Alila Yangshuo

ABOUT ME

I am Alila Yangshuo. Wake up overlooking the Karst peaks of Yangshuo in one of my beautifully design houses and feel like Rapunzel when walking out onto the balcony. My views, no matter the angle, will transport you back in time. The five ancient brick buildings found in the center of the property all had different purposes for this once working sugar mill and are now used as the lobby, restaurant, bar, boutique, heritage suite and art gallery. Tucked amidst karst mountains and right on the Li River, the tranquility here is unprecedented. I will impress you with my picturesque views of the pool and the immaculate surroundings. My flawless composition of modern design and ancient structures will make you believe in fairy tales again.

WHAT TO DO AT ALILA YANGSHUO

Rock Climbing. Climb one of the dramatic Karst walls right in Alila’s backyard. Beginner or advanced there is a climb for everyone. Start as a beginner and try more difficult climbs after, if you are up for it. Experienced guides and the proper equipment will be waiting for you, just make an appointment beforehand with one of the friendly receptionists.

Sugar Mill Tour. Learn more about this once working sugar mill and the former purpose of each building in the sugar production process. Outfitted with a map and accompanied by one of the knowledgeable concierge guides, you will travel back to the 1960’s when this mill was in full swing.

Handmade Sugar Treats. If there is one way to wrap up your time in Alila Yangshuo in a little bag to go, then it would be the little syrupy delicacy you will create under the supervision of an experienced cook. Treat yourself and join me for the sweetest experience on sight in the old sugar factory building.

Local Market Days. Experience a morning at a local market and watch locals trade and sell everything from fresh vegetables to grains. The markets are only on specific dates mostly 2 weeks apart but make sure to check in with the reception, so you won’t miss this cultural discovery.

Alila Spa. The spa was inspired by the Karst caves and walking down to the beautiful treatment rooms is an experience in itself. Make sure to try the authentic Balinese massage combined with local black sugar.

SHARED SECRETS

Every night there is a basket bazaar, where you can let your little basket down on the balcony when staying at the Sugar House Retreat rooms and have it filled with late night snacks and goodies of your choice from 8pm to 9pm.

If you walk around the mill, you will find bits and pieces of propaganda slogans on the brick wall from President Mao’s era.

Ask for a romantic candle light dinner at the old tower down by the river and watch the sun disappear behind the stark limestones mountains.

Can you believe that I am over 50 years old?