Mountain rest

ALILA YANGSHUO, GUILIN

The highlight at the newly opened Alila Yangshuo hotel, housed in a former sugar mill in southern China, has to be its setting, with craggy limestone mountains creating a panoramic backdrop. But there’s plenty more to be inspired by. Designed by Gong Dong of Vector Architects, with interiors by Beijing- and Shenzhen-based Horizontal Space Design, the hotel lobby features stark stone walls juxtaposed with bright, modern fixtures, such as abstract bamboo sculptures and a glossy red circular banquette recessed into the floor. There is also an expansive outdoor pool. The 117 rooms, suites and villas sport a more streamlined décor, with shades of brown dominating the palette, including refined wooden headboards with clay etchings, herringbone rugs, midcentury modern chairs and bamboo accessories. It’s a colour scheme that seamlessly mimics the hotel’s natural surroundings, bringing the beauty that’s outside in. Chadner Navarro Block 11, No. 102, Donglin Street, Yangshuo Town, tel: 86.773 8883 999, alilahotels.com. Rates: from CNY1,380 ($206)

DOCK STAR Top, the original sugar cane loading dock has been transformed into an expansive swimming pool overlooking the River Li with a spectacular mountain backdrop RED HOT Above, the hotel lobby’s airy space is dotted with midcentury furniture and...