Banyan Tree Lijiang, China

Lijiang is the ancient capital of the Naxi kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  It is surrounded by rice paddy fields with stunning views of the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

A Naxi-inspired resort, fifty five exclusive luxury villas dot the landscaped gardens and pools, with sweeping Naxi roofs and Oriental themed guest rooms.

Embark upon one of the many day excursions organised by the Banyan Tree and go trekking to the Tiger Leaping Gorge, the Baoshan Stone Village or visit ancient towns like Dayan and Shuhe nearby.

Back at the hotel unwind, oriental style at the Banyan Tree Spa where treatments are based on the philosophy of the five Chinese elements and dine on Naxi-inspired dishes like delicious yak meat served on a bed of flat rice noodles in the Naxi-style pagoda called the Moonlight Pagoda, overlooking the awesome Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

We like: The ethnic Naxi touches throughout the resort.

Best for: A luxury break in a tribal hinterland.