Yen Trung Lake: Embracing a relaxing weekend vibe

Address: Yen Tu Ward (formerly Uong Bi City), Quang Ninh Province

Yen Trung Lake has fairly deep, crystal-clear water and is embraced by rolling hills and lush green pine trees. Situated right on National Highway 18A connecting Hanoi and Ha Long, and only about 30km from Hai Phong, it is very convenient for traveling to many other prominent attractions. The first impression upon arrival is the emerald-green water and the joyful whispering of the pine trees. 

Since admission is free, you only need to pay for small service fees such as renting boats, hammocks, or huts. The meticulously tended flower garden area charges an entrance fee of 50,000 VND. Meanwhile, camping rental fees range from about 150,000 VND to 300,000 VND per tent, which is worth noting. 

The road leading to Yen Trung Lake presents a completely different appearance from what you might imagine about the dusty paths of the mining land. Pine forests flank both sides of the road, and the deeper you go inside, the more distinct and vibrant the lush green space becomes. After traveling to Uong Bi, Quang Ninh, you will see a directional sign leading to Yen Trung. From here, just drive another 1km and you will arrive. 

If departing from Hanoi along National Highway 18A, you will travel about 115km, which takes less than 3 hours to reach the lake. In addition, Yen Trung Lake is located only about 40km from Ha Long Bay, making it very convenient for those who wish to combine a sightseeing trip to the bay and stay overnight. 

 

Visiting Yen Trung Lake, it is not difficult to catch sight of rows of towering pine trees lining both sides of the road. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll, lean against the sturdy tree trunks, and enjoy the sunlight filtering down through the foliage. Though rustic and pristine, the soaring pine slopes serve as a special highlight that creates an irresistible poetic charm. Therefore, a handy tip for visitors to Yen Trung Lake is to fully charge your phone battery if you want to freely snap photos in the pine forest. 

The most irresistible highlight of Yen Trung Lake perhaps lies in the tranquil freshwater expanse spanning over 100ha, mirroring the deep blue sky. Along the lake, numerous pine trees cast their shadows across the water surface, creating a truly serene scene. Looking into the distance, you can see rolling mountain ranges and lush surrounding vegetation that further adorn the poetic beauty of Yen Trung Lake. 

If you wish, you can rent a boat to cruise around the lake at an extremely affordable rate of just 30,000 VND/hour, or from 80,000 VND - 100,000 VND/hour (for kayaks). Drifting across the lake surface will be a unique experience that is hard to find anywhere else. 

Camping is an exciting activity embraced by many visitors, especially youth, at Yen Trung Lake. Amidst the fresh, cool, and somewhat romantic ambiance, camping and having a weekend picnic is an ideal pastime. You do not need to prepare too much—simply bring a tent and some light snacks like sweet potatoes and corn to roast, and enjoy chatting under the pleasant sky and poetic scenery. 

Tips for an ideal camping trip: 

Prepare necessary items for unpredictable rains: Bring tarps and waterproof bags. 

Bring enough drinking water and additional water filtration devices if necessary. 

Bring tents, camping gear, tie-down straps... 

Prepare food and compact cooking utensils such as a mini gas stove if you wish to cook yourself. 

The Garden of Eden is a popular attraction loved by many young travelers and couples at Yen Trung Lake. Visiting this place, you can take in the panoramic view of the azure lake and capture commemorative photos at meticulously decorated spots. Furthermore, Yen Trung Lake is also the backdrop for stunning wedding photo albums. An example is the Love Bridge, a witness to countless couples before tying the knot. The bridge features romantic architecture, painted in vibrant red, and adorned with numerous wreaths, love locks, and sparkling LED lights... 

Once visiting Yen Trung Lake, savoring delicious dishes at nearby restaurants is a must. For example: 

Hiep Ga Restaurant

Address: Yen Trung, Uong Bi, Quang Ninh Province

In the cool, crisp atmosphere of Yen Trung Lake, nothing beats enjoying grilled chicken and grilled pork. The restaurant adopts a rustic, homely style so that diners can enjoy the most comfortable dining experience. 

Quoc Chien 9999 Restaurant

Address: Phuong Dong Commune, Uong Bi, Quang Ninh

A restaurant with a wide, breezy open space serving many delicious Quang Ninh specialties. Diners can also enjoy the cool breeze amidst a rustic design featuring brown as the dominant color tone. 

Nang Yen Trung Restaurant

Address: Yen Trung, Uong Bi, Quang Ninh

Nang Restaurant is only about 550m from Yen Trung Lake and is built in an airy garden style close to nature. Notably, the restaurant also offers appealing combo meals with great deals for large groups. 

The period from April to September is the best time to visit and admire Yen Trung Lake. Leaving behind the urban dust and bustle, you will return to a lush green sanctuary filled with open-air breezes. If you plan to camp overnight, do not miss the two most beautiful moments of the day: sunrise and sunset. 

- Do not swim or fish in Yen Trung Lake as the deep water is very dangerous; instead, visit a natural waterfall nearby, just about 3km away. 

- You may bring a BBQ grill, but do not light fires inside the forest or near the bases of pine trees being tapped for resin, as they easily catch fire. 

- Clean up trash after eating and camping. 

- Bring personal identification documents and some cash for spending and deposits. 

- There are reasonably priced hotels located around 500m from the lake. 

Located not too far from the capital Hanoi, the green space at Yen Trung Lake offers us an opportunity to relax our minds and recharge energy with loved ones. Even more remarkably, the Yen Trung Lake tourism area has been officially recognized as a provincial-level ecotourism destination.