Xuan Huong Lake in Dalat: Best Activities & Attractions

When I picture Da Lat, my mind immediately goes to the gentle curve of Xuan Huong Lake. This beautiful crescent-shaped lake sits right in the center of the city. It’s a peaceful spot where couples, families, and friends gather from morning until night. The calm water and surrounding pine trees create a truly romantic setting. 

This guide will walk you through what makes this lake so special. It’s much more than just a body of water for a nice photo. The lake has a rich history and a vibrant atmosphere. It connects you to many of Da Lat’s best sights and activities, making it the perfect starting point for any trip to the city of eternal spring. The lake is just one of the many wonderful Things To Do in Dalat.

The History and Creation of Xuan Huong Lake

It’s interesting to think that this iconic lake wasn’t always here. The story of its creation gives you a deeper appreciation for the landmark as you walk its shores today. 

From Valley to “Grand Lac”

Long ago, the area was a peaceful valley where the Lach people lived. The Cam Ly Stream flowed gently through the fields and forests. It was a natural, untouched part of the landscape.

In 1919, French planners decided to transform the valley. They built a small dam to block the Cam Ly Stream, which slowly filled the valley with water. This created the very first version of the lake, which they named “Grand Lac.”

Rebirth and Renaming of Xuan Huong Lake

Nature, however, had its own ideas. A powerful storm in 1932 completely destroyed the dam, and the lake drained away. The valley nearly returned to its original state.

Two years later, a larger, stronger dam was built from stone, creating the lake we see today. The new structure was much more resilient. In 1953, the lake was given its current name, Xuan Huong. The name serves two purposes. It honors the famous 17th-century Vietnamese poetess, Ho Xuan Huong, and it translates to “Scent of Spring,” a perfect fit for a city known for its fresh air and colorful Vietnam’s flowers.

Xuan Huong Lake Area and Road Connection

The lake itself is quite large, covering about 32 hectares right in the city center. The area around it is a lovely mix of pine groves, green lawns, and carefully tended flower beds, making it the green heart of Da Lat.

Several major city roads connect directly to the lake, making it a central hub for getting around. Tran Quoc Toan Street wraps around most of the lake, providing easy access from all sides. Key roads from the city center flow towards the lake, so it’s a landmark you will likely pass many times during your visit. This easy access is a big reason why it’s such a popular spot in Vietnam’s Central Highlands.

Top Activities and Experiences at Xuan Huong Lake

The lake is more than just a pretty view; it’s a place for fun and relaxation. You can find something to do here at any time of day. If you’d like some help creating the perfect itinerary, we can Custom Your Trip to match your interests.

Strolling and Cycling around Xuan Huong Lake

A flat, paved path runs the entire 5-kilometer loop around the lake, making it perfect for a walk or a bike ride. In the morning, you’ll see locals jogging and exercising. In the afternoon, couples and families take slow, happy strolls. The cool air and beautiful scenery make it a refreshing experience.

You can rent all sorts of bicycles, but the tandem bikes are a popular choice for couples. It’s a fun, sometimes clumsy, way to see the lake together. The path is also a fantastic spot for a photoshoot. The changing light, flower beds, and views of the city offer endless photo opportunities.

Swan Paddle Boating

You can’t miss the giant swan paddle boats waiting by the shore. Renting one is a classic Da Lat activity. It’s a peaceful way to get out on the water and see the city from a different angle. The boats are easy to operate and perfect for a romantic outing.

Families with children also love the paddle boats. Kids get excited about pedaling their own giant swan across the water. It’s a simple, affordable activity that creates some wonderful memories. What’s your favorite way to spend time on the water?

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

For a touch of nostalgia, you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the lake. The colorful carriages and gentle clip-clop of the horses’ hooves feel like something from a fairytale. It’s a slow-paced, relaxing way to see the sights without any effort.

The drivers are usually friendly locals who can point out interesting spots along the way. The ride offers a charming, old-world experience that fits perfectly with Da Lat’s romantic atmosphere. It’s especially lovely in the late afternoon as the sun begins to set. This romantic atmosphere is why Da Lat is a key stop on our dream itinerary. You can experience it for yourself on our Honeymoon Bliss in Vietnam 16 days tour.

Lakeside Cafes

Da Lat is famous for its coffee culture, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than by Xuan Huong Lake. Several cafes line the waterfront, offering comfortable seats and fantastic views. You can sit for hours, sipping a hot coffee and watching the world go by. The city’s coffee is a huge part of its identity. We have a whole post dedicated to finding the best Da Lat coffee.

The most famous cafe is the Thuy Ta Pavilion. This beautiful white building sits on its own small pier over the water. It’s an iconic landmark and a wonderful spot to relax. Grabbing a drink here feels like a special part of any visit to Da Lat.

Exploring the Attractions Around the Lake

Xuan Huong Lake’s central location means you are just steps away from some of Da Lat’s top attractions. A walk around the lake can easily turn into a full day of sightseeing. While the city center has plenty to offer, the surrounding countryside holds even more natural beauty. Don’t miss our guide to the stunning Dalat waterfalls.

Lam Vien Square

On the eastern edge of the lake, you’ll find Lam Vien Square in Dalat. This large public space is home to two of Da Lat’s most modern architectural works. One is a giant, golden building shaped like a wild sunflower. The other is a green tower designed to look like an artichoke bud.

These buildings are visually striking and contain cafes, shops, and performance spaces inside. The square is a popular gathering spot, especially for young people. It’s a great place to take photos and see a different, more contemporary side of Da Lat.

Da Lat Market

A short walk from the lake’s western side will bring you to the bustling Da Lat Market. During the day, it’s a busy market filled with fresh flowers, local produce, and unique snacks. You can find everything from sweet strawberries to artichoke tea.

At night, the area transforms into the Da Lat Night Market. The streets fill with food stalls selling local favorites like grilled rice paper pizza, hot soy milk, and sweet potato cakes. It’s a lively, delicious experience that gives you a real taste of local life.

Da Lat Flower Gardens

At the northern trip of the lake are the Da Lat Flower Gardens in Dalat. Da Lat is known as the “City of Flowers,” and this park is the best place to see why. It features a huge collection of different flowers and plants, all beautifully arranged.

You can spend a couple of hours walking through the colorful displays. The gardens are a showcase of the region’s ideal growing conditions. From roses and orchids to fields of hydrangeas, it’s a paradise for anyone who loves flowers.

The Old Railway Station

A little further from the lake, but still within a short trip, is the Da Lat Railway Station. Built in the 1930s, it’s one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in Vietnam. The station is no longer in regular use, but a short tourist train still runs to a nearby village.

Even if you don’t take the train, the station itself is worth a visit. The beautiful stained-glass windows and classic design make it a popular spot for photos. It’s a small piece of history that adds to Da Lat’s unique charm.

Conclusion

Xuan Huong Lake truly is the heart and soul of Da Lat. It’s where the city’s history, natural beauty, and daily life come together. It is a place for quiet mornings, active afternoons, and romantic evenings. For those seeking a bit more adventure with incredible views, a trip to Lang Biang mountain is a must. It offers a stunning panoramic look at the entire region.

Whether you’re walking the path, paddling a boat, or just enjoying a coffee, the lake offers a sense of peace and charm that is hard to find anywhere else. A visit here is a chance to slow down and appreciate the simple, beautiful moments that make travel so rewarding.

FAQs about Xuan Huong Lake