(TITC) – Nestled in the heart of the Phia Oac–Phia Den Nature Reserve in Cao Bang Province, the Phia Oac tea hills are an emerging destination for nature lovers seeking peace amid the tranquil mountains of northeastern Vietnam. Perched over 1,000 metres above sea level, this highland retreat enjoys a cool, misty climate year-round, the perfect environment for tea plants to thrive and produce tender green buds imbued with the gentle fragrance unique to mountain-grown tea.
Phia Oac is more than a tea-growing area; it is a living painting of harmony, where the lush green of tea hills blends with the soft white of morning mist and the golden glow of early sunlight. Each dawn, as the first rays of sun pierce through the fog, droplets of dew glisten on the young leaves, reflecting the light like tiny gems. Visitors can wander along winding earthen paths that meander through the hills, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and feel the unhurried rhythm of life in this remote highland region.
Green tea hills (Photo: TITC)
Tea in Phia Oac is cultivated interspersed among patches of natural forest, allowing the plants to absorb the rich minerals of the soil and the pure essence of mountain air. The result is a tea with a full-bodied flavour, a subtle aroma, and a refreshing sweetness that lingers on the palate. Those who visit can experience every step of traditional tea-making, from hand-picking fresh leaves to roasting and rolling them over wood-fired pans, before savouring a steaming cup of tea in the cool highland breeze.
In harmonious with the sky (Photo: TITC)
Beyond its tea, Phia Oac is a land of natural heritage and ecological wonder. The Phia Oac–Phia Den Nature Reserve, often called the “roof of Cao Bang,” boasts a rich ecosystem of ancient forests, rare wildlife species, and crystal-clear streams winding through verdant valleys. Along the journey to the tea hills, visitors can explore historical and scenic sites such as the Tinh Tuc tin mine, the remnants of French colonial-era mountain lodges, or trek up to the summit of Mount Phia Oac, which rises more than 1,900 meters above sea level.
Road to the tea hills (Photo: TITC)
Today, the Phia Oac tea hills are being developed under a model of sustainable agriculture combined with eco-tourism. The endless rows of green tea not only provide livelihoods for local farmers but also help preserve the landscape, protect the forests, and maintain biodiversity. Local authorities and communities are working together to build the “Phia Oac Tea Experience” tourism brand, an immersive journey where visitors can connect with nature, learn about traditional highland craftsmanship, and enjoy the pure, refreshing taste of tea beneath drifting clouds.
With its unspoiled beauty, ecological significance, and cultural authenticity, the Phia Oac tea hills stand as the “green lung” of Cao Bang, a place where the serenity of nature meets the vitality of human endeavour, and where every cup of tea tells the story of the mountains.
Tourism Information Technology Center
