What’s a trip to the Middle Kingdom capital without a visit to the Great Wall of China?
Its status as one of the 7 new wonders of the world (and its sheer magnificence) means this stone fortress is a must see… But it doesn’t mean you have to put up with busloads of yelping tourists and queueing with the hordes to climb the endless steps.
Instead, hop along to The Schoolhouse, nestled in the village beside the restored Mutianyu section of the wall (which, we might add, has an easy-access cable car up and fun toboggan down). Converted from a former school campus, this chic, sustainable complex now houses eateries, an art space, plus boutique accommodation if you just can’t bear to leave.
At the Schoolhouse canteen, farm-to-fork fare takes top marks, with daily specials crafted from local crops and homegrown ingreds, or carb up at rustic noodle shop Xiao Lu Mian. For a spot of culture post-nibble, the converted village tractor station now holds art exhibitions and even folk dance sessions, if you’re feeling bold.
If you’re feeling fatigued from a day on the wall, or you just aren’t ready to call it quits yet, indulge in some eco-chic respite at the nearby former tile factory turned 16-room lodge, Brickyard Retreat. Spend the evening in one of the restored farmhouse suites, each fitted with skylights and rainforest shower with a view, then take sundowners at the fireplace’d lounge, or opt for a candlelit pamper at the spa. How’s that for seeing the Great Wall in style.
The Schoolhouse, 12 Mutianyu Village, Beijing, +86 10 6162 6506, theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com
Brickyard Retreat, Beigou Village, Beijing, +86 10 6162 6506, brickyardatmutianyu.com
For more chic sites in Beijing, check out the LUXE Beijing guide or download our fabulous new app with maps!
