Vietnam has a great deal to recommend it as a destination for activity-based holidays, particularly cycling and trekking.

The predominantly flat terrain of the Red River Delta near Hanoi and Mekong Delta of the south are both perfect for biking trips through rural areas, where you’ll gain a vivid impression of farming and village life. In Hanoi city itself, the lanes running around Ho Hoan Kiem and West Lake make for atmospheric rides in the early morning, when the locals practise their Tai Chi and the flower sellers are setting up their stalls outside the pagodas. The rice fields surrounding Hué and Hoi An are also ideal for serene half-day cycles.

All of the above can be fitted into a regular tour of Vietnam. We’ll arrange for the bikes and guide to be ready on arrival.

Alongside cycle tours it’s worth considering a hill trek in the forested valleys around Sapa, where villages of Thai and H’mong minority people welcome visitors. Another beautiful trekking area is the Mai Chau Valley, a couple of hours south of Hanoi. In addition to a comparable ethnic mix and some wonderful scenery, Mai Chau holds a particularly lovely eco lodge you can use as a base for day walks. Longer, multi-stage treks involving overnight stays in H’mong villages may also be arranged.

Whatever kind of activity holiday you’re considering in Vietnam, give one of our specialist consultants a call for the latest tips.