GGuest UserThe most stunning encounter of this Menghai tea tour was undoubtedly the Nanben Mountain Retreat Homestay, nestled in Nanben Old Village, Mengsong Township. Nestled amidst the sea of clouds and tea mountains of Nanben Old Village in Menghai, Xishuangbanna, the white-walled, glass-walled building blends seamlessly with the ancient tea gardens and the Lahu ethnic village, offering views of tea plantations and clouds – a truly poetic retreat. Approximately an hour's drive from Jinghong city, the road conditions are excellent. Advance booking of four rooms includes one free round-trip shuttle service, and there is also dedicated parking available for those driving. Despite its secluded location in the mountains, it is easily accessible.
The rooms blend Lahu elements with modern minimalist aesthetics. Wooden furniture paired with cotton and linen fabrics exudes a natural and rustic warmth. The spacious 40+ square meter rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the morning mist and sunset over the tea mountains, creating a flowing panorama. Lying in bed, one can immerse oneself in the ecological beauty of ”tea in the forest, forest in tea.” The apartment boasts intelligent voice control, a fully equipped bathroom with separate wet and dry areas, thoughtful details like branded toiletries and aromatherapy-infused wardrobes, soft and skin-friendly bedding, and impeccable cleanliness throughout, ensuring an exceptional living experience.
The most captivating aspect is the immersive tea-themed travel experience. In the complimentary tea space, the host brews refreshing and mellow Mengsong ancient tree tea, its aroma blending with the scents of herbs and plants to create a rustic, mountain-like ambiance. In the morning, hike through the ancient tea gardens with tea farmers, breathing in the negative ions, picking fresh leaves by hand, and experiencing the traditional tea-making process of withering, rolling, and drying – a truly rewarding experience (seasonal only). In the evening, relax under the outdoor canopy, enjoy a hearty meal of Lahu-style roasted meat over a fireplace, savoring fresh ingredients and authentic flavors – a truly therapeutic experience for both the palate and the soul.
The warm hospitality adds to the overall experience. Before check-in, the host sent a detailed guide covering sightseeing routes, optimal times for viewing the sea of clouds, and sunset times. The third-floor terrace is a perfect spot for watching the sea of clouds and stargazing. Fall asleep to the sounds of insects and the aroma of tea at night, and wake up to birdsong in the morning – truly a blissful experience.
This place serves as a link between the natural beauty of the tea mountains and the local ethnic culture. Menghai Nanben Mountain Retreat, with its stunning scenery, unique experiences, and heartwarming service, perfectly embodies the aesthetics of a tea-tourism fusion resort. It's undoubtedly the best choice for a trip to Menghai, and I'll definitely return for this mountain retreat next time.
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