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Hai Le Cao
I have always considered myself a “child of nature”. While life’s challenges sweep me into a whirlwind of chaos, upon returning to nature I find myself and the place where I belong. On these journeys of self-discovery, destinations that have left a profound mark include Cat Ba and Lan Ha Bay, home to the pristine and mysterious saltwater karst lake of Ang Tham, which is separated from the ocean by a narrow channel.
As some fishermen steered our boat deep into the bay, I could fully appreciate Lan Ha’s incredible nature. The islands are cloaked in lush green vegetation. White sandy beaches stretch under the mountains, and the deep blue waters resemble a precious sapphire amidst the sea and sky. We passed Hau (Oyster) Beach on the way to Ang Tham. The fishermen gave it this name because the sandy beach resembles a giant oyster basking at the edge of the rocky mountains.
The journey to Ang Tham is unforgettable, as large boats cannot navigate this route. We traveled by small boat before switching to kayaks. I spent hours adrift on a wooden boat with fishermen who knew the tides and currents intimately, aware of their rise and fall. The final stretch was very narrow. The constant waves and sharp rocks tested the courage of anyone who dared enter.
We switched to kayaks to approach this rocky crevice. Despite the difficulties and dangers, once inside, the breathtaking scenery left me speechless. Lush green vegetation, undulating sand dunes, and a jade-green lake, perfectly still like a mirror, beckoned invitingly. The beauty of Ang Tham lies in its serene inner tranquility, contrasting with the tumultuous waves crashing outside. This lake stretches about 240 meters in length and 140 meters in width. Its depth varies with the tides, around 5 to 6 meters. The lake hosts various types of coral, which thrive particularly well in the winter. Due to its sheltered location, it also serves as a haven for fishermen and their boats during storms. Ang Tham is an ideal spot for those who wish to explore wild nature. While the journey is challenging and no services are offered, this makes the place perpetually appealing to adventurous souls.
I was captivated by the sand, rocks, and crystal-clear seawater, which seemed to wash away my worries. Thank you, Mother Nature, for embracing me in this gentle marine bosom.
