Resort lifestyle in the shadow of spectacular Huangshan

Libre Resorts, a new provider of all-inclusive vacation facilities, has unveiled its first property located in close proximity to Huangshan Mountain - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China's top tourism destinations.

At just 15 minutes from Huangshan city airport, the resort hopes to offer more than just being near China's "most beautiful mountain".

Unlike at traditional hotels, guests at the resort can entertain themselves playing pool and video games, relaxing in Japanese-style hot springs, practicing archery, playing mini golf, or enjoying a drink in the bar, all without setting foot outside.

The resort also features a unique pet salon and kids' club so that the whole family - even man's best friend - can have a good time.

"Libre is the French word for freedom, which means we want to give our customers the freedom to choose, change and customize their vacation when staying with us," said Raphael Erez, general manger of Libre Resorts Huangshan.

"At Libre Resorts, every individual's experience, from you to your beloved one, your children, and even your pet matters to us."

By paying one flat fee, guests can enjoy all meals, accommodation, entertainment and services simply by showing a band on their wrist.

Andy Liu, vice-president of Group Libre Hospitality, which owns and manages Libre Resorts, said the model will be copied and upgraded at upcoming resort properties in Lijiang, Yunnan province and Jiuzhai Valley in Sichuan province.

"We chose places that have rich natural and cultural tourism resources. The resources are our foundation to offering a great vacation," Liu said.

The new properties are being fitted and decorated with the guests' sensibilities in mind so that they can enjoy a relaxing stay. One such example is double doors which prevent noise being heard from the corridor outside.

If you go

Huangshan Mountain, two hours drive away from Libre Resorts Huangshan, is often called the most beautiful mountain in China, offering magnificent views of the peaks among the clouds. The mountain is famous for its odd stones and pine trees that have grown into strange shapes.

Tunxi Old Street within walking distance of Huangshan city has been a busy and bustling area since the Song Dynasty (960-1279). It was the venue where businessmen from Anhui province converged to trade salt, timber, tea, lacquer, medical herbs and stationary.

Chengkan village was built according to principles of feng shui to reflect the harmony between people and heaven and the integration of yin and yang. Strolling in the narrow alleys is like searching a maze. It is 40-minute drive from the resort.

Huijie Street, where inheritors of local Anhui intangible culture have studios open to tourists, is located inside the resort. You can experience activities such as carving on ink stones or bamboo.

(China Daily 02/03/2018 page10)