Unlocking the tourism potential of An Lão

Unlocking the tourism potential of An Lão

Located at an altitude of 1,200 meters above sea level, An Toan commune (An Lao district) is often referred to as the "gateway to heaven" of Binh Dinh province. With its cool climate year-round, majestic scenery, and rich ecosystem, An Toan has been striving to develop tourism linked to traditional cultural values.

On May 2nd and 3rd, a large number of locals and tourists immersed themselves in the beauty of the An Toan mountain forest through the An Lao Trail 2025 race. Organized by the An Lao District People's Committee in collaboration with Secret Sport Events JSC, the race took place in An Toan commune and attracted 1,000 participants in the 10km, 25km, 50km, and 70km distances. With the inspiring message "Lost amidst the clouds," the race was not just a simple sporting event, but also a journey to experience the culture, explore the majestic nature, and feel the genuine hospitality of the local people.

Athletes participating in the An Lão Trail 2025 check in at the An Lão Sky Gate. Photo: NM

Returning to Binh Dinh for the second time to participate in a trail race, Nguyen Tien Hoang (from Ho Chi Minh City) said that he took part in the 10km distance and was truly impressed: "In just this distance, I crossed cool streams, traversed pristine forests, and breathed in the fresh air that is rarely found elsewhere. Not only the race route, but I was also impressed and had the opportunity to fully experience the spirit of the local people by immersing myself in the unique gong culture through the accompanying activities."

Each running route offers a different range of emotions for the athletes. Photo: HV

As a native of An Lao, Truong Ngoc Nhan (from An Lao town) has demonstrated the spirit of "every citizen is a tourism ambassador" through concrete and enthusiastic actions. Having actively participated in athletics at local races and the Phu Dong Sports Festival, this time he decided to test his skills in the 10km distance at the An Lao Trail 2025. More than just an athlete, Nhan left a deep impression with his gentle, friendly demeanor and his wholehearted support for other runners, readily offering directions, sharing information, and encouraging his fellow competitors. Nhan shared: "For me, the race is not only an opportunity to challenge myself, but also a valuable chance to connect with friends and mentors from all over; and to introduce everyone to the culture, nature, and people of An Lao. I am very proud to contribute a small part to promoting the image of my hometown."

Athletes participating in the An Lão Trail 2025 enjoy traditional rice wine in a warm and vibrant cultural setting. Photo: NM

During the race, Ms. Dinh Thuy Trieu, owner of Thuy Trieu homestay (Hamlet 2, An Toan commune), had almost no time to rest, as she was busy serving guests. She shared: "My homestay has been gradually built and now has 7 rooms in the traditional stilt house style, mainly serving tourists and locals who come to relax and experience the area. Usually, homestays are only crowded in the summer, but this year, thanks to the race, the number of guests has increased dramatically. I hope there will be more programs and events like this to attract tourists. Not only me, but everyone in the area is happy to see more and more guests coming, and their lives are improving."

A special feature of the An Lão Trail 2025 is that, despite many challenges regarding infrastructure, thanks to the meticulous preparation of the local authorities, most athletes and visitors had wonderful experiences. Accommodation for visitors and athletes was well-arranged, traffic flow was managed effectively, ensuring smooth operations; and food and beverage services were hygienic and reasonably priced, creating a comfortable environment for athletes and visitors.

Despite its simple and rustic design, the An Toàn homestay in the highlands exudes warmth and hospitality, allowing visitors to experience the slow pace of life amidst the vast mountains. Photo: HV

Bringing his family and relatives to An Toan to attend the opening ceremony of An Lao Trail 2025 and visit the four-tiered waterfall (An Quang commune), Mr. Vo Van Cuong (Quy Nhon City) shared: “The road to An Toan involves overcoming many steep and winding sections, but we feel our efforts were well rewarded when we participated in the activities here, especially the first time admiring the majestic beauty and immersing ourselves in the cool water of the four-tiered waterfall. This is a wonderful experience we had during this year's holiday.”

With its natural advantages, rich cultural heritage, and the unanimous commitment from the government to the people in developing sustainable tourism, the locality hopes to continue receiving attention and support from the provincial leadership, departments, and the business community to create unique and environmentally friendly tourism products.

Visitors gain a more authentic and profound experience of local culture through evening performances and cultural exchanges featuring gong music, Kalêu and Kachoi singing by the Hrê and Bana ethnic groups, bonfires, and traditional rice wine drinking. Photo: HV

Mr. Trinh Xuan Long, Chairman of the District People's Committee, affirmed: After the race, the district will continue to effectively implement solutions to protect the environment, preserve the forest ecosystem, restore historical relics, and promote traditional cultural values. In particular, preserving and honoring the gong culture will be an indispensable part of the journey to build An Lao tourism into an attractive and distinctive destination. We believe that with the joint efforts of the entire society, An Lao tourism will soon become a bright spot on the tourism map of the province and the country.

HUYNH VY

Source: https://baobinhdinh.vn/viewer.aspx?macm=12&macmp=12&mabb=355306