The reunion tour of North Australian Vespa riders has once again brought adventure, camaraderie, and an unforgettable journey through Vietnam’s most breathtaking landscapes. After last year’s successful ride to Nha Trang, the group was eager to return and experience another thrilling route—this time, an eight-day ride from the upper Mekong Delta, through the central highlands, and along the stunning coastal roads leading to Hue and Hoi An.
The trip kicked off in the vibrant riverfront towns of the Mekong Delta, where the group rode past emerald-green rice paddies, stilted wooden houses, and bustling floating markets. Riding a vintage vespa along these rural paths provided a sense of immersion that no other mode of travel could match. With each stop, they met friendly locals, sipped fresh coconut water straight from the shell, and sampled steaming bowls of hu tieu—a local noodle dish beloved across southern Vietnam.
Climbing into the Central Highlands
Leaving the river landscapes behind, the group began their ascent into the central highlands, a region known for its cool climate, pine-covered hills, and rich coffee plantations. The winding roads leading up to Dalat provided some of the most scenic riding conditions in Vietnam. The riders weaved through misty mountain passes, stopping at roadside stalls for freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee—strong, bold, and sweetened with condensed milk.
Dalat’s French colonial charm was on full display, with its old-world villas, flower-filled streets, and picturesque lakes. The group took a well-earned break, strolling through the city’s bustling night market before preparing for the next stretch of the adventure.
The Road to Hue and Hoi An on a Vespa Scooter
The transition from the highlands to the coast was marked by a dramatic descent, revealing sweeping ocean views as the road hugged the mountainside. This stretch of the journey was one of the most anticipated, taking the group along the Hai Van Pass—often considered one of the most breathtaking coastal roads in the world.
The exhilarating ride along the pass was a highlight of the trip, with sweeping curves, panoramic views of the East Sea, and a sense of total freedom as they rode through the clouds. Each turn revealed a new breathtaking vista, making frequent stops for photos an absolute must.
As the riders rolled into Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital, they were greeted by the city’s ancient architecture, serene Perfume River, and rich cultural history. They spent time exploring the grand Citadel, visiting century-old pagodas, and indulging in Hue’s famously intricate cuisine, from banh beo (steamed rice cakes) to bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup).
From Hue, the journey continued south toward Hoi An, a town known for its lantern-lit streets, historic merchant houses, and vibrant riverside atmosphere. The ride into Hoi An felt like stepping back in time, with the group arriving just as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the Thu Bon River.
Celebrating the Ride
After eight days on the road, the group arrived in Hoi An, where they celebrated their journey with a well-deserved feast of fresh seafood, grilled meats, and local delicacies. Their adventure had taken them through the Mekong’s waterways, the misty peaks of the central highlands, and the sun-drenched coastal roads of central Vietnam—each mile filled with unforgettable experiences, laughter, and the joy of the open road.
For anyone looking for things to do in Vietnam, experiencing the country on a vespa scooter is second to none. From the lively markets of the Mekong Delta to the coastal magic of Hoi An, every twist and turn offers something new to discover.
Special Thanks Steve, Trisha, Magellan, Margot, Peter, Richard, Sandy, Shane and Leonie!
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