With a diverse terrain of mountains, rivers, majestic plateaus, grasslands, tea hills, and ancient forests, along with rich cultural heritage, Son La holds an important advantage in developing sports tourism. Among its highlights is Moc Chau Tourism Area, covering 206,150 hectares across Moc Chau and Van Ho districts, offering the perfect setting for adventure sports, eco-sports, and outdoor experiences.

One of the province’s signature events is the Vietnam Trail Marathon, held annually when valleys bloom with white plum blossoms. Every year, thousands of athletes from across Vietnam and around the world gather in Moc Chau for the tournament. This year’s event welcomed more than 3,000 runners from 40 countries and territories, competing in distances of 70 km, 42 km, 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km along scenic trails winding through peaceful villages, tea hills, grasslands, and valleys filled with plum and apricot blossoms.

Moc Chau is widely regarded as one of Vietnam’s most beautiful trail-running destinations. In 2025, the Vietnam Trail Marathon celebrated its 7th edition in Moc Chau.

Stephen Anthony Brakey from Ireland, the first to finish in the men’s 42 km category this year, shared he has raced in many places around the world, but Moc Chau truly stands out. The wild, majestic landscapes, the warmth and friendliness of locals, and the professional event organisation made this an unforgettable experience. He said he will definitely be back with his friends to explore more of this incredible land, he said.

Nguyen Thi Hoa, Vice Chairwoman of the Moc Chau township People’s Committee, said these sporting events attract a large number of tourists, creating significant economic and social impacts. They also help promote the Moc Chau National Tourism Area as one of Asia’s and the world’s top nature destinations, bringing it closer to both domestic and international travelers.

Taking advantage of its natural terrain and scenic landscape, Van Ho district has coordinated to host various sporting events such as the Vietnam Off-Road Motorbike Racing Championships in 2022 and 2023, and the VTV Cup Mountain Bike Race in 2024. The professional, nationwide competitions attracted foreign athletes living in Vietnam.

Vu Thanh Hai, Vice Chairman of the Van Ho district People’s Committee, said that the district provides the best possible conditions for organisers to survey and host sporting events. Through these events, Van Ho not only promotes its diverse tourism potential and rich local culture to domestic and international visitors but also unlocks its natural advantages, boosting local tourism.

In recent years, localities in the province have organised various sporting activities linked with travel and adventure experiences, such as the Legendary Hai Mountain Climbing Challenge in Son La city; conquering Ta Tao Peak in Ngoc Chien commune, Muong La district; reaching Phu Sa Phin Peak in Hang Chu commune, Bac Yen district; summiting Khau Pum Peak in Chieng Khay commune, Quynh Nhai district; as well as paragliding and wakeboarding on the hydropower reservoir. These events have attracted large crowds of locals and visitors, playing a key role in promoting Son La’s diverse and unique tourism products.

Do The Cong, Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, said localities have worked closely with relevant sectors, particularly tourism, sports, event organisers, and tour operators. This collaboration has helped create a well-coordinated service chain, leaving a positive impression on both domestic and international tourists who experience the sports tourism offerings.

Developing sports tourism is a vital step in diversifying the province’s tourism offerings, positioning Son La as an appealing destination for both domestic and international visitors exploring the Northwestern region.