The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company has signed an agreement with Sichuan Jiuzhai Luneng Eco-Tourism Investment Development Co Limited to open its first all-villa property in one of China’s earliest UNESCO world heritage sites, Jiuzhaigou Valley.
Located on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau in South West China, the property will enjoy striking views close to multi-level waterfalls, blue lakes and verdant forests for which the 72,000-hectare nature reserve and national park is famed. Juizhaigou Valley which translates as the Valley of the Nine Village Forts, is a land of Chinese legend and folklore, with stories of its creation embedded deeply in the customs of the local Qiang and Tibetan tribes.
“We are delighted to be fulfilling the desires of our sophisticated international travellers by opening exceptional properties in new locations,” said Hervé Humler, president and chief operating officer for The Ritz-Carlton. “Working closely with our partners, we will be curating a Jiuzhaigou experience that honours its UNESCO heritage.”
With an elevation of 2,300 metres above sea level, The Ritz-Carlton, Jiuzhaigou, will feature 87 stunning villas with panoramic views over the valley and the snow-capped Min Mountains. The three restaurants and lounges will feature stone-paved terraces with fire pits for evening relaxation. Facilities include an exquisite mountain spa and entertainment offered include a Kids Club, media room and various activity centres.
The natural jewels of Jiuzhaigou, best explored on foot, include the nearby Pearl Shoal Waterfalls with a 310 metres curtain of water, ancient primeval woodlands, a real life Swan Lake famed for visiting birdlife and over 100 exquisitely-named lakes in multiple hues of green and blue which each have their own story to tell.