Visiting Cannon Fort on Cat Ba Island is a must-do for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone looking for breathtaking panoramic views of Cat Ba Island. The fort is a fascinating reminder of the island’s military history and offers you the chance to learn about Vietnam’s struggle for independence. The hike up to the fort is also a great way to get some exercise and see some of the island’s stunning scenery. From the top, you can enjoy stunning views of the town, the harbor, and the surrounding karst landscape.
Short history about Cat Ba Cannon Fort
Cannon Fort is a military base located atop a hill on Cat Ba Island in northern Vietnam. The fort was originally built by the French in the late 19th century, during their occupation of Vietnam, as a strategic location to defend against potential attacks from the sea.
During the Vietnam War, the fort was used by the North Vietnamese Army as a military base and lookout point to monitor American naval activities in the nearby waters. The site saw significant action during the war, with both sides firing upon each other from the hilltop.
What to see and do
Today, the fort is a popular tourist attraction. You can explore the old military tunnels and bunkers, view the cannons that once protected the island, and learn about the fort’s fascinating history through informative displays and exhibits.
The fort also has a small museum where you can learn more about the history of the fort and the role it played in the Vietnam War.
However, the main reason people visit Cannon Fort on Cat Ba island is to enjoy the panoramic views of Cat Ba town, Lan Ha Bay, and the surrounding islands from its high vantage point. It is probably the best viewpoint in Cat Ba.
How to get there
To get to Cannon Fort on Cat Ba island, you can either hike up the mountain trail or take a motorbike or taxi from Cat Ba town. It’s located about 2.5 kilometers from the town center and takes about 30-40 minutes to hike up to the fort. Once you reach the entrance, there’s an admission fee of about 40,000 VND per person.
Tips for visiting the Canon Fort
- Wear comfortable shoes: The trek up to the fort can be quite steep, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes to make the climb more manageable.
- Bring water and snacks: There are no food or drink vendors along the way or at the fort, so it’s a good idea to bring your own water and snacks.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat: The fort is exposed to the sun, so it’s important to protect yourself from the heat and sunburn by bringing sunscreen and a hat.
- Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon: It can get quite hot during the middle of the day, so it’s best to visit the fort early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the weather is cooler.
- Bring a camera: The views from the fort are breathtaking, so don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
- Respect the history and nature: Remember that Cannon Fort is not only a tourist attraction, but also an important historical site. You should respect the history and nature of the area by not littering, vandalizing or disturbing the environment.
