Mai Chau village > Te village > Don village > Ba Thuoc

The lush green fields stretch out as far as the eye can see. The peaceful atmosphere of the countryside makes anyone staying here feel relaxed and refreshed. Can I wake up to this impressive sight every day?

We had a bowl of hot noodle soup with freshly picked vegetables from the field and a banana pancake for breakfast.

Another morning stroll around the different villages. The locals working in the fields and tending their crops with care. At times, we shared the same path with the cows and buffalos. With the different vegetation landscape and witnessing the simple daily routine of the hardworking locals, all these elements add charm to our morning walk.

Midway through the hike, we decided to get some freshly cut and juiced sugarcane. The stall owner is a teenage girl who has a great passion for soccer.

We saw a group of kids watching a woman catching small fish from a mud pool. I could see the joy of happiness in their faces. Children enjoy exploring the natural surroundings and playing with each other. Being here makes one appreciate the simple little things in life.

The hike continued to another village where we had our lunch. This morning, we walked roughly 7.5km.

Run by the family member of the previous night’s homestay, the restaurant had recently opened its door. The home-cooked dishes we had for lunch were delicious as everything was fresh from the crop. Truly farm-to-table concept lunch.

The 5km hike after lunch was breathtaking. The beautiful terraced paddy field and the endless rolling hills landscape were astonishing. The most challenging part of the hike was walking down the road that wound its way through the hill. We love the outdoors and can appreciate the beauty of nature.

The final lap was an uphill hike to the resort, where we spent the night. A beautiful waterfall with many levels sat along the pathway. Water cascaded down the rocks, splashing and gushing sounds accompanied us. Thus, it was a therapeutic instead of a tiring hike.

The lodge, located at midhill, has a big compound including one big fish pond. All rooms are standalone with the design of its traditional stilt house.

There are two waterfalls or maybe one that split into two. The one at the entrance has a bigger pool and calm water, and the other at the backyard is deep with rushing water.

The room for the night was steps away from the deep waterfall. With careful steps, we walk across the bamboo bridge to sense the splashing water of the fall. The water was cold. What an unwinding treat after a long hike. Next was to soak our legs in the calmer pool. Is it our first time to step into the pool of a waterfall?

We had our dinner without the guide and driver. They both joined the owner’s family and friends instead. As usual, the family would have a drink with us.

Overnight at Les Bain De Hieu Ecolodge

The light in the room was not bright enough, or perhaps we were used to a environment that was brighter. The bathroom and toilet are separated but just opposite the room. The white noise from the waterfall was soothing and enhanced our sleep. Together with the occasional insects chirping and leaves rustling, what a relaxing night to experience.