The China Overseas Hot Spring Resort (Zhonghai Hongyang
Huizhou Tangquan) in Huizhou is a lush, secluded getaway that effortlessly
blends traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern luxury. Nestled amidst the
verdant greenery of Huizhou, Guangdong Province, this resort offers an
immersive retreat into tranquility and natural beauty, far removed from the
bustling urban landscapes of China.
Arriving at the resort, I was immediately struck by the unique entrance—a tunnel beneath a highway that feels more like a hidden portal to another world. With mirrored orbs reflecting the lush surroundings and a carefully curated ambiance, the entrance sets the tone for what’s to come. The rain that greeted my arrival added an ethereal touch, enhancing the shimmering greens and the soft sounds of water that seem to echo throughout the property.
The resort spans an impressive area, filled with winding
pathways, lush gardens, and traditional villas. It's easy to get lost—both
literally and figuratively—amid the maze of walkways, which occasionally open
up to intimate plazas or secluded courtyards. Even finding the lobby proved to
be an adventure, as it’s not located near the parking lot but instead perched
on a picturesque bridge, overlooking the serene grounds.
The accommodations are as varied as the sprawling estate
itself. From modest hot spring rooms like mine to opulent private villas with
walled gardens and personal hot tubs, the resort caters to a wide spectrum of
guests. These villas, priced upwards of 3,000 RMB per night and reaching as
high as 30,000 RMB, offer the ultimate in privacy and luxury, making them ideal
for families or groups seeking an exclusive retreat. While I couldn’t afford
such indulgence, I couldn’t help but admire the tasteful elegance of the
architecture and interiors.
The hot springs are undoubtedly the heart of the resort.
Scattered throughout a nearby hillside, these natural pools are seamlessly
integrated into the surrounding jungle, creating an intimate and serene
environment. Unlike the typical resort layout where everything is openly
visible, the hot springs here require a bit of exploration to discover. Each
pool feels like a hidden gem, surrounded by greenery that provides ample shade
and an undeniable sense of calm.
Visiting during the evening, I found the springs even more
magical. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the jungle began to glow with
subtle lighting, and the natural rock pools took on an inviting warmth. While
the occasional laughter of children echoed in the background, I managed to find
a quiet pool to enjoy the soothing waters. This is what I came for—moments of
solitude, immersed in nature, with only the gentle sound of flowing water to
accompany my thoughts.
The dining experience, while not extravagant, was
satisfying. Breakfast offered a traditional Chinese spread with a variety of
options, from steamed buns to congee, catering to both locals and adventurous
travelers. For me, mornings at the resort were a highlight. The cool morning
air, the soft strains of traditional Chinese guzheng music, and a freshly
brewed cup of coffee created a perfect start to the day.
The architecture, with its traditional Chinese motifs and
meticulous attention to detail, evokes the grandeur of ancient China while
accommodating modern sensibilities. Each corridor and plaza feels like a
tribute to history, offering a sense of timelessness that’s increasingly rare
in today’s fast-paced world.
The service throughout my stay was exceptional. From the
English-speaking staff member who greeted me at check-in to the ever-available
buggies that whisked me around the property, the staff ensured that every need
was met with professionalism and warmth. As a foreigner, I was told that my
presence at the resort was a rarity, which made the hospitality feel all the
more personal and genuine.
Even small details added to the charm of the experience. The
unmanned supermarket, a futuristic convenience tucked into a corner of the
resort, was both amusing and practical, although it did require a bit of
navigation to avoid being trapped between its automated doors (not that I would
know from personal experience, of course).
Huizhou itself is known for its natural beauty and abundant
hot springs, making it a popular destination for wellness and leisure. The
resort capitalizes on these attributes, offering an escape that feels worlds
away from the city. Despite the rainy weather and occasional interruptions from
noisy neighbors, the resort managed to provide a deeply restorative experience.
Whether soaking in the hot springs, wandering through the
lush gardens, or simply listening to the rain from my balcony, every moment
felt like an invitation to pause and savor the present. It’s a feeling I
carried with me long after I’d checked out—a reminder of the simple yet
profound joys that nature and thoughtful design can offer.
Rojo Rating:
- Location: 8
- Facilities: 8
- Amenities: 8
- Décor: 8
- Staff: 7
- Food: 6
- Cleanliness: 7
- Comfort: 7
- Uniqueness: 7
- Value: 7
Total: 73/100