Ve Vung Dam - a green gem in the rice-growing region of Yen Thanh.
Nestled in the fertile plains of Yen Thanh district (Nghe An province), the Ve Vung dam stands out like a captivating green gem.
Besides serving as a crucial irrigation project, this place is gradually becoming an attractive destination on the ecotourism map of Nghe An province.
A man-made wonder blending seamlessly with nature.
Following National Highway 48E, about 7km west from Hoa Thanh town, to Hung Tran slope, on the right-hand side lies a vast chestnut forest covering over 120 hectares. From here, a large lake, the Ve Vung dam, is clearly visible, with the entire chestnut forest reflected on the water's surface, creating a unique and beautiful scene. During the chestnut harvest season, visitors can participate in the experience of picking chestnuts – a rustic yet fascinating activity.
Located in Dong Thanh commune, the Ve Vung dam has a surface area of up to 720 hectares and a storage capacity of nearly 20 million cubic meters of water. Built in the 1980s, the dam plays a crucial role in providing irrigation water for thousands of hectares of rice and other crops in the area. However, what is even more special is that the clear blue lake and the surrounding hills create a rare and picturesque landscape in the rice-growing plains of Nghe An province.
Viewed from above, the lake's surface stretches out like a giant mirror, reflecting the clouds and endless forests. Small islands rise up in the middle of the lake like unique splashes, reminiscent of a miniature Ha Long Bay. These islands, each with its own name, such as Nay Island, Bach Dan Island, Ranh Ranh Island, Dong Mit Island, Anh Duc Island, Hon Bien Island, and Len Dinh Island, undulate amidst the clear blue water, creating a fascinating and peaceful scene. During the dry season, when the water recedes, three more islands are temporarily exposed – ideal locations for camping and picnicking.
Surrounding the Ve Vung dam are hills of varying sizes and majestic mountains, creating a picturesque and peaceful landscape. Encircling the lake are chestnut and eucalyptus forests rustling in the wind, rolling hills, and, notably, a system of nearly 10 large and small islands, forming an attractive and unique scenic complex.
This place is also home to countless species of birds, including flocks of thousands of white egrets that gather every evening at sunset – creating a natural space that is both peaceful and vibrant. This sight is unforgettable for anyone who has visited even once.
Not only a destination for nature lovers, the Ve Vung Dam also attracts visitors with its simple yet fascinating everyday experiences: small boats fishing on the calm lake surface, clumps of reeds swaying in the gentle breeze, birds chirping... pure nature beckons exploration.
TEnjoy the local cuisine.
Many people have visited the Ve Vung Dam, but the experience wouldn't be complete without trying the local cuisine.
Mr. Phan Trong Luong, who has been instrumental in protecting wild birds for many years, and who also cares for and protects 120 hectares of chestnut trees and plants over 40 hectares of acacia trees around the Ve Vung lake area, creating a diverse range of forest trees in the lake region, said that there are countless types of fish, shrimp, snails, etc., in the Ve Vung dam.
Therefore, visitors can enjoy local specialties such as snail-braised carp, catfish stewed with bamboo shoots, turtle stewed with banana and peanuts, etc. The "Ve Vung carp" is famous in this region for its firm, flavorful meat. The hospitable locals are ready to offer you a cup of green tea and tell you stories about the dam and the chestnut forest that has been protected and nurtured for decades.
From Vinh City, visitors can follow National Highway 7A, turn into the center of Yen Thanh District, and then continue about 7km west to reach the dam. This is a beautiful route that connects to other destinations such as Gam Pagoda and Duc Hoang Temple. The Ve Vung Dam now has a concrete road running along the lake, making it convenient for motorbikes and small cars to travel along. For many years, there has been a restaurant here serving local cuisine to visitors.
With its great potential in terms of landscape, ecology, and cultural experiences, the Ve Vung Dam deserves systematic investment to become a highlight of ecotourism in Yen Thanh district in particular and Nghe An province in general in the future.
