Location & How to Get There

Thousand Island Lake Lion Hill Manor is tucked away in a peaceful valley near Baizhao Village, Jinfeng Township, Hangzhou. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Hangzhou city center, nestled along the scenic Qianwei Line road. If you’re flying into Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport, rent a car or book a private transfer—public transport here is limited, but the winding mountain roads are worth the journey. The manor sits by a quiet lakeside, surrounded by forested hills, making it feel like a hidden gem far from the tourist crowds of downtown Hangzhou.

Natural Scenery: A Mountain-Lake Paradise

The highlight here is the mountain-meets-lake vibe. Thousand Island Lake (the man-made reservoir famous for its 1,078 islands) is just a stone’s throw away, but Lion Hill Manor feels even more secluded. Rolling green hills wrap around the property, and a narrow river flows through the valley. In spring, wildflowers blanket the trails, while autumn paints the leaves in fiery reds and oranges. Don’t miss the sunrise—wake early to see mist rising over the water, with mountains mirrored perfectly in the glassy lake. For photography lovers, the panorama from the manor’s hilltop deck is pure magic.

Cultural Touches: History & Design

This isn’t just any old resort—it’s built on a site with local heritage. The manor blends traditional Chinese architecture with modern comforts. Wooden beams, stone walls, and courtyard ponds reflect classic Jiangnan (south Yangtze) style, while floor-to-ceiling windows and minimalist decor keep things fresh. Local legends say the area was once a tea-growing hub, and you’ll still spot century-old tea trees on the slopes. Some rooms even have handwoven bamboo furniture made by nearby artisans.

Getting Around: Hikes, Bikes, & Boats

Explore Thousand Island Lake Lion Hill Manor’s grounds on foot or by bike. Trails snake through forests, leading to hidden lookouts where you can spot herons diving into the water. Rent a kayak or small boat to drift along the river—it’s ultra-relaxing. For longer adventures, the manor offers guided hikes to nearby peaks. If you’re feeling lazy, just lounge on the dock and watch fishermen cast their nets at sunset.

Food & Stay: From Farm to Table

The on-site restaurant serves homestyle Zhejiang dishes with a twist. Think crispy lake fish, bamboo shoots sautéed in mountain spring water, and rice wine-braised pork. Vegetables are plucked straight from the manor’s organic gardens. Accommodation ranges from cozy cottages to luxury suites, all with lake or mountain views. Book the treehouse-style villa if you want to wake up among the birdsong. Pro tip: End your day with a hot pot dinner by the lake—perfect for chilly evenings.

Family-Friendly Fun & Romantic Vibes

With kids? Let them splash in the shallow river, feed ducks, or try a tea-picking experience (they’ll love the novelty). Couples can steal quiet moments on the wooden bridge over the koi pond or book a couples’ spa session using herbs grown on-site. At night, the manor lights paper lanterns along the pathways, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere.

Practical Tips

  • Best time to visit: April–October for warm weather, but winter brings snowy mountains if you don’t mind the chill.
  • Pack: Comfy walking shoes, sunscreen, and a camera.
  • Guided tours: Available for nearby Thousand Island Lake attractions if you want to extend your trip.

Thousand Island Lake Lion Hill Manor is all about escape, nature, and slowing down. Whether you’re here to hike, snap photos, or just breathe clean air, it’s a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Just don’t forget to charge your phone—you’ll want to capture every view!