According to experts, the Southern Experience Route contains outstanding geological values that reflect the long-term evolution of the Earth's crust. The name “Time of fire flower” evokes the image of glowing lava erupting beneath an ancient ocean, forming basaltic rock layers that remain visible today. The phrase “fire” also recalls the fierce wartime years along the legendary Route No. 4, where the people and armed forces of Cao Bang fought bravely, contributing to the historic Border Campaign Victory of 1950.

The Southern Experience Route connects Thuc Phan Ward with Thach An and Quang Hoa Communes and features 15 remarkable geological, historical, and cultural heritage sites. Each stop along the route serves as a vivid chapter, illustrating both the dynamic geological evolution of the Earth and the resilient spirit of the people living along Vietnam’s northern frontier.

The journey begins in Thuc Phan Ward and follows National Highway 4A, a vital transportation corridor linking Cao Bang with Lang Son Province and the northeastern coastal region. Along the route, visitors encounter majestic limestone mountain ranges, lush green valleys, and colorful stratified rock formations resembling an open-air geological museum. Deep fault systems, evidence of the transition from oceanic to continental crust, rock formations thousands of meters thick, and spectacular karst landscapes together create scenery that is both scientifically significant and visually stunning.

One of the route’s most distinctive geological highlights is the occurrence of pillow basalt formations along National Highway 4A. These rocks were formed when volcanic eruptions occurred on the ancient ocean floor. As molten lava came into contact with cold seawater, it cooled rapidly and solidified into rounded, pillow-shaped masses stacked upon one another. These basalt formations not only create a unique landscape but also represent rare geological evidence of the powerful tectonic and volcanic processes that shaped the Earth hundreds of millions of years ago.

As visitors continue their exploration, they have the opportunity to visit heritage sites belonging to the Special National Relic Complex of the 1950 Border Campaign Victory, closely associated with the strategic leadership of President Ho Chi Minh and General Vo Nguyen Giap during the resistance war against French colonial forces.

A particularly significant stop is Bao Dong Peak, where President Ho Chi Minh made his first direct visit to the battlefield to command and encourage troops and civilians. The Southern Experience Route not only revives the heroic atmosphere of wartime resistance but also contributes to preserving and promoting the revolutionary traditions of this historic frontier region.

Continuing through Khau Khoang Pass, visitors can explore the traditional Bo To traditional sugarmaking village, visit Truc Lam Phat Tich Pagoda, and experience the vibrant activities at Ta Lung International Border Gate. These destinations offer a unique opportunity to appreciate the harmonious blend of natural beauty, historical heritage, and contemporary life in Vietnam’s border region.

After more than two years of operation, the Southern Experience Route of the Non nuoc Cao Bang UNESCO Global Geopark has increasingly established its unique appeal through its rich and immersive experiences. By integrating geological heritage, historical significance, and local cultural values, the route not only enriches visitor experiences but also contributes to improving local livelihoods and supporting sustainable community development.

Along this remarkable journey, visitors are not only able to admire geological features that have endured for hundreds of millions of years but also to feel the enduring spirit of resilience, patriotism, and determination that has characterized the people of Cao Bang across generations.

For this reason, “Time of fire flower” is more than a nature-based tourism route. It is an emotional and inspiring journey where geology, history, culture, and people come together to tell the proud story of a land at the northern frontier of Vietnam.