Beyond the golden sunshine, turquoise waters, and world-famous scenery of Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh reveals a quiet, poetic beauty in winter. As the year draws to a close, journeys to the northeastern highlands where mountain ranges unfold, silver grass blankets rolling hills, and daily life deeply rooted in ethnic cultural traditions have become an increasingly appealing choice for travelers in search of authenticity and serenity.

Leaving behind the bustle of urban life, the routes leading to Quang Ninh’s northeastern mountainous areas in late December offer a refreshing change of pace. As the crisp winter air of the borderlands sets in, nature begins a subtle yet enchanting transformation.

One of the most captivating destinations is the former district of Binh Lieu, often described as Quang Ninh’s “mini Sa Pa.” Winter here is defined not only by its cool climate, but also by vast hillsides covered in white silver grass stretching across mountain slopes. Once lush and green in summer, the hills now glow softly under a blanket of white, creating a peaceful and dreamlike landscape.

From the iconic Border Marker 1305, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking views where mist drifts through mountain ridges at dawn, evoking the sensation of standing above the clouds. The experience of trekking along the famous “dinosaur spine” trail in temperatures as low as 5-6°C has become a highlight for adventure lovers and photographers alike.

The growing appeal of highland tourism in Quang Ninh is no coincidence. Years of consistent investment in transport infrastructure have significantly improved accessibility. With the completion of major expressways and upgraded inter-district roads, travel from coastal and urban centers to mountainous destinations now takes just a few hours, making winter getaways both convenient and comfortable.

While Binh Lieu embodies the majestic spirit of the borderlands, the former district of Tien Yen offers a more nostalgic and contemplative charm. Winter in Tien Yen’s old quarter feels timeless, with streets lined by Chinese-French architecture and softened by morning mist. Wandering through the narrow lanes, savoring a steaming bowl of pho or a slice of rich khau nhuc, visitors can truly slow down and immerse themselves in local life.

On Saturday evenings, Tien Yen’s pedestrian street comes alive with vibrant cultural activities, from folk games and ethnic costume displays to calligraphy corners, street music, and dance performances. Local residents prepare and serve signature dishes rich in eastern Quang Ninh flavors, turning each visit into a warm and memorable cultural exchange.

Further inland, winter tourism in Dai Duc (Dong Ngu Commune) offers a more intimate connection with nature and community life. This tranquil mountain area preserves the unspoiled beauty of northeastern Quang Ninh and the cultural heritage of the San Chi ethnic people. Visitors can join community-based tourism activities, enjoy misty mornings over terraced fields, sit by a glowing fire, listen to traditional Soong Co folk songs, and share home-cooked meals with local families, which can be seen as simple moments that leave lasting impressions.

A winter journey through northeastern Quang Ninh would be incomplete without visiting the cinnamon and tea hills of Ba Che. In winter, the distinctive aroma of cinnamon drifts through villages, adding a unique sensory layer to the landscape. Here, travelers can explore eco-friendly farming models, learn about environmental protection initiatives, and experience tourism activities aligned with sustainability, reflecting Quang Ninh’s long-term vision for responsible tourism development.

Though challenges related to seasonality and service quality remain, highland tourism in Quang Ninh is steadily evolving. With strong commitment and strategic planning, the province aims to transform its northeastern region into a competitive destination for cultural and eco-tourism by 2030 while maintaining its vital role in national border security.

A winter journey to northeastern Quang Ninh is more than a scenic escape. It is an invitation to witness transformation, resilience, and quiet beauty. Amid the silver grass of Binh Lieu, the folk melodies of Ba Che, or a warm cup of herbal wine in Tien Yen, travelers can feel the genuine hospitality, cultural richness, and emerging vitality of this remarkable frontier land.

By Viet Anh