Road Cycling Hanoi to Hoi An

From the lofty peaks of the Truong Son Mountains to the sandy shores of the Gulf of Tonkin, this is a Vietnamese road cycling dream come true. Riders test their endurance over roughly 1,000 kilometres of diverse terrain, uncovering vestiges of former empires, the legacies of the Vietnam-America War, striking limestone formations, shimmering lagoons and vibrant cultures. They go local in Vietnam's further-flung regions and enjoy elevated comfort near some of the country's most treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

After a transfer out of Hanoi, the route climbs the Thung Khe Pass and descends into the Mai Chau Valley, known for its rice paddies and ethnic stilt house villages, then follows the Song Ma River into the rolling hills of Thanh Hoa Province. Over three days, riders hit the smooth tarmac of the Ho Chi Minh Highway, built atop the historic Ho Chi Minh Trail, past jungle-clad mountains and expansive farmlands. A rest day in Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park is spent exploring some of the world's most striking caves and underground rivers.

The final four days follow the Central Coast through fishing villages, scenic shorelines and tranquil lagoons. Highlights include the war-era Vinh Moc Tunnels, Hue's glittering Imperial Citadel and a beach stay at Lang Co, before a winding climb over the iconic Hai Van Pass leads to Hoi An, renowned for its Old World charm. Accommodation is basic but comfortable in small inland towns and more elevated on the coast.

Highlights:

• Climb Thung Khe Pass and descend into the rice paddies and stilt house villages of Mai Chau
• Ride the smooth, fast tarmac of the Ho Chi Minh Highway, including the Trail's "Kilometer Zero" marker
• Explore Paradise Cave on foot and Phong Nha Cave by boat in a UNESCO-listed national park
• Visit the Vinh Moc Tunnels and Hue's UNESCO-listed Imperial City
• Skirt Tam Giang Lagoon and the "City of Ghosts" cemetery along the Central Coast
• Conquer the iconic Hai Van Pass before finishing in the UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An

Surface and terrain:
Fully paved, from excellent Ho Chi Minh Highway tarmac to rougher secondary roads with potholes and debris, plus short gravel and sand sections on the coast. Hilly with consistent climbs in the first half, flatter along the coast apart from Hai Van Pass. Average climbing is 915m/day.

Weather:
Varies by region. Hanoi and the north are cooler and dry from November to April, while central Vietnam is hot and dry from January to August (mid 30s°C) with heavy rain from September to November. Rain is possible year-round and riding continues rain or shine.

Suitable for:
Rated "Endurance". Best for experienced road cyclists capable of back-to-back century rides. Less experienced riders are welcome but should train in advance, with the support vehicle always nearby. Group size 2-12, minimum age 18.