Amanfayun

The Amanfayun (Hangzhou Fayun Anman) lies hidden in a valley to the west of West Lake. The 20-minute drive from the center of Hangzhou takes one along densely wooded bamboo and tree-lined avenues, past the botanical gardens and inner waterways of West Lake, to the temples and village of Tianzhu.

The resort and its surrounding tea fields lie just beyond Tianzhu, below North Peak and adjacent to Lingyin and Yongfu Temples, occupying an area of 14 hectares. Access to Amanfayun's Reception House is via a narrow roadway that is bordered by thick forest and groves of bamboo.

Housed in a complex of buildings, some of which have a 100 year history, all rooms are unique and feature underfloor heating, air conditioning and Internet plus domestic and international direct-dial phones, umbrellas, hairdryers, safes, coffee/tea makers, mini bars and refrigerators. Ipod/iPhone docks and televisions are available on request. Furniture is inpired by classic China and given an updated twist. Most accommodation units are open to private or semi-private courtyards with informal outdoor dining and lounging areas.

The Restaurant is tucked away behind a grove of evergreens and offers picturesque views. This is the only outlet which serves Western cuisine. The menu features a number of classic international dishes, in essence offering guests finely-crafted comfort food. The Restaurant also houses the Bar which is suitable for informal dining throughout the day as well as pre- or post-dinner drinks.

The Amanfayun's Aman Spa consists of five separate buildings surrounded by bamboo groves, tea bushes and Magnolia trees. The Spa offers eight treatment rooms, a reflexology room, a fitness centre, a room dedicated to tai chi, yoga and meditation, and a Finishing Salon. Massage and body treatments draw from traditional Chinese massage and reflexology, as well as from ancient Asian healing therapies. The Finishing Salon provides hair spa treatments, manicures, pedic