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Hue has long been renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, where grandeur meets poetic beauty. When visiting this ancient capital, most travelers head to the Imperial Citadel, the residence of the 13 Nguyen emperors, the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, the majestic tombs of Khai Dinh and Tu Duc, or the peaceful Perfume River and Ngur Binh Mountain. Few know that beneath the Gia Phu Pass lies the stunning Lap An Lagoon.
Lap An Lagoon – A Dreamy Realm, Surreal, and Elegant
Officially named Lap An, this beautiful lagoon is also known by locals as Vung An Cu. It is the largest brackish water lagoon in Hue and part of the stunning Lang Co Bay. Covering an area of over 800 hectares, the lagoon nestles peacefully at the foot of Gia Phu Pass, surrounded by the majestic Bach Ma mountain range.
Wondering if there's anywhere more beautiful than this - Photo: Fox Beta
Lap An Lagoon holds a special place in my childhood memories. I vividly remember one summer when I was 13, traveling with my family to visit Hue, my beloved maternal hometown. Just as we neared the boundary between Da Nang and Hue, I was struck by an incredibly beautiful sight – a vast lagoon with mist gently floating above it. I couldn’t take my eyes off it, captivated by the otherworldly scenery. Back then, 3G and Wi-Fi were not as widespread, and I didn’t have a phone to look up the location. So, I carried the image of that nameless place in my heart all these years. And now, I finally have the answer to my own question. I just hope that life's worries — the grind of daily life — won't pull me away from my dream, allowing me to return to see if Lap An has changed much.
Perhaps Lap An has changed over time, more people now visit and explore the place. Yet, I’m confident that the beauty remains unchanged — still serene, dreamy, and endless.
The surface of the lagoon is perfectly still, and many travelers silently wish their minds could be as calm - Photo: Fox Beta
Lap An is truly beautiful – almost like a mystical paradise, but perhaps not suited for those who prefer the glitz and bustle. Many may be drawn in by glowing descriptions, but I can assure you that those visiting Lap An for domestic tourism will quickly lose interest. Lap An is meant for those with a quiet soul, accustomed to tranquility, warmth, and solitude.
If you're looking for a true peaceful retreat, then Lap An is the place. Anytime is perfect to visit because Lap An never disappoints anyone. The picturesque landscape will take you from surprise to awe, then to warmth, calm, and ultimately, peace of mind.
Each morning, as the sun rises, the lagoon is bathed in glimmering beams of light, resembling a giant mirror reflecting the magical glow. Or in the evening, as the sun sets, it leaves behind a vast, endless lagoon, enveloped by mist — an indescribable beauty that will fill your soul.
The tranquil sunset descends upon Lap An Lagoon, bidding farewell to another day - Photo: VnExpress
A trip to Lập An not only offers a chance to seek tranquility and peace but also fosters a sense of empathy between people. Perhaps the scenery here encourages a life free from the hustle and bustle, where each passing day is filled with calmness and steady work.
A woman quietly harvesting oysters in Lập An lagoon - Photo: Internet
The main occupation of the locals is setting nets to catch fish, collecting clams, or farming oysters. Watching these humble figures carefully cast their nets across the vast lagoon or patiently gather clams buried deep in the sand, or pry open oysters hiding beneath the water’s surface, instantly evokes a warm smile and a deep affection for the simple and familiar scene. It’s a feeling that’s hard to fully express in words.
If you have ever fallen for Hue, then you, like me, will continue to love the endless beauty of the waters and landscapes of Lập An.
