Rural Villages by Bike, Hanoi

A rare and fiercely protected heritage community in northern Vietnam, Duong Lam is a hidden delight that not too many tourists have the privilege to experience. The picturesque countryside that surrounds the village is best explored by bike. See the communal village house in Duong Lam, a wonderful example of traditional north Vietnamese architecture, before whizzing past expansive green rice paddies on two wheels as you head towards Mia Pagoda, home to 287 extraordinary Buddhist statues. Some of the most exquisite ancient relics are found here, many of them stolen centuries ago. Learn how a 17th century queen shook things up and left her legacy, and visit a traditional house dating back three centuries, where you are invited to stay for a unique lunchtime feast.