The remote northwest of Vietnam is one of the most beautiful, unaffected and untouristed areas of Vietnam. The travellers who do come up this way often hire a jeep and driver or do it by motorbike. You can also do the loop by local bus, though that takes a lot longer. Regardless of which method you elect, you are guaranteed to pass through spectacular ravines and over breathtaking passes.

Best known for the burgeoning trekking centre of Sapa, there is a lot more worth investigating in this part of the country. The remote French firebase of Dien Bien Phu remains a drawcard, but its as much the attraction of the trip there as the town itself that is worth visiting. Entering Sapa via "the back way" over the Fansipan pass, makes for more stunning scenery and the opportunity to see some of the less touristed parts of the country.

Other popular destinations include Mai Chau whose day-trekking and stunning scenery have helped it develop into a small tourist centre en-route to Diem Bien Phu -- many trips from Hanoi run out to Mai Chau -- and with good reason.

This is a time consuming part of Vietnam to visit, but if you have the time, the northwest is well worth adding into your trip plans.

• In the region: Hoa Binh - Son La - Dien Bien Phu - Lai Chau - Sapa
  
• Tours to the Northwest