High in the mountains near the Shuigan section of The Great Wall lies one of the most incredible collections of hotel architecture in the world. Here in the Chinese countryside the creative design of twelve architects has worked its magic to create The Commune, a tantalising blend of Asian tradition and modern style. The result is a stunning, timeless retreat in a truly awesome location.
Just over an hour from Beijing, The Commune is comprised of eleven distinct and individually-conceived houses and villas and has, since its opening in 2002, won a bevy of awards for design and concept (in other words, this is not your run-of-the-mill guesthouse). So if you're looking for a ground-breaking style fix as a part of your China get-away then a stay at The Commune is a must.
Each house is completely distinct (styles range from minimalism to bamboo- and glass-fused themes) and quality is of the highest standard. The properties range in size from four to six bedrooms and are dotted along the steep slope of the quiet valley facing the Great Wall.
Spend the days taking advantage of your proximity to China's most famous landmark (there's even a private path to the Wall from your doorstep). If you fancy a bit of company then head to the central 'clubhouse' where you can dine in the outstanding courtyard restaurant, browse the gallery, relax with a good book in the library or take a dip in the large indoor pool. It really doesn't get much better than this.
Featured regularly in world's best hotel lists, from Conde Nast Travellers top '100 Hot Hotels' to the '10 Best Boutiques' the Commune is a truly special property. The combination of one of the worlds' greatest landmarks with cutting edge architecture has produced an enthralling, relaxing and simply other-worldly environment. This is the kind of escape that makes you forget about the real world as you discover an entirely new one.
And to help you edge back into bustling life, stop off for a city tour of Beijing. From the calm elegance of the decadent Raffles hotel, the majestic gates of the Forbidden city are just a few steps away. Feel history seep from the high walls as you roam the stone palaces where numerous Chinese emperors lived and ruled. For an added unique twist - and trust us, this is
really exclusive - we can arrange a private tour of Emperor Qianlong's living quarters, completely shut off to the general public. Use this rare gem of an opportunity to explore the home of one of the most famous of the Qing dynasty Emperors, including grand courtyards and separate rooms for calligraphy and tea drinking, still decorated with jades, ceramics, ruyi and other typical Chinese symbols. Afterwards, visit historical Tiananmen Square and shop for treasures in the famous Panjiayuan flea market, where you are more than likely to be haggling beside locals.
