Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel travel tips and stories. Vacations ideas, cruises, spa and resorts

Constructed in the style of the old Han and Tang dynasties, the Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel is a remarkable architectural accomplishment, as well as a contemporary reminder of the grandeur of centuries past. It is also conveniently situated just a ten-minute drive from the center of Dunhuang, an oasis town west of Xian on the edge of the Gobi Desert.

Long corridors typical of Han design and Tang dynasty touches, such as large roofs with extensive eaves, all surround a traditionally enclosed courtyard. The hotel is conveniently situated close to some of the most significant religious and historic sites in China, including the World Heritage-listed Magao Grottoes, hundreds of caves carved into a 4,250-foot- (1,6000-m-) long cliff face and containing a priceless collection of Buddhist statuary, manuscripts, and murals.

The beautiful Mingsha sand dunes, famous for the ‘singing’ they produce when graced by Turpan‘s desert winds, and Crescent Moon Lake, which they surround, are just a short walk from the hotel. The view of the dunes can be had from the expansive rooftop patio, a perfect vantage point from which to witness the spectacular sunsets while you imagine ancient camel trains heading westward to trade spices and cloth with the nations of Europe.

Location: Dunhuang, Gansu, China.