Surrounded by natural beauty and cultural treasures, Da Nang is an ideal base for those seeking to discover central Vietnam. With a prized spot on one of the country’s most celebrated beaches, it’s equally perfect for simply relaxing beside the waves. Make yourself at home in a luxury retreat overlooking the sands. Then spend days exploring historic sites, and nights sampling authentic cuisine from one of the region’s culinary capitals.
HISTORY
Da Nang may be a city of cutting-edge architecture and sleek beach resorts. But a short drive away are the ancient, awe-inspiring ruins of My Son Sanctuary. Partly swallowed by the surrounding jungle, these towering temples were once the spiritual heartland of the Champa – a civilisation that drew on Indian Hinduism. Spot intricately carved gods and goddesses, created between the 4th and 14th centuries. Then pay a visit to the Museum of Cham Sculpture in Da Nang to learn more about this lost kingdom.
BEACHES
Da Nang marks the gateway to one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches – 30km of icing sugar sands, named China Beach by American soldiers. The section closest to the city, My Khe, sweeps around a tranquil bay to the Son Tra peninsula. If you’re feeling energetic, climb up to Son Tra Peak – also known as Monkey Mountain. At the top is the Linh Ung Buddha statue and a Buddhist monastery – as well as spectacular city and coastal views.
FOOD
Whether it’s a quick bite from a humble street stall or an imperial banquet, every dish in central Vietnam is a work of art. Regional fare from neighbouring Hoi An is famed nationwide. Sample specialities including cao lau – a succulent noodle and pork dish flavoured with mint and star anise. Or book onto a cooking course to discover some of the secrets of this delicious cuisine. You may even master the perfect balance of salty, sour, bitter, sweet and spicy flavours.
Step back into Vietnam’s regal past at the Imperial City of Hue, home to majestic temples and ornate, colourful palaces.