Chess Board Peak

Ban Co Peak stands as a renowned landscape in the province of Son Tra, often referred to as the jewel of Da Nang due to its captivating scenery. Positioned atop Ban Co, visitors can revel in the diverse and abundant natural beauty, along with the refreshing mountain air that harmonizes the elements of mountains, sea, and expansive sandy beaches below. This allure contributes significantly to the widespread popularity of Ban Co Peak among tourists.

Moreover, Ban Co Peak is recognized as "the pinnacle of Da Nang" as it sits at an elevation of approximately 700 meters above sea level. Standing at this elevated point, one experiences a sense of being on par with both the heavens and the earth, offering panoramic views of the winding sea alongside the mountain slopes, complemented by the lush greenery of the surrounding trees. In the distance, one can spot skyscrapers, bridges spanning the Han River, or a solitary boat gracefully floating on the sea.

History

According to the legend, once upon a time, a fairy happened to traverse the Son Tra Peninsula. Captivated by the enchanting blend of mountains and water, the fairy decided to take a break at the mountain's summit and set up a chessboard. It was at this moment that De Thich, an immortal renowned for his chess prowess, happened to pass by and was drawn to engage in a game with the fairy.

The legend of Ban Co peak

For several days, the two immortals engaged in a fierce chess match, with neither able to secure victory. However, in the midst of their intense competition, several other fairies descended to the earth from afar and began playing on the nearby beach. The laughter and merriment of the fairy girls distracted De Thich, leading him to make a crucial mistake. Seizing the opportunity, the visiting fairy capitalized on the error, defeating De Thich, and then ascended back to the heavens. De Thich, pondering over the fairy's chess position, remained seated but could not fathom a solution.

In commemoration of this legendary encounter, people decided to carve a statue of De Thich and inscribe a chessboard on the stone, thus giving rise to the name Ban Co Mountain Peak. The beach where the fairies descended to play was also named Tien Sa Beach in remembrance of this mythical tale.

Top attractions in Chess Board Peak

Conquering the Roof of Son Tra Peninsula

Overview from the Roof of Son Tra Peninsula

In the midst of the space suspended between heaven and earth, one can fully revel in the awe-inspiring natural spectacle that defines the landscape of Da Nang. The air is infused with the refreshing scent of sea breezes, and clouds seem to dance around, adding to the enchanting ambiance. Gazing into the distance, a sense of overwhelming captivation takes hold as the eye captures the alluring beauty of towering skyscrapers, boats gracefully gliding atop expansive waves, and sinuous stretches of white sand beaches tracing the mountainside. The scene unfolds as a harmonious tapestry of elements, creating a visual symphony that encapsulates the majestic charm of the Da Nang region.

Enjoy the Beautiful Panorama of Da Nang

The sunset on the Chess Board Peak

Son Tra reveals its utmost beauty during the tranquil misty early mornings. The sunrise from the summit of Ban Co Mountain unfolds like a breathtaking watercolor painting, with luminous rays of sunlight delicately piercing through the veil of mysterious mist. The warm hues and enchanting panorama that accompany the gradual emergence of the sun create a spectacle that etches profound and unforgettable impressions in the minds of all who witness it. This ethereal moment captures the essence of Son Tra's natural splendor, making the misty early mornings a truly enchanting and memorable experience for visitors.

Camping on Ban Co Peak

Experience camping on Chess Board Peak

An interesting activity not to be missed when exploring Ban Co peak is camping with family and friends. Son Tra is famous for its cool, fresh climate all year round along with charming, dreamy space and scenery. There's nothing more enjoyable than a warm picnic, enjoying delicious food and happily chatting with someone in a wonderful setting like the one above.

Cloud hunting on Ban Co Peak

Clouds often showcase vibrant colors during sunrise and sunset

Ban Co Peak on Son Tra Peninsula unveils its most captivating moments during the early morning, particularly when the fog gracefully blankets the midsection of the mountain. To experience the romantic allure of Son Tra in its misty seasons, consider arriving early, typically from January to February. During this time, you'll witness the delicate interplay of early morning clouds cascading over the ancient forest, creating an enchanting ambiance. On the opposite side, the tranquil surface of the sea exudes an extraordinary beauty, completing the picturesque scene. This period offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the serene charm of Ban Co Peak in the midst of the ethereal morning mist.

Rules when traveling to Ban Co peak in Da Nang

The Management Board of Son Tra Peninsula and Da Nang Tourist Beaches has implemented several regulations for visitors to Ban Co Peak

• All sightseeing and picnic activities for tourists will be limited to the hours from 7:30 a.m to 7:00 p.m.
• Visitors traveling to and from the Son Tra Peninsula must adhere to information control procedures at the guard station. Specifically, long-term yellow cards will be issued to certain groups, including households involved in afforestation activities, graduate students, photographers, and scientific researchers.
• Additionally, for the convenience of tourists, the management board will document the details of their vehicles and contact numbers. This information serves as a quick point of contact in case of any incidents during their visit. These measures are in place to ensure effective communication and safety for all visitors exploring the Son Tra Peninsula.
• Scooters and cars with more than 24 seats are prohibited from traveling up and down the Son Tra peninsula. If tourists want to travel and visit, they can travel by shuttle bus or manual car.

Best time to visit

Being a coastal city, Da Nang experiences weather patterns strongly influenced by the sea. The region witnesses two distinct seasons each year: the rainy season and the dry season. For those contemplating a visit to Ban Co Peak, it's crucial to consider the timing, as the rainy season can render the roads slippery and challenging to traverse, posing potential safety risks. The optimal period to plan a visit is during the dry season, spanning from February to August, when the landscape is at its most splendid.

Journeying to Ban Co Peak unveils unique charms during different times of the day. The early morning offers a refreshing and airy atmosphere, while the afternoon exudes a romantic ambiance. However, many would argue that the morning remains the pinnacle time to ascend the peak. During this time, visitors can immerse themselves in the ethereal beauty of the thin mist enveloping the surroundings and relish the crisp mountain air.

How to get there

There are two routes to reach Ban Co Peak, each offering a unique experience.

Thuan Phuoc Bridge Route:

• Originating from the Thuan Phuoc Bridge, follow Yet Kieu Street and make a turn towards the People's Army Barracks of Naval Region 3.
• Proceed straight up to the summit.
• This route is considered easier to navigate but may not boast the same level of scenic beauty.

Hoang Sa Coastline Route:

• Begin your journey at Linh Ung Pagoda and continue along the path leading directly to the top of the chessboard.
• While this route may pose more challenges, it rewards travelers with captivating scenery and encounters with various renowned attractions along the way.

Depending on personal preferences and physical condition, visitors can choose between these routes. However, based on experience, it is recommended to ascend to Ban Co Peak via the Hoang Sa Coastline Route and descend using the same path. This allows visitors to fully appreciate both routes to the summit of the Son Tra Peninsula, offering a comprehensive and diverse exploration experience.