Located in the west of the Mekong Delta, near the border with Cambodia, Chau Doc lies 174 miles (280 miles) southwest of Saigon. A recent addition to Vietnamese territory, Chau Doc was given as a gift from the Cambodian monarch in return for Vietnamese aid in putting down an insurrection. Centuries of trade along the river have created a unique culture, a fusion of Khmer, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences. A famous complex of dozens of pagodas and temples, some set in caves, Sam Mountain's construction reflects the multicultural blend of the area. Stroll leisurely to the top for amazing views of the delta’s pancake-flat, low-lying terrain. The views from the surrounding areas are breathtaking, especially at sunset. Weather permitting, you can easily look out over Cambodia.