Nestled on 60 acres in the foothills surrounding the Shanghai area's most famous mountain, Moganshan, naked Stables Private Reserve is intent on taking the concept of an eco resort to the next level. We're talking serious luxury in a stunning locale, all within a few hours of Shanghai, either by high-speed train through Hangzhou, or by private car. The crowning glory of the resort has to be the spectacular tree-top villas that have stunning views, huge vaulted ceilings with floor to ceiling windows, private patio Jacuzzi, a large BBQ, and come in two, three, or four bedroom varieties. Each bedroom has its own private shower and bath, making it ideal for company retreats as well as family getaways.

Guests may recognise the naked brand from their first foray into the "escape Shanghai with a return to nature" concept, naked Home Village, but this property is aiming for something a little less, well, rustic. These villas come with butler service at your beck and call and electric golf carts with drivers to whisk you around the private valley, as cars are not allowed past the main parking lot. The three swimming pools, private hilltop pool rentable by the hour, and spa all ensure that time on the resort will be spent as relaxed as possible. For its first few months of operation in October & November, there is a buy one night, get one free promotion, as the staff gets fully trained and all facilities become 100% operational.

You're probably not alone in thinking, "How do luxury and ecotourism really fit together anyways? Wouldn't it be better off to leave the property alone?" The truth is for land that probably would have been developed at some point in the near future, the resort does a very nice job of taking efficiency and an awareness for the surroundings into consideration in all elements of the design – something that another developer may not have done. They are going after the highest level of LEED certification, and all of these efforts combined will hopefully raise the profile of environmental awareness among the Chinese and international clientele. At the very least, it's a way to have a conversation
about the impact of development in China and how to do it the "right way."

Dining

The main eatery, Kikaboni, (meaning ‘organic' in Swahili) is being developed into an Afro-Asian inspired restaurant. On my visit, the menu was still in flux, but the goal is to source organic produce from the property's own gardens as much as possible, and then from the surrounding farmland. There's also an all-day Pool Bar and Bistro, the Clubhouse Café and 24-hour room service is available in all the rooms.  If you're looking to barbecue on the huge villa patio with your mates, you can bring your own supplies, or just make requests to your butler and they will have everything waiting.

Entertainment

In addition to being just a few miles away from all the hiking and views that Moganshan National Park is known for, the resort aims to help guests reconnect with nature through biking and hiking or exploring the tea terraces that dot the property and surrounding area. The Private Stables part of the name refers to the equestrian facilities that have been built to house up to 20 horses for guests' use as well.

Four unique huts near the clubhouse also offer activities such as a pottery studio, tea roasting lessons and tearoom, and an area to learn about bamboo and how the resort was built. This should keep the little ones entertained while the adults are lounging by one of the poolside bars. Within an hour's drive there are also several golf courses to choose from, bamboo forests and lakes, as well as the West Lake and everything that Hangzhou is so well known for.

Well-being

It may be an eco minded resort, but that doesn't mean there isn't pampering involved. The naked Leaf Spa & Wellness centre is hidden in the trees to ensure privacy and luxury in the personal hut treatment rooms. A range of services will be available from massage, to a more personal, holistic wellness program, including diet, exercise and spa treatments.

Getting There

The most practical way to get to the resort would probably be the combination of high-speed train to the Hangzhou station, which takes about 40 minutes, and pick-up service from the team of drivers from the resort. Alternatively, the resort will arrange car service from your home or office in Shanghai, but this will run from 2500-3200 RMB for six to nine passengers. From the train station to the property, the shuttle is just 350-550 RMB for the same number of passengers.

For more information on packages and special deals check ttp://www.nakedretreats.cn/naked-stables-private-reserve/ or for reservations:
+86 (21) 6431 8901/info@nakedretreats.cn

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