Pa Uon bridge on the Da river (photo: VOV)

Spanning 10,500 hectares and stretching approximately 70 kilometers, Quynh Nhai reservoir has a diverse ecosystem of islets, caves, primeval forests, and bays nestled among towering mountains. The two largest bays, Uy Phong and Binh Yen, are particularly notable for their scenic charm.

From the wharf at Pa Uon bridge on the Da river, tourists can board boats to visit Heart Island in Hat Lech village, Chieng On commune, and Uy Phong bay in Khoang village, a floating tourist hub on the reservoir.

The Uy Phong Bay Tourism Complex, developed on an area of 10,000 square meters, features a restaurant, a water volleyball court, a boat racing area, and fish cage farming facilities.

Recognizing the growing appeal of the reservoir, the Quynh Nhai Travel Cooperative was established in 2017 to organize local boat services for sightseeing.  As tourist numbers increased, the cooperative invested in two passenger boats, each accommodating 40 to 60 people, and began offering sightseeing tours.

La Van Phong, Director of the Quynh Nhai Travel Cooperative, said: “We set standards to offer tourists the best and safest products and services. Our products promote the strengths of Quynh Nhai, such as lake eco-tourism and the cultural uniqueness of ethnic groups.”

Quynh Nhai district focuses on eco-tourism in the Son La hydroelectric reservoir area. (photo: VOV)

Another attractive destination is Binh Yen Bay. On one side of the bay are eight floating houses designed to match the natural landscape. Tourists can swim, kayak, and enjoy meals on the boat.

“This is my first visit here. The air is fresh. The people are very friendly and hospitable. This is an ideal place for a weekend picnic,” a tourist said.

Another tourist shared: “The accommodation and services are good. The natural scenery is wonderful.”

Quynh Nhai district has called on businesses to invest in infrastructure for tourism. Some companies and cooperatives, such as the Trung Kien Tay Bac Construction and Development Company, the Minh Chau Company, the Quynh Nhai Eco-tourism Cooperative, and the Quynh Nhai Travel Cooperative, have invested in community tourism.

Lo Thanh Thuy, Vice Chairman of the Quynh Nhai district People's Committee, said authorities have launched several projects to promote lake basin tourism.

“Quynh Nhai district will focus on eco-tourism in the Son La hydroelectric reservoir area and spiritual tourism in Quynh Nhai district. The district will develop community tourism in Muong Chien commune, which has mineral springs for physical therapy,” said Thuy.

The best time to visit Quynh Nhai reservoir is between September and April, when the water level rises and visitors can admire the vast, clear lake mirroring the blue sky. That time of the year also has many ethnic cultural activities, such as the Hair Washing Festival, the Boat Racing Festival, and the Then Kin Phang Festival of the White Thai.