Chengdu: Dingmugou Canyon & Xieyuan Old Town Day

Beat Chengdu's summer heat on this relaxed private day to the leafy Dingmugou canyon and the charming Xieyuan ancient town. After a comfortable hotel pickup, your private vehicle and English-speaking guide drive you about two hours into the cool green hills.

The day starts with an easy, scenic walk at Dingmugou, an out-and-back stroll of roughly four kilometres along a gentle valley boardwalk. Steep cliffs rise on either side while a clear stream runs below, and you'll pass pretty cascades and pools, the 'Dragon's Roar Falls' and 'Layered Green Pool' among them. It stays pleasantly cool here even in midsummer, perfect for a slow, refreshing wander. A relaxed lunch, country-style sizzling chicken or a packed picnic, can be enjoyed in the scenic area.

In the afternoon a short drive brings you to Xieyuan, a photogenic 'internet-famous' ancient town ringed by mountains. Browse its many arty little shops, soak up the nostalgic 1970s-80s atmosphere, and, if conditions allow, cool off by paddling in the shallow stream that runs through town.

Throughout the day you travel privately with just your own party, so everything moves at your pace, with plenty of time to relax, take photos and breathe the fresh mountain air. In the evening you'll be driven comfortably back to your Chengdu hotel after an easygoing, authentic taste of the Sichuan countryside.

Cool, easy private day from Chengdu: stroll a shaded canyon boardwalk past streams and waterfalls at Dingmugou, then wander the artsy Xieyuan ancient town. Guide, private car and lunch included.