Steeped in history: Wuyishan in Fujian
Wuyishan in Fujian province offers everything from demanding mountain hikes to serene rafting trips, and is home to some of the world’s most prized tea
Covered in greenery, criss-crossed by clear streams, and home to a host of endemic species, the Wuyishan mountains rise out of Fujian province, forming a natural border with Jiangxi to the north.
Of the 70 square kilometres which make up this biodiversity hot spot,100 hectares have Unesco status, owing to their pristine forests, unique culture and an unusual geology which is dominated by rocky pinnacles — think Guilin in red sandstone. Thanks to biweekly direct flights, Wuyishan is now a mere 90-minute hop from Hong Kong.
OUTDOOR ALTERNATIVES
Fancy reclining in a rattan chair, with cool water rippling over your bare feet as you glide downstream on a bamboo raft?
There are certainly worse ways to recover from a day’s hiking.
Meandering through the mountains, Nine Bend River slices through a landscape of deep gorges and pebbly beaches. Floating along the stream with fish finning about beneath the raft, the ride is so serene you’d be lulled to sleep if it wasn’t for the dramatic views. Bring cold beers and snacks.
To step up the pace, visit between June and September and swap your bamboo raft for a rubber dinghy. If you’d rather keep your feet dry, there are other options: wobble your way across Wuyishan’s ropes course, hire tandems in town, or enjoy a round on the 18-hole golf course.