Located more than two hours away from Hanoi, Sam Tang Lake in Thanh Son commune, Mai Chau district is the highest mountain lake in Hoa Binh province. Surrounding Sam Tang are bowl-shaped grass hills, forming green steppes around the lake.

Located more than two hours away from Hanoi, Sam Tang Lake in Thanh Son commune, Mai Chau district is the highest mountain lake in Hoa Binh province. Photo: Bao Quang Ninh

The lake is located in Thanh Son commune, formerly known as Noong Luong commune, Mai Chau district, located at an altitude of 1,280 m above sea level, inhabited by the Thai and Muong ethnic groups.

Sam Tang Lake is considered the "rough pearl" of Hoa Binh, about 2.7 hectares wide. The lake surface is calm all year round and the crystal clear water reflects the grass hills along the lake.

Before 1973, the lake was just a large stream. Due to the need for agricultural production, local people in Mai Chau then built a dam around the area. According to the Center for Investment, Trade, and Tourism Promotion of Hoa Binh province, it has become the main source of domestic water supply and irrigation for 400 hectares of agricultural land in the commune.

Tourists should visit the lake in the afternoon when the sun begins to set and create a majestic scenery. Photo: Bao Quang Ninh

Tourists should visit the lake in the afternoon when the sun begins to set and create a majestic scenery. Aside from taking photos, people can bring items for picnics and camping. The lake is quite deep, so they should not go in to bathe. Around 5:00 p.m., they can watch the sunset at the lake or relax on the grass hill.

Within a radius of 2 km from the lake, there are several homestays, priced from 700,000 VND (US$27.63) - 1,000,000 VND (US$39.47) per room per night. Visitors can stay overnight here to visit Thung waterfall the next day, which is about 18 km from the lake.

Nguyen Ngoc Tuan, owner of a homestay near Sam Tang Lake, said that since the beginning of this year, Sam Tang Lake has become known to many people through pictures and videos posted by tourists on social networks. He suggests that tourists should come here in the summer to feel the cool atmosphere of the mountains and hills and avoid the intense heat.

Sam Tang Lake is a rare gem of Mai Chau. Photo: Bao Quang Ninh

Set in an idyllic valley, Mai Chau offers a mesmerizing landscape, rich ethnic culture, unique cuisines, and a wide range of outdoor adventures. This town is an ideal place to escape from Hanoi's hustle.

Step into the mesmerizing beauty of Mai Chau Vietnam, a hidden gem that embodies the essence of Vietnam travel. This picturesque destination invites tourists to embark on a captivating journey of vibrant culture, traditional villages, and breathtaking landscapes.

Situated in Hoa Binh province, Mai Chau is about a 4-hour drive Northwest of the center of Hanoi. The distance from Hanoi to Mai Chau is approximately 150 kilometers, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway from the bustling city.

Mai Chau weather features a humid subtropical climate. It has two distinct seasons. The rainy season from May to October brings lush greenery and rejuvenates the surrounding landscapes. The dry season from November to April provides a refreshing respite from the summer heat.

Aside from taking photos, people can bring items for picnics and camping. Photo: Bao Quang Ninh

Once in Mai Chau, tourists can rent bikes, electric cars, and motorbikes to explore the surroundings. Bicycles are favored for a leisurely exploration of villages and immersing in local culture. Electric cars offer convenience for Mai Chau attractions while renting a motorbike allows greater freedom to discover hidden gems.

Mai Chau Vietnam is renowned for its captivating landscapes and vibrant culture. With a harmonious blend of rolling hills, verdant rice paddies, and charming villages, Mai Chau offers a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

A homestay in Sam Tang Lake. Photo: Bao Quang Ninh

Mai Chau is home to six distinct ethnic minority groups, with the Thai people comprising the majority, making up 65.14% of the total population. Following closely are the Muong and Hmong communities. These ethnic groups have preserved their traditional customs, handicrafts, and unique way of life, creating a fascinating cultural tapestry.

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