The winding road from Viang Thong grinds through Sam Yaek Kaw Hing (appearing on some maps as Houa Phou) - the uninviting cluster of huts scratched onto a hillside that marks the junction of Route 1 and Route 6 - before slipping down into a narrow river valley to the village of NAM NEUN . Steep valley walls and a churning river make Nam Neun a diamond in the rough, and for many it's a welcome break from a long day on the road. Drivers chugging along Routes 6 and 7 between Xam Nua and Phonsavan tend to break up the long 240-kilometre haul by stopping here for an hour or more before making the final 140-kilometre run to Phonsavan. If you're stuck, a few beds are available at the Nam Neun guesthouse (under $5), a low wooden building located near the village's restaurants.