A journey of spiritual revival amid pristine nature, combined with eco-resort relaxation at Hoang Nong Farm. Nestled within the sparse eastern forests of the Tam Dao range, where clear waters flow quietly through seven waterfalls, Cua Tu stream is a symphony of the great wilderness and the breath of untouched nature. In combination with the green resort model of Hoang Nong Farm, the 2-day trip to Dai Tu (Thai Nguyen) is not merely an excursion, but a deeply healing journey for the soul.
Reviving from the upstream
Only about 45km from the center of Thai Nguyen city, Cua Tu stream is located in Hoang Nong commune, Dai Tu district, hidden on the eastern slope of the Tam Dao range. Originating from the high mountains, the stream flows through rugged rocky terrains before merging into the Cong River, like a cool vein running through the dry summer heat of Northern Vietnam.
The name “Cua Tu” (Gate of Death) carries a fierce tone, yet behind it lies an enchanting beauty: seven cascading waterfalls, some forming deep turquoise natural pools perfect for a relaxing soak. Natural stone slides, cliff climbs, and forest crossings make the trekking route here both a challenge and a reward.
The Cua Tu stream trekking journey stretches from 3 to 5km, leading you through varying terrains like mountain slopes, boulders, and stream crevices. Each step reveals a surprising transition of scenery deep within the quiet forest. The entire trail remains untouched and pristine, unmarked by commercial tourism—like a vivid slice of Northern Vietnam’s great wilderness. There, you can experience sliding down natural waterfalls under proper and safe guidance—an activity both thrilling and captivating. And when the physical challenges ease, the tranquil space of the forest opens like a door inward—an ideal place for meditation, deep breathing, and reconnecting with your inner self.
Hoang Nong Farm – Stopping point for nature lovers
Located right at the foot of the mountain, just about 1km from Cua Tu stream, Hoang Nong Farm is an eco-resort model that promotes a sustainable, nature-friendly lifestyle. With its rustic homestay, self-sufficient garden, and warm home-cooked meals, it offers a true “retreat” for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Hoang Nong Farm is a simple yet cozy stopover, where minimalist rooms still provide full comfort, the wood stove glows beside the family-style meal, the lush vegetable garden thrives, and friendly dogs and cats feel like companions. Each day can begin with a gentle meditation session among tea bushes and end by the campfire, wrapped in mist and under a sky full of stars.“I don’t want this place to become a resort ‘beautiful by market standards.’ I hope it’s a place where people slow down and understand themselves more through interactions with nature—from a meal, a garden bed, or just the sound of morning birds echoing from the distant forest. At Hoang Nong, nature is your companion, not your backdrop,” shared Mr. Nguyen Van Tung, founder of Hoang Nong Farm.
Suggested itinerary: 2 days and 1 night amid the forests
Day 1:
- 08:00 – Leave your luggage at the farm, enjoy some tea and a light meal.
- 09:00 – Go trekking by Cua Tu Stream (hike through the forest – climb waterfalls – slide down natural streams)
- 14:00 – Return to the farm, take a nap in the wooden house
- 17:30 – Have a cozy dinner with local specialties
- 20:00 – Set up a campfire, go stargazing, chit-chat and play board games
Day 2:
- 06:00 – Enjoy morning tea and have a quick meditation while watching sunrise
- 07:30 – Have breakfast in the garden
- 09:00 – Do some gardening, visit the tea and vegetable farming area
- 11:00 – Check out, wave farewell to the mountains
Whether it’s summer with cool, refreshing waters perfect for stream bathing and waterfall sliding (May–September), or autumn and winter with crisp air ideal for meditation, light trekking, and watching the forest change color (October–March), Hoang Nong Farm always offers a fulfilling experience. From guided trekking routes with local experts, to warm home-cooked meals and private resting spaces amidst the mountains and forests—everything can be easily booked through the official fanpage to begin your healing journey in nature.
It’s no coincidence that those who’ve once set foot at Cua Tu stream always long to return—not to explore more, but to find stillness. Because in that place, the forest whispers stories, the stream washes away exhaustion, and a small homestay nestled in the mountains still keeps its warmth as it did from the beginning. “Some destinations aren’t found on a map, but in memory… where we once lived in sync with nature and with ourselves.”
HOANG NONG FARM
Hoang Nong Commune – Dai Tu District – Thai Nguyen Province
Fanpage: Hoàng Nông Farm
45 kilometers from Thai Nguyen City | Near Cua Tu Stream
