33 Best Hotels in Southwestern China, China

Far away from the hubbub of Yangshuo, the Yangshuo Mountain Retreat is one of the area's most relaxing places to stay. Rooms are cozy yet spacious and tastefully furnished, and the food and service almost impeccable. It's ideal for small families or a romantic getaway.

With nice views of the bridge crossing the Yongjiang River, this is one of Nanning's most venerable luxury hotels. It offers modern and comfortable rooms, albeit ones with slightly uninteresting decoration. The service is very friendly and forthcoming and the hotel has a rooftop swimming pool on the third floor. This is a great base for exploring town.

The "Terrace of Serenity" more than lives up to its name. Built on a patch of regrown tropical forest, this resort lets you watch the Mekong River slide by from your hammock while you listen to birds sing or tree frogs croak—sounds that are increasingly rare around Jinghong proper. The guest rooms, resembling Dai houses on the outside, are all different on the inside, and some have furniture dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Dreamy terraces and bathrooms smoothly blend in with the jungle outside. The restaurant, one of Jinghong's best, is worth a special trip.