This 25 mile loop involves biking through Hanoi and some of its surrounding countryside. Pass by floating pottery villages on the banks of the Red River, flower gardens, through village lanes, alongside lotus lakes and one of the most revered Buddhist pagodas in Vietnam. Avoid the traffic and see a side of Hanoi that’s almost impossible to discover alone.

You begin by cycling towards the Old Quarter, along the way glimpsing into the heart of everyday Hanoi life – families taking their children to school, traders selling all kinds of wares and people sitting at street side stalls eating Pho and drinking tea. Cross the Red River over the iconic Long Bien Bridge which was completed in 1902 and rub shoulders with locals on their way to work. Quickly leaving the city behind the route weaves out into open farmland along the banks of the Red River. Board a small local ferry to cross a small river and emerge on the north shore. Ride along a dyke road with views of the river and farmland dotted with small villages and rice fields. The route criss-crosses through unvisited villages before crossing the Thang Long Bridge and lunch at a riverside café.

After lunch ride to the north end of Hanoi’s largest lake, Tay Ho. Cruise along the edge of the lake, passing lotus gardens to one of the most revered Buddhist pagodas in Vietnam. Take a wander though the pagoda. Peddle onwards through quiet back streets to experience suburban life before heading back to your hotel. Estimated time of return is late afternoon. This program may alter due to local conditions, ambient levels of fitness and other unexpected circumstances. We will do our very best to adhere to the set itinerary, but last minute changes may occur.