If you're already familiar with the bustling Lac commune or the lush green rice fields of Mai Chau valley, try venturing north to Tan Mai commune in Mai Chau, Hoa Binh. This isn't just an administrative area, it's a paradise for dreamers seeking absolute tranquility beside emerald-green lakes and majestic limestone mountains.
Where is Tan Mai commune in Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh province? (Latest update)
Tan Mai commune in Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh province, is located in the northern part of the district, about 15km from the center of Mai Chau town towards the Hoa Binh hydroelectric reservoir.
However, an important piece of information that backpackers and tourists need to note: Since January 1, 2020, according to a Resolution of the Standing Committee of the National Assembly, the old Tan Mai commune has been officially dissolved and merged with Ba Khan and Phuc San communes to form the new Son Thuy commune.
Where is Tan Mai commune in Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh province? (Latest update)
Although the name on the administrative map has changed, the name "Tan Mai" remains vivid in the hearts of tourists as a sign of one of the most beautiful lake-like landscapes in Northern Vietnam. It boasts the villages of Suoi Lon and Mo Rut – two wonderful stops with picturesque scenery, where high mountains embrace small, clear blue bays.
How to get to Tan Mai, Mai Chau, Hoa Binh: The route for wanderers.
The journey from Hanoi to Tan Mai, Mai Chau, Hoa Binh is approximately 140km. Depending on your personal preferences and budget, you can choose one of the following flexible transportation options:
Traveling by private vehicle (Self-driving car & motorbike)
This is the preferred choice for free spirits who want to be in control of their time and stop at any beautiful spot along the way, such as Thung Khe Pass or Mai Chau flagpole.
Route: From Hanoi, follow Thang Long Boulevard or National Highway 6 towards Hoa Binh. When you reach Tong Dau intersection, instead of turning into Mai Chau town center, continue straight towards Son La for about 3km until you see a sign directing you to turn onto the lakeside road to Tan Mai (Son Thuy).
The road along the lake is beautiful but has many hairpin bends and steep slopes. If you're riding a motorbike, make sure you have a firm grip on the handlebars and thoroughly check your brakes before you start.
High-quality passenger buses or limousines
If you want to take breaks along the way, buses are a very convenient and economical option.
By bus: You can take a bus from My Dinh or Yen Nghia bus station to Mai Chau (ticket price is approximately 120,000 - 150,000 VND). The bus will stop at Tong Dau intersection, from there you can take a motorbike taxi or regular taxi for another 10-15km to reach the center of Tan Mai commune.
Limousine: Currently, many limousine companies offer door-to-door service from Hanoi to Mai Chau, with prices ranging from 250,000 to 350,000 VND. Some reputable companies can drop you off near Suoi Lon area, reducing the need for transfers.
Professional shuttle service (Private Car)
For families with young children, elderly people, or groups of foreign guests who require absolute privacy and safety, the resort's shuttle service is the perfect solution.
You don't need to worry about finding your way or lugging your luggage through multiple transfers. Drivers familiar with the mountainous terrain will ensure a smooth and punctual journey.
For more details on available vehicles and special rates for guests, please check Mai Chau Hideaway's Car Rental Service.
Waterway experience (Boat from Thung Nai port)
One truly unique and adventurous way to travel is by water.
The journey: From Hanoi, travel to Thung Nai port (Cao Phong, Hoa Binh). From there, you can rent a motorboat to travel across Hoa Binh Lake to dock at Tan Mai commune (Son Thuy).
Instead of seeing the lake from above, you'll get to glide directly across the water, getting a close-up view of the magnificent limestone islands. This is a "double" experience, combining transportation and sightseeing, making it incredibly enjoyable before checking into the resort.
What makes Tan Mai beautiful? Experiences that "heal" the soul.
Why has Tan Mai Mai Chau, Hoa Binh become a "hot" keyword in the sustainable tourism community? The answer lies in the pristine experiences that you can hardly find anywhere else. Here, nature remains untouched by industrial development, offering you experiences you won't easily find elsewhere.
Exploring Ngoi Hoa Bay - the magnificent "Ha Long Bay in the mountains".
If Northern Vietnam boasts the world wonder Ha Long Bay, then Hoa Binh province is proud of Ngoi Hoa Bay – considered the heart of the Da River reservoir. The Tan Mai commune in Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh province, is the most beautiful gateway to admire the panoramic view of this "wonder in the mountains".
With 47 islands of varying sizes, composed of limestone and slate, rising above the water's surface, each turn of the boat reveals a new landscape. The steep cliffs, covered in moss and shrubs, create a striking contrast with the deep blue water.
What makes Tan Mai beautiful? Experiences that "heal" the soul.
During your boat trip on the lake, you'll visit magical caves hidden deep within the limestone mountains. The sound of water dripping from stalactites and the cool air inside the caves will make you feel like you've stepped into another world. Sitting on the boat, close your eyes to feel the cool breeze characteristic of the lake region, breathe in the scent of forest wood and the moisture from the water's surface. It's a wonderful "forest bathing" therapy for the mind.
Kayaking and bamboo rafting - Touching the "diamond waters"
While a motorboat ride offers panoramic views, kayaking or rafting provides a truly immersive connection with Tan Mai. Kayaking is the most popular recreational activity at Mai Chau Hideaway.
In the vast open space, the only sound breaking the silence is the splashing of oars. No engine noise, no dust, just you and nature. Paddling yourself allows you the freedom to explore small nooks and inlets that larger boats cannot reach. You can let the boat drift, lie down and gaze up at the clear blue sky, or reach out and touch the crystal-clear water, so transparent you can see schools of small fish swimming at the bottom.
If you want to experience authentic local culture, try rafting on a bamboo raft . This is a traditional mode of transportation for people living around the lake, offering a rustic and incredibly intimate experience.
Check-in at Go Lao Waterfall: A pristine white "love song" amidst the ancient forest.
Located just about 15 minutes from the center of Tan Mai commune (Son Thuy district), Go Lao Waterfall (also known as Go Mu Waterfall) is a must-see highlight on any trip to Tan Mai, Mai Chau, Hoa Binh.
The waterfall, approximately 20 meters high, cascades down from the cliff like a giant white silk ribbon draped across the deep green of the ancient forest. The roaring sound of the waterfall creates a majestic symphony of the Northwest mountains and forests.
Check-in at Go Lao Waterfall: A pristine white "love song" amidst the ancient forest.
The large rocks at the foot of the waterfall are the perfect spot for taking stunning photos for social media. On sunny days, sunlight filtering through the spray creates shimmering rainbows, transforming the area into a fairytale paradise. At the base of the waterfall are small natural pools where you can immerse yourself in the cool water to wash away the fatigue of a long journey.
Visiting the sturgeon farms and experiencing local life in Suoi Lon village.
The lives of the Thai and Muong ethnic minorities in Tan Mai commune, Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh province are closely tied to their livelihoods on the waterways. To understand Tan Mai, you must understand life on the floating cages.
Fishing on Da Lake: Visit the fish farms of the people in Suoi Lon hamlet, and you will be able to admire giant sturgeon and catfish weighing tens of kilograms. Try feeding the fish and listen to stories about the hard work but also the pride of the fishermen in the lake area.
Stilt House Culture: Leaving the water and going ashore, you'll encounter ancient stilt houses nestled on the mountainside. Life here unfolds at a slow pace: women sit weaving brocade on looms, smoke rises from thatched roofs in the evening mist. The sincerity and gentle smiles of the locals will make you feel incredibly warm.
Exquisite cuisine: Nothing beats enjoying sturgeon salad or grilled sturgeon right on the floating raft. The sweetness of the fresh fish, the spiciness of the mắc khén seeds, and the aroma of forest leaves will awaken all your senses.
Read more: Paragliding adventure Doi Bu – Experience the thrill of soaring above majestic hills
Mai Chau Hideaway: An ideal stopover in Tan Mai
Located on a beautiful peninsula in Suoi Lon hamlet, Tan Mai commune (now Son Thuy), Mai Chau Hideaway Lake Resort is the perfect answer to the question: "Where should I stay when visiting Tan Mai?".
Artistically designed accommodation
Each bungalow here is designed based on traditional wooden stilt house architecture but upgraded to international standards. With a variety of room options from cozy Superior rooms to luxurious Executive Suites, the only common feature is that all have balconies overlooking the lake. Waking up in the morning, simply open the window and the entire landscape of Tan Mai will be within your view.
-sm.jpg)
Artistically designed accommodation
Infinity pools - A symbol of relaxation.
It's no exaggeration to say that the infinity pool at Mai Chau Hideaway is one of the most beautiful in Vietnam. Built from natural stone with a panoramic view of Hoa Binh Lake, it's the perfect place to soak in the cool water, sip a cocktail, and watch the sunset over the misty mountains.
Northwestern Vietnamese cuisine at Bamboo Restaurant
When visiting Tan Mai, Mai Chau, Hoa Binh, you absolutely must try the exquisitely prepared local specialties. At Bamboo Restaurant , the rustic bamboo and thatched setting enhances the flavors of dishes such as fragrant grilled catfish, roasted and boiled wild boar, or sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes served with free-range chicken. Each meal here is not just about enjoying the food, but also about experiencing the culture.
Northwestern Vietnamese cuisine at Bamboo Restaurant
Suggested itinerary: 2 days and 1 night to escape the city.
If you only have two days over the weekend, let this itinerary help you recharge completely. This is the optimally designed schedule for groups who want to combine exploring the natural beauty of Tan Mai, Mai Chau, Hoa Binh with a luxurious resort experience.
Day 1: Hanoi - Thung Khe Pass - "House" by the lake
08:00 | Departure from Hanoi: You can drive yourself or use a car rental service to begin your journey along Thang Long Boulevard, heading towards Hoa Binh.
10:30 AM | Check-in at Thung Khe Pass: Stop at the summit of Da Trang Pass to enjoy grilled corn, grilled eggs, and admire the panoramic view of the valley shrouded in mist. This is the ideal time to take some impressive photos to kick off the journey.
12:00 | Lunch at Bamboo Restaurant: After arriving at the resort, begin your culinary journey at Bamboo Restaurant. Try the grilled catfish from the lake or the steamed free-range chicken with lime leaves to fully experience the flavors of the highlands.
14:00 | Check-in: Check in. Spend some time relaxing on the comfortable bed, gazing out the balcony at the tranquil, mirror-like surface of Tan Mai Lake.
15:30 | Sunset Kayaking: Head down to the resort's pier to begin your kayaking adventure. As the sun sets behind the limestone mountains, the entire lake turns a brilliant orange-yellow – a "golden" moment not to be missed.
17:00 | Relax at the infinity pool: Return and soak in the cool water. Immersing yourself in the sunset over Hoa Binh Lake is the most priceless "healing" experience here.
7:00 PM | Dinner and Thai Culture: Enjoy a cozy dinner with local specialties like rice wine. If you visit on a weekend, you'll also have the chance to watch traditional Xoe dance and Sap dance performances with the Thai ethnic people right at the resort.
Day 2: Cycling through the villages - Go Lao Waterfall - Hanoi
07:00 | Yoga and Breakfast: Start your day with some gentle yoga poses on the wooden deck by the lake, then enjoy a buffet breakfast with a variety of European and Asian dishes.
08:30 | Cycling to explore Suoi Lon village: Rent a bicycle at the resort and leisurely cycle along the winding road through lush green bamboo forests to visit Suoi Lon village. You will see ancient stilt houses and plum and peach orchards belonging to the local people.
10:00 AM | Conquering Go Lao Waterfall: Continue your journey to Go Lao Waterfall. Try a light trekking down to the foot of the waterfall to feel the cool spray of water on your face and listen to the majestic music of the mountains and forests.
11:30 | Visit the fish farms on the lake: Visit the sturgeon farms of fishermen in Tan Mai commune, Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh province. Here, you can choose to buy fresh fish, dried bamboo shoots, or forest honey as gifts for your loved ones.
12:30 | Check-out and lunch: Enjoy one last lunch at the restaurant before saying goodbye to Tan Mai.
2:00 PM | Boarding the bus back: Ending our city escape trip, we leave with a refreshed spirit and beautiful commemorative photos of a picturesque lakeside area.
If you have more time, consider booking tours that combine a visit to Pa Co (Sunday market) or Hang Kia for cloud watching.
Read more: Mai Chau Bus: Complete guide from Hanoi routes to local travel options
See also: Pu Pin Mai Chau - Touching the clouds on the highest peak in Hoa Binh
Things to note when traveling to Tan Mai independently.
To ensure a complete and safe adventure to the Tan Mai Lake area in Mai Chau, Hoa Binh, you need to keep the following practical tips in mind:
Clothing & Weather: Due to the unique topography of the lake and the surrounding primeval forest, the temperature in Tan Mai commune, Mai Chau district, Hoa Binh province is always 3-5°C lower than in the lowlands. Even in the middle of summer, the wind blowing in from the Da River lake will make you feel chilly at night. Always prepare a light windbreaker or scarf to protect your health while watching the sunrise over the lake.
Footwear & Transportation: The terrain here is a mix of winding mountain passes and trails leading to villages. A pair of athletic shoes with good grip is essential if you want to experience trekking to Go Lao Waterfall or cycling through the bamboo forest. Don't forget to bring a pair of sandals/water slippers for convenience when kayaking or rafting.
Things to note when traveling to Tan Mai independently.
Road safety: The lakeside road leading to Son Thuy commune (formerly Tan Mai) is very beautiful but has many hairpin bends and steep slopes. If you are driving a motorbike, make sure you are a confident driver and avoid traveling after 6 PM as fog around the lake can reduce visibility to less than 5 meters.
Booking & Services: Since Tan Mai is a newly emerging tourist area and the number of luxury rooms at Mai Chau Hideaway is very limited, you should proactively book at least 2 weeks in advance. Contact hotline 02186288899 |+ (84)963406366 | 0987536787. Booking early not only helps you secure rooms with 360-degree views of Ngoi Hoa Bay but also helps the resort best prepare for your special requests.
Environmental awareness: Tan Mai is a pristine "green gem," so please be a responsible tourist. Absolutely do not litter in the lake and limit the use of single-use plastics to help the local community preserve the original beauty of this heritage area.
Tan Mai Mai Chau, Hoa Binh, is more than just a destination; it's an experience of freedom and tranquility. Whether you're here seeking adventure by kayaking on the lake or simply want to relax by the infinity pool and gaze at the clouds, this land always has a way to soothe your soul.
Let Mai Chau Hideaway accompany you on your journey to discover this green gem. The combination of Tan Mai's pristine beauty and world-class resort services will surely create unforgettable memories.