Daylesford Retreat Simian Mountain: Chongqing's Mountainous "Monument Valley"

Nestled in the U-shaped valley of Simian Mountain, a 5A-rated scenic spot in Chongqing, Daylesford Retreat Simian Mountain features three building clusters—"Leaning on the Mountain," "Viewing the Mountain," and "Hidden in the Mountain"—that dance with the clouds and mist, boasting a 270° panoramic mountain view. It takes approximately 145 minutes by car from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, or 106 minutes by car after arriving at Chongqing West Railway Station by high-speed rail, to reach this secluded paradise. The white-walled and black-tiled buildings, along with the Monument Valley-style staircases built with red sandstone blocks, transform mountain living into a visual feast where modernity and retro styles intertwine.

Designed with the philosophy of "minimal disturbance to nature," the building's base is constructed using local rubble, reclaimed wood, and red sandstone. Giant stones and ancient trees are integrated into the space, turning each window into a frame for a mountain landscape painting. The three staggered building clusters follow the contours of the mountain, and the grey space design allows for natural ventilation and lighting, enabling guests to enjoy the sound of bamboo even on rainy days. The iconic red staircase winds between the buildings, connecting five functional areas at different elevations, creating a journey that feels like traversing the three-dimensional veins of a mountain city.

The local culinary philosophy of "a piece of cured meat, a fish, a bowl of bean curd, and a basket of vegetables" transforms the bounty of Simian Mountain into a feast for the eyes and palate. Awaken your taste buds in the morning with a bowl of spicy noodles, and savor slow-cooked cured meats over charcoal in the evening, paired with bayberry wine brewed with mountain spring water—a harmonious blend of rustic charm and poetic elegance. For a more intimate culinary experience, reserve a customized menu from the chef, featuring seasonal delights such as wild mushrooms, fresh bamboo shoots, and stream fish.

The common area offers a slow-paced mountain lifestyle. Nature exploration: Hike to the Simian Mountain waterfalls, visit the Wangxiangtai Waterfall, known as the "highest waterfall in China," or explore the real-life location that inspired the story of "Love Ladder." Cultural experiences: A 15-minute drive takes you to Zhongshan Ancient Town, where you can stroll along the dried-rice cobblestone roads, visit old tea houses, and admire the intangible cultural heritage of oil-paper umbrellas, stepping back in time. Relaxing moments: Enjoy a private hot spring in winter, practice yoga in the woods in summer, gather around a stove for tea in autumn—each season offers a unique way to embrace the gifts of nature.

Life in the mountains is a slow rhythm of falling asleep under the stars and waking up to the chirping of birds and the morning light. Here, time is fragmented by the mountain breeze, and worries dissipate with the clouds and mist. Come to Daylesford Retreat Simian Mountain, become a "mountain dweller" for a day, and let the symbiotic beauty of nature and design soothe your city-weary soul.

Post by AudreyAdams | Apr 14, 2025