Guizhou is an adventurer's paradise

A birds-eye-view of Wanfenglin Scenic Area in Guizhou province on Sept 26, where unique and rare karst landscapes are attracting numerous visitors. FELIX BACHAND/CHINA DAILY

Deep in the province's natural landscapes, visitors can discover parks and resorts giving adrenaline seekers a run for their money along with a chance to relax, Felix Bachand reports in Guiyang.

The China Storyteller Partnerships tour of Guizhou brings guests on an unforgettable journey through the natural wonders of Guizhou province.

Starting with an exhilarating rafting adventure on the Maling River followed by thrilling outdoor escapades at the Funmix-Anlong Limestone Resort and a visit to the mystical Wanfenglin Scenic Area, the tour promises a blend of adventure, culture and breathtaking landscapes in this diverse, culturally rich province.

Bring your adventurous spirit to Xingyi, where visitors can participate in the thrill of river rafting. Guided by experts, you will navigate the clear waters of the Maling River, pass cascading waterfalls, towering cliffs and the ancient remnants of a 500-year-old Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) bridge. Witness friendly villagers immersed in their daily fishing rituals along the riverbanks, adding an authentic touch to your journey.

The Maling River Canyon stretches 80 kilometers within a 200-meter-deep canyon, forming a breathtaking limestone waterfall cluster into the valley where some waterfalls exceed 100 meters in height. The expedition offers a secure 15-km voyage with the intensity of white-water rapids.

Go deeper into Guizhou's unique, rugged landscapes and find yourself at the Funmix-Anlong Limestone Resort, a hub of thrilling outdoor activities. With kayaking, mountain biking, off-road vehicles, hiking and cave exploration, and a heart-pounding 600-meter Via Ferrata course — adrenaline seekers will find no shortage of excitement.

The resort's executive director Wu Bin highlights that the park offers almost 30 outdoor sports and leisure areas and top-notch supporting facilities like tourist service centers, hotels and scenery-viewing platforms.

"The resort is open year-round and is China's first mountain outdoor sports park awarded by the General Administration of Sport of China," Wu says.

The resort operates throughout the year, but peak season is from May to October when the average temperature hovers around 23 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for outdoor activities like Via Ferrata, a type of mountaineering, and off-road vehicles, Wu adds.

Rafting along the Maling River in the province includes passing cascading waterfalls as shown on Sept 25. CHINA DAILY

Accommodation at the resort includes the Cliff Hotel with 11 viewing rooms, the Luxury Tent offering five opulent suites, and the Bush Lodge featuring 18 high-quality cabin-style suites. The park caters to diverse interests and age groups, making it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Conclude your day at the resort's luxurious Cliff Hotel overlooking a mesmerizing infinity pool. You can soak in the beauty of the sunset, making a perfect end to a day of exploration. In 2018, the hotel won the American Architizer A+ Award, one of the most influential architecture awards in the world. In 2024, the interior design won the gold medal of the Japan IDPA AWARD International Pioneer Design Award.

Wanfenglin, known as the Forest of Ten Thousands Peaks, is about 7 km from Xingyi. It is a must-visit when traveling to Guizhou as the scenic area showcases unique and rare karst landscapes and represents a significant geological museum within China.

This landscape, covering over 2,000 square kilometers, pays homage to the region's natural beauty and the enduring traditions of the Bouyei ethnic group. Recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, the area is filled with intrigue and allure.

Guizhou, with its 39 million inhabitants and 17 ethnic groups, stands as one of China's most diverse and culturally rich provinces. Its mountainous terrain has preserved unique traditions, making every step in Guizhou a revelation of adventure and history.

Pack your bags, set your sights on Xingyi and embark on a journey that promises to unveil the beauty and magic of Guizhou.