4 min read
The Hai Van Pass — the “Ocean Cloud Pass” — is the mountain road that climbs over the Trường Sơn range between Da Nang and Huế. For decades it was the white-knuckle main highway; now most traffic takes the tunnel below, leaving the old road to its switchbacks, sea views and the travellers who come just for the drive. Top Gear once called it one of the best coast roads in the world, and they were right.
Why it’s special
The pass tops out around 500 metres, with the East Sea on one side and forested mountains on the other. The road bends and climbs through layers of cloud and ocean haze, and on a clear morning the views down to Da Nang and Lăng Cô are some of the finest in Vietnam.
What you’ll see
At the summit sit the weathered stone gates of Hải Vân Quan, an old fort that once guarded the route — and a viewpoint worth every minute. Drop down the far side and the Lăng Cô peninsula unfurls: a long golden sandbar, fishing boats, and the still, mirror-like water of Lập An Lagoon, unforgettable at sunset.
Pair it with a waterfall
The pass is best as part of a fuller day. Many travellers add a trek to a hidden jungle waterfall for a cool swim, then finish at Lập An Lagoon on the way home. Heading the other way, the same road carries on to Huế and its imperial citadel.
How to do it well
Go in the morning for the clearest views, before the cloud builds. If you are not a confident motorbike rider, don’t ride it — the drops are real. The relaxed way is by private car with a local driver who knows where to stop, so you can keep your eyes on the view rather than the road.
Marvelous Adventures
Ready to see it for yourself?
Ride the legendary Hai Van Pass, trek to a hidden jungle waterfall for a swim, and finish at the mirror-calm Lap An Lagoon.