white sandy beaches, and the hospitality of the people of Nghe An.

The attraction of Cua Lo Beach lies in its smooth and flat sandy shore, stretching over 10km, with gentle sunlight, comfortable slope, and clear water. Moreover, Cua Lo has many seafood restaurants, delicious and fresh, along with green coconut groves, satisfying the needs of entertainment, dining, and relaxation for many tourists when traveling to Nghe An. In addition to beach activities, during the tourism season from May, there are many beach tourism opening festivals. Here, various folk cultural activities, lively games, and fireworks displays mark the end of the tourist season at the end of September. Besides enjoying the beach, tourists can also savor fresh seafood and visit fishing villages to buy gifts.

Stretching across the lands of three districts: Anh Son, Con Cuong, Tuong Duong, a pristine natural landscape untouched by human hands: Primeval forests at the headwaters of Khe Thoi, Khe Bu, Khe Choang, Cao Veu... Khe Kem Waterfall, Moc Stream, Giang River, Sanging forest, and the distinctive cultures of the Thai, H'mong, Dan Lai ethnic groups - the wild beauty is nature's gift to Pu Mat.

One peculiar and almost rare thing in Pu Mat is that on small boats cutting through the waves on the Giang River, tourists seem to return to true nature, where humans are just a tiny part of it. On both sides, lush vegetation, immersed in the wilderness, with the highlight being the majestic limestone mountains, adorned with vibrant colors of various orchid species and the gentle coolness of the clear water.

Another Nghệ An tourist spot you should visit is the Cua Hoi Ecotourism Area. This attraction is located at the intersection of Vinh - Cua Hoi pillar, Binh Minh road of Cua Lo town bordering the Lam River. Cua Hoi is nestled under lush green bamboo forests, always filled with refreshing sea breeze and the salty taste of the sea. The Cua Hoi Ecotourism Area covers an area of over 4 hectares with a 500m-long coastline. It is an ideal destination that attracts many tourists when visiting Cua Lo.

Cua Hoi Ecological Zone is situated at the intersection of Vinh - Cua Hoi pillar and Binh Minh road of Cua Lo town connected to the Lam River route, adjacent to the Cua Hoi fishing port, 5km south of the Cua Lo tourist center, and 15km west of Vinh City. Located on an area of over 4 hectares with a 500m-long coastline, the Cua Hoi Ecotourism Area is hidden under the cool green bamboo forest, bathing in the sounds of the jungle and the sea all year round.

The Cua Hoi Ecotourism Area was established in 2000 on an area of 5 hectares. The ecotourism area offers seafood dining services, separate stilt house accommodation, freshwater fishing, beach bathing, and more. It's an ideal retreat for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. From this location, tourists can observe Ngư Island with its two consecutive hills, explaining why the island is also named Gemini.

Close to Cua Lo Beach is Lan Chau Island, locally known as Cocoon Isle due to its resemblance to a giant cocoon stretching out into the vast sea. Lan Chau Island is simple and unassuming, extending towards the sea's edge—yet that very aspect is what attracts many tourists. People appreciate the tranquility, comfort, and the somewhat slowed pace of life here. Despite its proximity to Cua Lo Beach, Lan Chau Island retains a more untouched and less commercialized atmosphere. It's not an exaggeration when many praise Lan Chau as the most beautiful island in the Cua Lo Sea.

Lan Chau Island is located near the Cua Lo coast in Nghệ An, and locals also refer to it as Cocoon Isle because of its resemblance to a giant cocoon reaching out into the vast sea. Despite its proximity to Cua Lo Beach, Lan Chau Island is more pristine and simple, less affected by human activities and the commercialization of tourism.

The eastern part of Lan Chau Island features distinctive rocky cliffs extending into the sea, creating unique shapes that appear differently with each imagination. The western area connects to the mainland forming a peninsula, and to the north lies a stunningly beautiful beach. Lan Chau Island doesn't offer many activities or experiences; it's simply a place of retreat for those seeking a quiet haven, strolling on the white sandy shores, inhaling the salty scent of the sea, and immersing themselves in the dreamlike scenery.

The name might sound unfamiliar, but Săng Lẻ Forest in Tương Dương is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Nghệ An. What does Nghệ An tourism offer? Surely it includes experiences and captivating photo opportunities at this bamboo forest! The forest spans over 70 hectares with numerous towering bamboo trees reaching tens of meters high. National Highway 7 runs through the forest, hiding beneath the bamboo canopy, creating an impressive and romantic scene.

The area of Săng Lẻ Forest in Nghệ An is over 70 hectares, occupying a gigantic space to the west of the national park. The serene beauty of the bamboo forest recreates the peaceful picture of the local people. Therefore, for many, Săng Lẻ has become their inseparable companion. Amidst the crisp autumn sun, strolling through the bamboo forest, enjoying the sweetness of nature, watching the slow-motion scenes that are incredibly poetic, there is truly nothing happier. The playful golden rays play hide and seek among the tree branches, casting strong beams of light through the trees, illuminating a space, making it enchantingly beautiful.

Located 60 km from Mường Xén town (Kỳ Sơn), also known as the “Sa Pa of Nghệ An,” Mường Lống Sky Gate is a popular destination for adventurous young travelers when it comes to Nghệ An tourism. Mường Lống is a relatively new destination for backpacking, but when you arrive, you'll undoubtedly feel it's well worth the effort. Its name somewhat speaks of the artistic and majestic nature of this place, with mountains rising amid the surreal sea of clouds.

For those who enjoy cloud chasing or panoramic views of valleys and mountains from high mountain ranges, Mường Lống Sky Gate is a suitable spot. The diverse terrain here is suitable for activities like mountain climbing, camping, trekking, or simply taking photographs. This will undoubtedly be a beautiful photography spot in Nghệ An, where you can indulge in capturing the wonders of nature.

Mường Lống is an enticing destination for those who love exploring the beauty of the sky and discovering the unique culture of the highlands. It's a relatively new backpacking destination, but when you visit, you'll fall in love with the friendly and welcoming local people and the breathtaking natural landscape. The diverse terrain in the high mountains here is ideal for various outdoor activities such as mountain climbing, camping, or trekking into the villages.

Ho Chi Minh Museum of the Nghệ Tĩnh Soviet is located at 10 Đào Tấn Street, Vinh City, Nghệ An Province. Established on January 15, 1960, it is a branch of the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution. The museum is built on the land of Vinh, which was the place where thousands of revolutionary soldiers were detained during 1929 - 1931. In front of the museum, there is a monument - the place where Ho Chi Minh spoke to officials and people of Nghệ An when visiting his hometown in 1957.

This is a place preserving artifacts and original photos documenting the revolutionary movement in each locality. Collections include unique drums used in the struggle, an impressive collection of seals, a display of weapons, a collection of artifacts hiding Communist Party officials, and a list of the system of 49 historical sites of Nghệ Tĩnh Soviet ranked as national historical monuments by the Ministry of Culture and Information of Vietnam.

Ngư Island, also known as Pisces Island, is located over 4 km from Cửa Lò Beach. Pisces Island consists of two big and small rocks. The large rock is 133m high, and the small one is 88m above sea level. Scholars in the past such as Phan Huy Chú, Bùi Dương Lịch... described Pisces Island as 'Beautifully round, from a distance, it looks like two fish swimming on the waves.' This island serves as a wave barrier for Cửa Lò tourist area and is also a new and attractive tourist destination. For those who love exploration and closeness to nature, Ngư Island is undoubtedly a must-visit.

Pisces Island, in the eyes of the ancients, also holds a feng shui position in a region of great human and natural significance: 'Hong Linh is a high mountain. Pisces is a wide sea. Meeting a bright period of fortune. Blooming with talented people.' King Lê Thánh Tông, during his southern tours, often stopped his boat to rest and admire the scenery of the island, the sky, clouds, water, and composed poetic verses:

'The vast sea, tranquil and gently breathes.
Europe lies in the deserted bay, stretched out.
Three towers stand gracefully, all sacred and strange.
The island of fish clusters, green and stretched.'

Nestled within the poetic pine forest at an elevation of 97 meters above sea level, Quang Trung Emperor Temple is located on Dũng Quyết Mountain, Trung Đô Ward, Vinh City. After the great victory in the Spring of Kỷ Dậu 1789, Emperor Quang Trung undertook the task of building and consolidating the nation. The first and most important task was to choose a capital for the new dynasty. After visiting Nghệ An several times and recognizing it as a region of great significance, he appointed La Sơn, son of Nguyễn Thiếp - the chief librarian of Sùng chính thư viện, to build Phượng Hoàng Trung Đô in Yên Trường land, Châu Lộc district.

Although built in a short and urgent period, the city had inner and outer walls, and Thái Hòa Palace - where Emperor Quang Trung held court. Unfortunately, shortly after Phượng Hoàng was completed and the capital relocation plan was unfinished, Emperor Quang Trung suddenly passed away. Today, on the old dragon-shaped foundation, a monument to Phượng Hoàng Trung Đô has been erected to mark the location where the ancient capital once stood.

This is a cultural and spiritual work associated with tourism, meeting the needs of domestic and international visitors to contemplate, commemorate the merits of Emperor Quang Trung, and enjoy the scenery of a region with poetic rivers and mountains, a land rich in epic history, and a distinctive cultural identity of Nghệ An. Standing on the grounds of the temple of King Quang Trung, we can overlook the panoramic view of Vinh City, Hong Mountain, Lam River, Cửa Lò Beach, Ngư Island, Mắt Island, Tiên Điền Village - the homeland of the great poet Nguyễn Du, and the hometown of President Hồ Chí Minh.