Crowne Plaza Huangshan Yucheng by IHG

After a long day climbing the local mountains, the gym and pool are a great way to relax, with lovely views over the river. The hotel itself is very nice. You could use the hotel’s car service to get to Huangshan Mountain. It costs a little more, but the car will be waiting for you on the other side when you’re done.

The room felt dark, gloomy, and outdated, with that old-school idea of “luxury.” The switches made no sense, and because they’re all connected, I spent ages going around trying to turn the lights off, Whac-A-Mole style. I gave up and left some on. The switches also control the TV, and I couldn’t find the remote until morning. It was there in plain sight in the photos, if you’re observant and curious, but at the end of a long day I just wanted to pass out. The TV stayed on all night too. The room is clearly well used, and the chair was rickety. The photos taken from a distance are quite deceiving. I expected a lot more from the way this hotel is advertised. Check-in was frustrating because an exhibition or function was underway and a large group arrived at once. It wasn’t clear who was in line, who worked at the hotel, or what the different counters were for. It felt like classic, absolute chaos.

The rooms are roomy and clean, the staff are kind and helpful, and the amenities are all there. I also liked the river view. There are homestays in Tunxi Old Town if you want a different kind of stay, but I found this a comfortable choice and one of the better hotels around town.

The buffet breakfast was a highlight, and the staff were so friendly. We even had a nice chat with the chef when we ate at the hotel one evening. I stayed three nights while visiting Yellow Mountain and would choose this place again if I return.