A MAGICAL RETREAT SET AGAINST A SPECTACULAR BACKDROP

Lijiang is the cultural and historical treasure of Yunnan Province and is set in one of the most beautiful areas of the country, surrounded by a magical mixture of mountains, wild scenery and ethnic minority groups. Here clients will experience the true wonder of China’s diversity.

The city is nestled below Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and has at its heart an attractive Old Town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll down the cobbled streets alongside small waterways and past historic buildings to soak up the atmosphere of this centuries-old settlement. The traditional gardens and temples at Black Dragon Pool possess a beauty that is unsurpassed.

A truly spectacular aspect of the local scenery is Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest and most dramatic gorges in the world. This breathtaking landscape can be experienced with a trek along local trails.

Traditional villages belonging to the Naxi minority group are prevalent in this region. Private guides will introduce travelers to a local family to learn about their traditions and way of life. The contrasts with modern China could not be more striking.

Yunnan Province has many other delights to offer which can easily be combined with a visit to Lijiang. Kunming, known as the City of Eternal Spring, is home to the remarkable Stone Forest where strangely eroded pinnacles form surreal shapes and images. In the north of the province is Zhongdian (or ‘Shangri-La’) which has a large Tibetan population and features the Songshanlin Monastery and the natural limestone pools of the Baishui Terrace. And for relaxation visit delightful Dali to see the famous Three Pagodas, visit a local Bai village and take a boat trip on Erhai Lake.