Relax at Tuyen Lam Lake

For the most up-to-date details, check Lonely Planet Dalat Guide before you go.

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Lam Dong Provincial Portal.

Many visitors choose to visit the Truc Lam Zen Monastery located on the hill. This beautiful temple offers great views of the water and the surrounding forest trees. You can walk through the gardens and enjoy the peaceful vibe for free. Learn how to visit Tuyen Lam Lake to maximize your time there.

The lakeside paths are perfect for those who enjoy light exercise in nature. You will see locals fishing or jogging along the water during the early hours. The air is very crisp and clean because of the high elevation of the lake. Bring a camera to capture the reflection of the clouds on the still water.

As the sun begins to set, the lake transforms into a golden paradise for photographers. You can find many quiet spots along the shore to watch the colors change. The surrounding hills create a dramatic backdrop for your 2026 travel photos and videos. This is truly one of the best free nature spots in Dalat for relaxation.

• Best Activities at Tuyen Lam Lake
  • Type: Outdoor relaxation
  • Best for: Photography and walking
  • Where: South of Dalat
  • Cost: Zero dollars

Explore the Iconic Pine Forests

Dalat is famous for its vast pine forests that cover the rolling hills. These forests give the city its unique look and very fresh mountain air. Most of these wooded areas are open to the public for free exploration. You can wander through the trees and enjoy the scent of the pine needles.

Finding the right spot for photos is easy if you know where to look. Many roads leading out of the city are lined with beautiful and tall trees. You can stop your motorbike and walk into the forest for a quick break. Discover the best free pine forest photo spots in Dalat for your trip.

The light inside the forest is best during the early morning or late afternoon. Sunlight filters through the branches and creates a magical glow on the forest floor. This is the ideal time to take professional looking photos without any crowds. The silence of the woods is very calming for many stressed travelers.

Please remember to keep the environment clean when you visit these natural areas. Do not leave any trash behind and stay on the existing walking paths. Protecting these free nature spots in Dalat ensures they remain beautiful for future visitors. Enjoy the natural serenity of the highlands while respecting the local mountain landscape.

• Top Forest Locations for 2026
  • Type: Nature photography
  • Best for: Quiet walks
  • Where: Prenn Pass area
  • Cost: Free entry

Walk Around Xuan Huong Lake

Xuan Huong Lake is located right in the heart of Dalat city center. This man made lake is shaped like a crescent moon and is very popular. You can walk the entire perimeter of the lake for a great workout. The path is about five kilometers long and offers many different views.

The area around the lake is always full of life and local energy. You will see people flying kites or riding tandem bikes on the wide paths. There are many benches where you can sit and watch the world go by. Check out the best walking route around Xuan Huong Lake for your visit.

During the spring, the flowers around the lake bloom in many bright colors. This makes the walk even more enjoyable for tourists and local residents alike. You can see the famous cherry blossoms if you visit during the early months. It is one of the most accessible free nature spots in Dalat.

At night, the lake is lit up with many colorful and bright lights. The reflection on the water creates a very romantic atmosphere for couples. Many people enjoy eating street food while sitting near the cool water edge. It is a must visit spot for anyone on a tight budget.

• Xuan Huong Lake Highlights
  • Type: City park
  • Best for: Evening walks
  • Where: City center
  • Cost: Always free

Go Cloud Hunting at Da Phu Hill

Cloud hunting is a famous activity for young travelers visiting Dalat today. It involves waking up very early to see the mist in the valleys. Da Phu Hill is one of the best places for this experience. You do not have to pay any entry fee to climb this hill.

The climb to the top takes about twenty minutes on a steep path. You should arrive before five in the morning to see the best views. The thick white clouds look like an ocean below the mountain peaks. Learn the best time for Dalat cloud hunting before you go.

The temperature on the hill can be very cold in the early morning. You must wear a warm jacket and good shoes for the hike up. Watching the sun rise over the clouds is a memory you will keep. This is one of the most adventurous free nature spots in Dalat.

Once the sun is high, the clouds will slowly start to disappear. You will then see the beautiful green valleys and farms below you. The view of the city from this height is truly spectacular and wide. It is the perfect way to start your day in the mountains.

• Cloud Hunting Essentials
  • Type: Adventure
  • Best for: Sunrise views
  • Where: Da Phu Hill
  • Cost: Free

Visit the Golden Stream Area

The Golden Stream area is located a bit further from the city center. This region is home to Suoi Vang Lake and many natural water streams. You can explore the rocky banks and find small waterfalls for free. It is a very peaceful place away from the main tourist crowds.

One of the most famous spots here is the Lonely Pine Tree. This single tree stands by the lake and is a popular photo spot. You can hike to this location and enjoy the wild scenery around it. See the list of free waterfalls to visit in Dalat for more ideas.

The landscape here is very raw and has not been changed by buildings. You can see wild horses grazing in the green meadows near the water. The sound of the flowing stream is very relaxing for a long afternoon. It is one of the best free nature spots in Dalat for nature lovers.

Make sure to bring your own snacks and water when you visit this area. There are not many shops or restaurants located close to the stream. You can have a wonderful picnic while looking at the mountains and water. This is a great way to enjoy the 2026 highland summer.

• Golden Stream Features
  • Type: Wild nature
  • Best for: Picnics
  • Where: Lac Duong district
  • Cost: No charge

Discover Free Mountain Viewpoints

Dalat is surrounded by many hills that offer amazing views of the city. Robin Hill is a great place to start your mountain exploration journey. You can drive up to the top and see the whole valley below. This is one of the most accessible free nature spots in Dalat.

From the top, you can see the cable car moving across the sky. You do not need to buy a ticket to enjoy the viewpoint area. Many people come here to watch the city lights turn on at night. Find the best sunrise viewpoints in Dalat for your next early morning trip.

Another great spot is Thien Phuc Duc Hill which is very quiet. It offers a unique view of the Lang Biang mountain in the distance. The walk up is easy and takes you through small vegetable farms. You can see how the local people live and work in the hills.

These viewpoints are perfect for catching the famous Dalat mist in the morning. The air feels very fresh and cool at these higher mountain elevations. You can sit on the grass and enjoy the vast landscape for hours. It is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of Vietnam for free.

• Top Free Viewpoints
  • Type: Panoramic views
  • Best for: City watching
  • Where: Robin Hill
  • Cost: Zero entry