Holidaymakers heading for the lush mountains of Sichuan province to explore the beauty of the Jiuzhaigou National Park can now do so from the comforts of an equally stunning basecamp.

Rissai Valley is the latest to join the portfolio of only six Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties worldwide, “rare places set aside for those who appreciate an exclusive sanctuary tucked away in the most exquisite corners of the world,” as per the brand literature. While not quite off the beaten path, the Ritz-Carlton Reserves in Puerto Rico’s Dorado Beach, Japan’s Higashiyama, Indonesia’s Mandapa, and other similar exotic destinations are all blissfully far from the madding crowd. Jiuzhaigou, a valley on the Qinghai-Tibet plateau in southwestern China, surrounded by forests, lakes, waterfalls, and alpine mountains, plays host to the new addition.

Working with WATG—behind such projects as Nobu Hotel Los Cabos, Shangri-La Maldives, and the old-world glamorous Venice Simplon-Orient-Express—in collaboration with the late Indonesian interior designer Jaya Ibrahim and Irish landscape architect John Pettigrew, the 87-key Rissai Valley is designed with characteristic elements of traditional mountain dwellings in mind, reinterpreted for the modern traveller. Materials for the villas are locally sourced, the gardens feature indigenous plants, and the interiors reflect the vibrant, jewel-toned landscapes and waterscapes of Jiuzhaigou and local Tibetan craftsmanship. Each villa, ranging from one to three bedrooms, comes with its own private terrace (and a telescope for nighttime stargazing).

Upon arrival, the immersion into Jiuzhaigou begins, starting with a welcome ceremony of Tibetan blessings, through to rare insights into the language, heritage, and lives of locals. From the resort, guests can take in sweeping views of luxuriant forests, the snow-laden Minshan mountains, and traditional settlements in the misty distance.

“Rissai Valley is a truly magical place, nestled in the landscapes and surroundings of one of the most mythical natural wonders of the world,” said Marcel Damen, general manager of Rissai Valley. “We look forward to welcoming guests to a place of marvellous beauty, and to experience the many curated experiences that connect guests with the rich local culture.”

Sophisticated Sichuan cuisine, Mediterranean dishes, afternoon teas, and sundowners are offered across four distinct venues—the Lobby Lounge, La Montagne, Cai Lin Xuan, and the notable Bo Ri Village, which specialises in regional specialities and allows diners to take their meals in a traditional hamlet located opposite the Rissai Valley resort.

In keeping with the tranquillity and improved well-being the resort hopes to inspire, the Rissai Spa draws from “ancient healing modalities and treatments inspired by Tibetan philosophies” to shape its wellness experiences. Yoga by a waterfall? Yes, why not. Sign us up for singing bowl therapy, mountain Pilates, vibration healing, and plant painting, too.

Amenities and facilities aside, the cultural activities programme is just as robust, especially for families with young travellers in tow. Bike or hike your way through Jiuzhaigou’s 180,000-acre nature reserve or join an incense workshop. Rissai Valley’s Reserve Kids’ Club features engaging and educational events such as animal encounters, treasure hunts, outdoor adventures, botanical explorations, Tibetan music and dance, and stargazing.

All images courtesy of Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.