Quan Lan is an island nestled within Bai Tu Long Bay, located in the Van Don district of Quang Ninh Province. It is renowned for its crystalline waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and diverse natural landscapes. Among its many treasures, Eo Gio Quan Lan stands out as a fresh, must-visit check-in destination. In this article, we invite you to discover the enchanting beauty of Eo Gio Quan Lan!

Eo Gio Quan Lan

Eo Gio Quan Lan

An Introduction to Eo Gio Quan Lan

Eo Gio Quan Lan, also known as Eo Gio Got Beo, is a rocky headland situated at the southernmost tip of Quan Lan Island, within Yen Hai village. According to local fishermen, the name “Eo Gio” (Windy Pass) is derived from its unique topography: a high mountain range surrounded by forest and sea, featuring natural deep crevices. Because the area acts as a funnel for southerly winds in the summer, strong gusts whistling through the mountain gaps—especially at dawn or dusk—create a haunting, resonant sound reminiscent of howling winds. Consequently, many locals refer to it as the “Howling Wind Hill.”

Viewed from above, the rock formation resembles the heel of a shoe. Historically, it was named “Got Beo” (“Got” signifies a heel, reflecting the shape seen from an aerial perspective; “Beo” is an ancient Vietnamese term referring to a coastal promontory). It is perhaps for this reason that the site bears such a distinctive and captivating name: Eo Gio Got Beo.

Getting There and Exploring the Scenery of Eo Gio Quan Lan

For the most complete experience, we recommend waking up early to witness the sunrise at Eo Gio Quan Lan, located in Yen Hai village, Quan Lan commune. If you are staying in the center of the commune, the site is approximately 8 km away towards Yen Hai and Minh Chau. Visitors can reach Eo Gio via electric car or motorbike. If taking an electric car, you will need to continue on foot, trekking up a small slope through the forest for about 600 meters to reach the destination. If traveling by motorbike, you can ride directly up, though please note that the path is narrow, steep, and hilly; it requires steady handling—if you are not confident, it is best to avoid riding up.
The path to Eo Gio

The path to Eo Gio

Parking area at the foot of the mountain

Parking area at the foot of the mountain

The climb to the peak of Eo Gio

The trail to the peak of Eo Gio can be challenging due to the steep terrain

At the foot of the mountain, there is a designated parking area. In the past, this area offered amenities such as electric shuttle services, bars, and cafes for visitors. Along the path, you may encounter a unique local fruit known as “qua Heo.” When unripe, the fruit is a tea-leaf yellow, turning black as it matures. Visually similar to small grapes, it has a flavor profile closer to a jujube. As a wild fruit, it has a large pit and thin flesh, but its distinct taste is unforgettable. These fruits are typically harvested annually between September and November.
Qua Heo

Qua Heo on the hill of Eo Gio

After the relatively challenging trek to the hilltop, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic vistas. The peak of Eo Gio Quan Lan is gently saddle-shaped and not overly high, with three protruding summits providing natural viewing points perfect for photography. Much like the Mong Rong rock beach in Co To, this location offers an expansive view of the sea. For the best vantage point, we suggest moving to the third summit; from here, you can gaze out over vast stretches of white sand, waves rolling onto the shore, and the distant silhouettes of fishing boats. However, please exercise caution, as the terrain is rugged, lacks guardrails or warning signs, and standing too close to the cliff edges can be hazardous.

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According to local insights, the ideal times to visit Eo Gio Quan Lan are early morning or late afternoon as the sun begins to set. During these golden hours, visitors can immerse themselves in a harmonious symphony of water, stone, wind, and sunlight, washing away all stress and weariness. Photographs captured at these times are not merely defined by deep blues, but are bathed in a gentle, poetic, and rosy glow. Eo Gio Quan Lan remains a pristine destination, largely untouched by human development, bearing only the fleeting footprints of travelers passing through. From the hilltop, visitors can also trek down to Chuong Do Beach—a favorite spot where locals gather clams and scavenge for sea snails.
However, as of May 2024, updates indicate that the two entry paths to Eo Gio Quan Lan have been blocked with gates and barbed wire, rendering the site inaccessible. According to Mr. Nguyen Van Tuyen, Chairman of the People’s Committee of Quan Lan Commune, the site was closed due to the unauthorized use of forestry land for tourism services, leaving many admirers of its rugged beauty deeply disappointed.
The current entrance to Eo Gio blocked by barbed wire

The current entrance to Eo Gio is blocked by barbed wire

Essential Tips for Visiting Eo Gio Quan Lan

  • The transition into summer, from April to June, is the best time to visit Eo Gio, as the weather is pleasant—neither too hot nor prone to heavy rain. This is the perfect window to witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, where the sun emerges from behind the cliffs to cast a brilliant, shimmering light. To reach Eo Gio, you must first travel to Quan Lan. If you are arriving from the mainland, you will need to head to Ao Tien Port or Cai Rong Port to purchase ferry tickets. The cost is approximately 100,000 VND per person, with a transit time of about 20 minutes.
  • You can hire an electric shuttle or a motorbike from Quan Lan or Minh Chau commune to reach Eo Gio. Electric shuttles are a convenient and safe option for groups or those with luggage, though prices are premium, ranging from 800,000 VND to 1,600,000 VND for a round trip depending on the number of passengers and rental duration. Motorbikes offer more flexibility and are cost-effective for independent exploration; however, ensure you have a valid driver’s license and be mindful of road conditions. Motorbike rentals typically cost about 40,000 VND per hour or 120,000 VND – 200,000 VND per day depending on the vehicle model.
  • Dress comfortably and wear shoes with good traction, as the current trail to Eo Gio is rugged and unpaved. You will need to hike about 1 km over gravel, dirt, and grassy paths, which can include steep and slippery sections, so please plan accordingly. We also recommend carrying drinking water, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and swimwear. The sea water at Eo Gio is crystal clear and cool, often allowing you to spot schools of fish swimming below.
  • For safety, do not venture too close to the cliff edges for photos, as the surfaces can be slick and dangerous. Please respect nature and practice “leave no trace” principles. As a protected natural area home to rare flora and fauna, it is vital to preserve the environment and maintain the pristine beauty of this sanctuary.

Eo Gio Quan Lan is a captivating destination for those who crave raw nature and unique experiences. It promises unforgettable moments filled with blue seas, white sands, golden sunshine, and fresh coastal breezes. Should your travels take you to Quan Lan, be sure to visit Eo Gio to discover its majestic and singular beauty. We hope this guide has provided you with useful information for your trip. We wish you a safe and joyful journey!