Toward the end of the year, the Formosa sweet gum forest in western Quang Tri Province, central Vietnam turns a brilliant red and, together with its setting beside a reservoir, creates a majestic yet poetic landscape that is drawing growing numbers of visitors.

In the final months of the year, as the air turns cool, the Formosa sweet gum forest in Huong Phung Commune enters the leaf changing season.

Amid the vast Truong Son range, canopies gradually change color from green to yellow and orange, then to vivid red.

From around November, the forest reaches its most beautiful stage.

The forest lies next to the Rao Quan hydropower reservoir. On clear days without rain, the water turns jade green.

The blend of red and yellow leaves with the green surface of the lake forms a picturesque scene that invites visitors to slow down and take it in.

Many compare the scenery to a slice of European autumn in the sun and wind of central Vietnam.

From Dong Ha Ward, visitors travel west along National Highway 9 for about 70 kilometers, then continue another 10 kilometers on the western branch of the Ho Chi Minh Road to reach the forest.

Visitors can explore the area in different ways.

Some drive to spots along the forest edge and then trek across hills carpeted with red leaves to fully experience the fresh air.

Others take a boat on the Rao Quan reservoir, drifting over emerald waters and watching the Formosa sweet gum trees reflected on the calm lake surface.

“The blazing red forest is truly captivating, making it hard to leave,” said Thao Huong, who visited the place on a weekend afternoon.

“Every corner has its own mesmerizing beauty.”

“Deeper in the forest are lush green meadows interspersed with small streams flowing into the lake, an ideal setting for groups of friends to camp overnight and enjoy the quiet of the forest."

According to experienced visitors, the best times to admire the forest are at sunrise or sunset, when gentle light filters through the leaves to create a dreamy and captivating scene.

Beyond the Formosa sweet gum forest, the Rao Quan hydropower area is also marked by wind turbine towers standing out on the mountain peaks of Huong Phung, creating a landscape that feels both grand and modern.

The meeting of untouched nature and renewable energy adds emotional depth to the journey.

According to the Huong Phung Commune People’s Committee, thousands of visitors came to admire the Formosa sweet gum forest during the final months of 2025 alone.

With its raw and distinctive beauty, the forest in western Quang Tri is becoming a sought-after destination.

The leaf changing season not only delivers breathtaking scenery but also offers a fresh experience that draws visitors back.