Xuan Huong Lake: The Poetic Heart of Da Lat City
Xuan Huong Lake (Hồ Xuân Hương) stands as the iconic symbol and romantic center of Da Lat. Located right in the city’s heart, this beautiful, crescent-shaped man-made lake stretches over five kilometers, creating a serene, picturesque atmosphere that reflects the city’s charming character. Surrounded by pine hills, flower gardens, and lush green lawns, the lake is an essential stop for every visitor. Therefore, tourists actively flock here to enjoy the fresh mountain air and stunning scenery.
Introduction and Must-Do Activities
The lake offers a peaceful retreat and numerous engaging activities throughout the day. The paved path circling the lake provides an ideal route for exercise and sightseeing.
Leisurely Strolls and Cycling: Many visitors rent tandem bicycles or stroll the lakeside path, especially during the cool early morning when mist hangs over the water or at sunset. Consequently, people enjoy a great opportunity to observe local life as residents jog and relax.
Swan Pedal Boats: A quintessential Da Lat experience involves renting one of the iconic swan-shaped pedal boats. Gently gliding across the calm water provides a unique perspective of the surrounding landmarks, including Lam Vien Square and the distant peaks.
Photography and Scenery: The lake area offers numerous photogenic spots. Be sure to capture the classic view featuring the white Thuy Ta restaurant, which resembles a floating yacht, and the distinctive Artichoke Bud and Wild Sunflower structures at Lam Vien Square.
History and Cultural Significance
The history of Xuan Huong Lake is tied closely to the development of Da Lat under French colonial rule. Originally a marshland fed by the Cam Ly Stream (Suối Cam Ly), French engineers constructed a dam in the early 20th century to create a large reservoir, which they initially named “Grand Lac.”
Origin of the Name: In 1953, the Vietnamese government renamed the body of water Xuan Huong Lake. This action honored the famous 19th-century Vietnamese female poet, Ho Xuan Huong. Known as the “Queen of Nom Poetry,” she bravely used her satirical, witty, and often sensual verses to critique Confucian society and champion the independence of women. The name, which also translates to “Spring Fragrance,” beautifully captures the lake’s poetic and romantic ambiance.
Practical Visitor Information
Since the lake is located centrally, accessing it is very straightforward.
Address: Đ. Trần Quốc Toản, Phường 1, Đà Lạt, Lâm Đồng, Vietnam.
Entrance Fee: Visiting the lake itself, walking around the perimeter, and taking photos are free of charge.
Activity Costs: Local vendors manage services around the lake. Visitors typically pay fees for:
Swan Pedal Boat Rental: Usually ranges from 30,000 VND to 60,000 VND per hour (Prices may vary).
Tandem Bicycle Rental: Typically around 30,000 VND to 50,000 VND per hour.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: Available for hire near the lake to tour the surrounding area, with prices negotiated directly with the carriage drivers.
Contact Information: No central tourism office manages the lake directly, but its surrounding areas feature major commercial and government buildings. For general tourist assistance, contact the Da Lat Tourism Information Center. You can readily find local business contact information at lakeside cafes and nearby hotels.
