Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel
Dunhuang, China
At a Glance
Wonderful location overlooking Mingsha Sand Dunes
Character property blending traditional Chinese architecture with modern amenities
Superb rooftop café and bar overlooking the sand dunes and great for watching the sun rise and set over the desert
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China’s ancient Silk Road spans 3 vast provinces, stretching from the city of Xian in Shaanxi province through to the westerly terminus at Kashgar in Xinjiang province, close to the border of Kyrgyzstan. With such a vast range of terrain and topography, there are significant climatic changes as you follow this hallowed trading route across China. Xian’s continental climate makes it pleasant year-round, with more rain during the summer months, mirrored by the cities of Lanzhou, Jiayuguan and Dunhuang in Gansu province. It is only as you cross into the more rugged, arid terrain of Xinjiang that the variations in temperature become more apparent. Summers are scorching and winters are bone-chillingly cold, with snow on the mountains and huge temperature variations from morning to night. May is a spectacular time to traverse the Silk Road, as the snow begins to melt and the meadows spring to life with lush green pasture and wild flowers. Autumn is similarly pleasant, with less extreme temperatures and whilst the summers are very hot, the oasis towns across the desert region are bountiful with flowers and fruits and the humidity is low in the westerly reaches of the Silk Road.
Call us on 020 3993 8476 to start planning your holiday to Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel or take a look at our itineraries to China
Description
Designed to resemble an ancient fort, the Silk Road Dunhuang seamlessly blends traditional Chinese architecture with modern hotel amenities creating a delightfully rustic and atmospheric property on the edge of the glorious Mingsha Sand Dunes.
Accommodation
Rooms include those located in a traditional courtyard villa to more modern style Western rooms designed to blend in with the Chinese architecture. While the Suites offer greater space and comfort, all the rooms are spacious with relaxing seating areas. The traditional and rustic décor adds to the overall atmosphere.
Childcare
Children are welcome at the hotel although there are no specific childcare facilities available.
Facilities
Along with a choice of Chinese and international restaurants, there is a fabulous rooftop bar and café with wonderful views of the surrounding dunes. Guests can also enjoy a drink in the Lobby Lounge. There is an onsite minimarket, free bicycle hire, health and massage spa. In addition, the friendly staff are happy to help book and arrange local tours and trips.
Activities
This is a wonderful base from which to explore the history of the Silk Road and enjoy hiking, bathing or sledding on the glorious silky sand dunes. Crescent Lake is also within walking distance, while the famous Buddhist Mogao Caves, a temple system full of ancient Buddhist art is a 30-minute drive away.
Experiences
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Chinese Mural Workshop
We will visit a local painter's studio where you can learn about the arts of Chinese mural painting.
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Dunhuang Celebration Show
Backed by a 360-degree rotating seat with the Mingsha Sand Dune as the backdrop, this is the first large-scale desert live performance in China.
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Foodie Tour of Shazhou Night Market
Slurp down some of the most unique local delicacies such as Dunhuang Rang Pi (brewed bean jelly), yellow noodle, handmade saozi noodle, as well as apricol peel water! There are also plenty of handmade crafts on sold.
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Mogao Caves, Singing Sands Mountain and the Crescent Moon Lake
This full day tour covers Dunhuang's main site including Mogao Caves (including special access caves), Singing Sands Mountain and Crescent Moon Lake with lunch. Enjoy a sunset dinner by the sand dunes.
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Western Thousand Buddha Caves & Yadan National Geologic Park
Today's journey brings you to the Western Thousand Buddha Caves through the Yumen Pass to visit a section of the Han Great Wall and He Cang Ruins. In the afternoon, we visit the Yadan National Geological Park with unique topographical structures.
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Yulin Caves & Dunhuang Museum
The lesser-visited but nonetheless impressive Yulin Caves beckon with unique frescoes. Afterwards, visit Dunhuang Museum to admire the collection sutras and relics from the excavated caves.
Holiday Ideas
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Best of Silk Road
Zhangye, Jiayuguan, Dunhuang, Turpan, Urumqi, Kuqa & Kashgar
from £4700 pp inc flights & transfers for 11 nights
- Get special access to visit restricted caves at the world famous Mogao Caves of Dunhuang.
- Explore the iconic Jiayuguan Fort and Overhanging Great Wall at Jiayuguan.
- Unravel architectural wonders of Bezeklik Thousand Buddha caves and the ancient Jiaohe ruins with a history of over 2,500 years.
- Get special access to visit restricted caves at the world famous Mogao Caves of Dunhuang.
Location & directions
Dunhuang, China
The Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel is located 3-kilometres south of Dunhuang city on the edge of the Gobi Desert. The airport is a 20-minute drive away and the hotel provides a free shuttle service on request.
- 100% financial protection
- 24/7 emergency assistance
- Firsthand knowledge
- Renowned service
- Award-winning tour operator
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