The Mulian Urban Resort Hotels Huadu

The Sheraton Guangzhou Huadu Resort is a peaceful retreat with an entrance that traverses a pond illuminated by lanterns and flanked by tropical greenery. Golf carts transport guests around this extensive property, with lawns, swing seats, playgrounds, and a walkway along the Li Zui Reservoir. Modern low furniture and floor-to-ceiling windows makes the lobby feel spacious, while paneled artwork and gold angular pillars add artistic touches. It's a far cry from the sterile business hotels in the center of the city, but that seclusion means up to hour-long commutes to the action in town. As such, the hotel draws couples and families seeking a quiet retreat. The hotel is also a popular venue for company retreats -- it includes obstacle courses, including a rock-climbing wall, which are used for team-building activities. 

This hotel is in a quiet location in the town of Beixin, overlooking the Li Zui Reservoir. There's almost nothing within an easy walk, and guests will need their own cars or be at mercy of the hotel's shuttle. Within 15 minutes by car is the Former Residence of Hong Xiuquan and downtown Huadu. Nine Dragon Lake is an 18-minute drive, and Dragon Lake Golf Club is nearby. It's a 55-minute drive to the center of Guangzhou city, which is home to the Opera House and Guangzhou Museum of Art. A paid hotel shuttle goes three times a day to the Guangzhou East Railway Station. From the train station travelers can reach Hong Kong in six hours or Shenzhen in two hours. It’s a 30-minute drive to the Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport. 

The 98 rooms at the Sheraton Guangzhou Huadu Resort have spacious open layouts and contemporary decor that puts them well above many of the other chain outposts in and around Guangzhou. The tall ceilings, wooden floors, recessed lights, floor-to-ceiling windows, modern neutral-toned furniture, and Chinese furnishings convey elegance. A bit of shimmer comes from dramatic polished marble and glimmering metal details -- it looks sharp alongside all of the moody hardwood furniture. Deluxe Rooms offer direct pool access. All rooms have minibars, kettles or coffeemakers, slippers, bathrobes, 37-inch flat-screen TVs, DVD players, irons, and safes. Beds are Sheraton's own excellent brand -- firm, but yielding. Suites have separate living rooms, dressing areas, hot tubs, and lake views. Most villas are freestanding, with pools, hot tubs, and gardens. The largest accommodation is the two-bedroom Presidential Mansion, with a living and dining area, garden pool, and hot tub. Marble bathrooms feature large windows with soaking bathtubs, showers, and some have garden views and whirlpool tubs. Starwood Preferred Guest members get free Wi-Fi, but others must pay a per-day fee.

Located well outside the confines of Guangzhou city, there's lots of room here and features that match. Tropical palms and crane sculptures add a bit of character to the two outdoor pools, creating a lovely atmosphere with cushioned lounge chairs on decks and lawns. There's also a kids' pool and hot tub. Shine Spa is surrounded by ponds with indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, a sauna, hair and nail service, and steam room, among other amenities. The 24-hour fitness center is large with floor-to-ceiling windows, modern equipment, free weights, and nice perks: yoga mats, water, and cold towels. 

Likewise, the resort has a few places to kick back with a bite or cocktail on-site. The Aqua Bar serves poolside drinks at the main pool, and live music plays in the contemporary lobby lounge. Yue restaurant serves Chinese fare in an elegant dining room with lake and mountain views. Feast provides Western and Asian buffets, and terrace dining. Organic produce from the hotel’s farm is part of the menu. Children’s menus and high-chairs are available, and there's a kids' club, along with two colorful playgrounds. The Lake View Lounge has chess, darts, and a billiard table.

For business retreats nine meeting spaces are available, and a 24-hour business center. There are also obstacle courses available that come in handy as team-building exercises. Wi-Fi is only free for SPG members. The hotel also runs a free paid shuttle into town and limo services can be arranged.