Perched high on Vietnam’s northern border, Dong Van is one of the most atmospheric overnight stops on the Ha Giang Loop. Between misty mountains, the clay-walled Old Quarter and nearby Hmong villages, this tiny town has a surprising number of cozy, character-filled stays. If you’re searching for the best homestays in Dong Van – whether you’re a backpacker, a couple or a family – this guide will help you choose.
Below are some of the most loved and consistently well-reviewed homestays, based on recent listings and guest feedback.
Perfect Tours for You:
Dong Van Cliffside House – Iconic views right above town
If you’ve seen photos of stylish wooden houses tucked under a limestone cliff, that’s probably Dong Van Cliffside House. Built along the slope just below the French fortress viewpoint Đồn Cao and about 250–350 m from the Old Quarter, it balances nature and convenience perfectly.
Rooms mix traditional materials (stone, wood, brocade textiles) with modern comforts like private bathrooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi and large glass doors opening to balconies. Many units look straight over Dong Van town and the surrounding karst peaks – sunrise from your bed is very much a thing here.
Cliffside House suits couples and small groups who want a “boutique lodge” feel rather than a simple dorm. The garden, outdoor seating and on-site restaurant make it easy to relax after long riding days.
Plum Homestay Dong Van – Colorful glamping vibe & family-friendly
Bright cabins and dome tents lined up along the hillside: Plum Homestay Dong Van is one of the most eye-catching places to stay in town. Located in Xóm Mới hamlet, around 500 m from the Old Quarter, it feels peaceful but still close to food and coffee options.
Plum offers a huge mix of accommodation: standard rooms, family bungalows, dorms and even glamping-style domes. Most units have big windows or full-glass fronts, balconies and mountain or garden views. Facilities usually include air-conditioning, private bathrooms with hot water, free Wi-Fi and on-site parking.
Guests often highlight the friendly staff, generous breakfasts featuring northern Vietnamese specialties and plenty of photo-worthy corners around the property. It’s one of the best homestays in Dong Van for families, couples who like a slightly “resorty” feel, or groups wanting a fun base with lots of room types.
CiCi Homestay Dong Van – Panoramic town & mountain views
Set on a hillside in Đoàn Kết hamlet, CiCi Homestay looks straight across Dong Van town to the surrounding rocky peaks. Vietnamese and international guests regularly mention it as having one of the best viewpoints in town.
The homestay combines simple, clean rooms with warm, slightly vintage decor: wooden furniture, soft lighting, big windows and terraces for watching sunrise or the mist roll over the valley. Expect private and dorm options, Wi-Fi, on-site food and coffee, plus parking – all handy if you’re doing the Loop by bike.
CiCi is a great mid-range choice if you want a quiet, homely atmosphere with sweeping views but still be just a short ride or walk from the Old Quarter and Sunday market.
Green Karst Hostel & Bar – Social hub for backpackers
If you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget and want to meet other riders, Green Karst Hostel & Bar is a strong pick. Located on 29 Pho Co street, only a short walk from Dong Van Old Quarter, it offers both private rooms and dorms with ensuite bathrooms, air-conditioning and thick mattresses.
There’s a lively common area and bar with billiards, music and cold drinks. Many guests use Green Karst as a base to find motorbike rental, loop buddies and local tips. Breakfast options and simple local dishes are commonly available, and staff can help with route planning or bookings.
Choose Green Karst if you value atmosphere and affordability over luxury – it’s one of the best homestays in Dong Van for sociable backpackers.
Dong Van Panorama Homestay – Big terraces and sunset views
As the name suggests, Dong Van Panorama Homestay focuses on wide, open views. Set slightly uphill from the town center, it looks across fields, rooftops and surrounding hills. Guests highlight the spacious terrace and garden as perfect spots for sunset beers or early-morning coffee.
Rooms here range from simple doubles to multi-bed units; some have private bathrooms, others share facilities, so check when booking. All benefit from access to Wi-Fi, free parking and the homestay’s bar/communal area.
Panorama works well for small groups or couples who want space, strong views and a relaxed homestay feel rather than a packed hostel.
Nha Co Lao Xa Homestay Hmong – Immersive village experience
For something more remote and culturally immersive, consider Nha Co Lao Xa Homestay Hmong in Lao Xa village, Sủng Là commune, still within Dong Van district. It sits about 15–16 km from Dong Van town, surrounded by mountains, corn fields and traditional Hmong houses.
The property uses restored traditional architecture with wooden frames and stone or earthen walls, plus modern touches like air-conditioning in bungalows, hot showers and free Wi-Fi. Many rooms have balconies or terraces with garden and mountain views, and there’s a sun terrace and outdoor fireplace for evenings.
Staying here gives you a chance to walk through a peaceful highland village, learn about Hmong culture and enjoy home-cooked meals. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind being away from town in exchange for authenticity and quiet.
Ancient Town 29 Pho Co – Sleep inside the Old Quarter
If you want to stay right in the historic heart of Dong Van, Ancient Town 29 Pho Co is a lovely option. Located in the Old Quarter itself – an area of about 40 clay and stone houses, many around 100–200 years old – this B&B puts you steps from night-time cafes, the Sunday market and the charming central square.
Rooms are modern and comfortable, with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, toiletries and a simple but tasty breakfast. The property also offers a garden, lounge, bar and 24-hour front desk, plus on-site parking – convenient if you’re arriving by car or bike.
Ancient Town 29 Pho Co is best for travelers who want to soak up the Old Quarter’s atmosphere, wander out for street food or coffee at any hour, and still sleep in a clean, hotel-style room.
How to choose the best homestays in Dong Van for you
With so many good options, use these quick checks to decide:
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Location:
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Stay in or near Dong Van Old Quarter (Cliffside House, Green Karst, Ancient Town 29 Pho Co, Plum, CiCi, Panorama) for easy access to cafés, markets and transport.
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Choose villages like Lao Xa or Ma Le if you prefer quiet, cultural immersion and don’t mind a ride into town.
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Vibe:
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Social & budget: Green Karst Hostel & Bar.
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Boutique & stylish: Dong Van Cliffside House, Plum Homestay.
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Scenic & peaceful: Dong Van Panorama Homestay, Nha Co Lao Xa.
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Travel style:
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Short Ha Giang Loop stopover: pick somewhere in town for convenience.
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Slow travel or photography: consider splitting nights between an Old Quarter stay and a village homestay like Lao Xa.
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Practical tips for booking homestays in Dong Van
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Book ahead in peak months (October–November for buckwheat flowers, March–April and summer weekends), as the most popular places can sell out quickly.
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Check room type carefully – many homestays offer both private rooms and dorms; photos can mix them together.
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Confirm parking and bike rental if you’re riding the Loop. Most of the homestays above can either rent bikes or connect you with trusted shops.
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Ask about breakfast and dinner – eating in is often cheaper and more authentic than restaurant hopping, especially in villages.
Pick one (or two) of these best homestays in Dong Van, and you’ll have a comfortable base to enjoy early-morning markets, starry skies and some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in northern Vietnam
Ready to plan, get a price, or just ask questions?
👉 Call/WhatsApp The Loop Tours — Hotline: +84862443320
