Away from the busiest tourist routes, Xinfeng County in Shaoguan, southern China's Guangdong Province, offers various outdoor activities, from hiking along mountain streams to camping by the water and watching the stars.
For those looking to trade busy itineraries for a slower pace, two stops offer a simple mix of water, open air and a night sky.
A day beside the water
The day begins at Xinfeng Maldives Camping Site (新丰马尔代夫露营地), where tents, tables and barbecue grills can be set up beside the water.
There is little to do here, which is precisely what makes it appealing.
Walk along the sandy shore, follow a stream for a while, or simply sit outside and let the day unfold at its own pace. After a week of screens, traffic and schedules, a few hours without much of an agenda can feel like a treat.
Stay until the stars come out
As evening approaches, head to Sakura Valley (樱花峪) for a night beneath the stars.
The valley has an open camping area for stargazing. On a clear night, spread out a picnic blanket and watch as the last traces of daylight gradually fade from the sky.
If the conditions are right, the stars gradually fill the sky, and the Milky Way may become visible above the valley.
Read more:
Chasing the first colors of autumn in Shaoguan
Author | Liu Xiaodi
Photos | Shaoguan Travel (韶关旅游)
