A romp through the Central Highlands “is a ride to be savoured, both for scenery and for sheer riding pleasure,” says Vietnam Coracle. “Many sections are brand new: in excellent condition as they pass through dense jungle, cutting dangerous passes along steep ravines, meandering, like a river of asphalt, through rolling farmland.” And the area between Hue, Hoi An and My Son is often dubbed The Golden Triangle, explains the Coracle. “Many people choose to travel by motorbike between Hoi An and Hue, via the scenic Hai Van Pass.”
“Set off in the cool of the morning” and cycle three kilometres out of Hue, advises Wanderlust, and you’ll find the Tiger Fighting arena -- “Vietnam’s version of the Colosseum, a place where elephants and tigers would fight to honour the strength of the monarchy.” Then head to Tu Duc Tomb before reaching Vong Canh Hill, “the best spot for panoramic views of the Perfume River,” a place that has “always played an important part in Vietnamese history and is dotted with important historical sites.” From there “it’s downhill to one of Hue's most atmospheric pagodas, Tu Hieu, which is located in a tranquil and picturesque pine forest.”
“A 134 mile stretch of highway that is truly spectacular,” is how Tripsavvy describes the Nha Trang-Quy Nhon road trip. “The mountain scenery on the inland side of this road is matched by the stunning sea views and lovely golden beaches on the ocean side of the road … it is easy to stretch this trip into a vacation, as there are so many lovely towns and villages to stop along the way.” This is Vietnam “at its best,” says Fin Nomads. “Sometimes we left the main road and stopped by in random small villages where we apparently shocked the locals’ day with our appearance … many people looked like they had never seen foreigners before … they will probably talk about the weird visitors in the village at least for a week.”