Bình Thuận  has immense potential to develop agri-tourism linked to its specialty crops, including grapes, jujubes and resin-producing trees. Photo 30namtailaptinh.thuvienbinhthuan.com.vn

BÌNH THUẬN  With its vast land resources, an extensive network of rivers, canals and mountains, and a flourishing agricultural sector, the south-central province of Bình Thuận has ideal conditions for developing agricultural and community-based tourism.

Initially, garden tours have proven effective, not only enriching Bình Thuận’s tourism offerings but also contributing to the overall value of the local agriculture.

Since the operation of the Dầu Giây - Phan Thiết and Phan Thiết - Vĩnh Hảo expressways, the number of visitors flocking to Tuy Phong District in Bình Thuận has been steadily increasing. 

In addition to the Bình Thạnh Tourist Area, which features the Cổ Thạch Pagoda and the Seven-Coloured Rock Beach, Tuy Phong’s tourism is gaining popularity thanks to new attractions, particularly the vineyard tours in Phước Thể Commune.

These days, Lê My Vineyard in Phước Thể Commune has become a must-visit destination for nature lovers. 

The serene environment, lush greenery and grapevines laden with fruit create an inviting setting. 

Visitors can explore the vineyard, take photos, sample grape-based products and even harvest grapes themselves.

Trần Tuấn Anh, a tourist from Tây Ninh Province, shared his experience: “After hearing about this place from friends, we decided to check it out. This is my first time visiting a vineyard, and I was amazed by the lush greenery and the clusters of ripe grapes hanging overhead. It was an unforgettable experience and we got many fantastic photos.”

Huỳnh Thị Mỹ Tiên, a traveller from HCM City, chose to visit the vineyard as the final stop on her Lunar New Year trip. 

 “The vineyard owner allows visitors to explore and take photos for free. My kids had the chance to learn about farmers and rural life first hand. I personally picked fresh, delicious grapes to bring home as gifts after taking some nice 'check-in' shots and trying various grape products like wine, syrup and raisins,” she said.

To enhance the visitor experience, vineyard owners meticulously maintain their farms, create scenic areas for photography and relaxation, and collaborate with other vineyards to expand offerings.

Lê Quốc Hiền, owner of Lê My Vineyard, said his family cultivates nearly one hectare of green and Japanese pink grapes, using staggered harvesting cycles.

Initially, they grew grapes solely for sale, but due to growing interest from friends and relatives, they decided to open the vineyard to visitors.

During peak season, the farm welcomes guests to explore, take pictures, taste fresh grapes and buy products.

As demand increased, Hiền’s vineyard alone could no longer meet visitors' needs, and he partnered with other local farms to ensure year-round access. 

When one vineyard nears the end of its harvest, another takes its place. Over ten vineyards are currently joining this network, covering approximately five hectares of sustainably grown grapes, ensuring a constant supply for tourists.

Most vineyards cultivate Japanese pink grapes, a premium variety favoured by both traders and visitors. 

These grapes are renowned for their large, crisp texture, mild and sweet taste and signature aroma. 

Grapes can be used in high-quality wine and juice production. VNA/VNS Photo

Besides being a popular fresh fruit, they are also used to make wine and juices.

To ensure both visitor safety and productivity, vineyard owners employ organic farming methods, using natural fertilisers to maintain crop health and yield.

Vineyards open daily business from 5.30am to 6pm, with the busiest time in the morning with some vineyards receiving hundreds of visitors every day. 

In addition to selling grapes to traders, they also allow visitors to pick their own for prices ranging from VNĐ120,000 to 150,000 per kilogramme. 

Vineyard owners also sell grape seedlings and processed grape products.

According to the Tuy Phong District People’s Committee [district administration], the region has immense potential to develop agricultural tourism linked to its specialty crops, including grapes, jujubes, resin-producing trees, chilli peppers and medicinal plants like ginseng. 

Agri-tourism has opened new economic opportunities for local farmers while promoting Bình Thuận’s tourism industry.

Beyond Tuy Phong, other districts, such as Hàm Thuận Bắc, Hàm Thuận Nam, Hàm Tân, and Tánh Linh, are also developing agricultural and community-based tourism models. 

Đức Linh District offers experiences centred around Đông Hà green-skinned pomelos and Rô Mô durians, while Bắc Bình features tours of cantaloupe farms and iguana farms.

The Bình Thuận Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has reported that there are currently 28 operational agri-tourism sites in the province. 

Various eco-tourism and farm tourism models have proven effective, with agri-tourism not only helping out farmers themselves but also strengthening the local tourism industry. 

Additionally, One Commune One Product (OCOP) items have gained recognition as regional specialties, increasing their market value through tourism.

Agricultural and eco-tourism have introduced a new, sustainable approach to tourism development while revitalising rural areas.  VNS