Natural attractions offer refreshing outdoor fun
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E-mail Shanghai Daily, August 10, 2016
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Riding on Meiling Road |
Hiking
Nine Creeks and Eighteen Gullies is a popular summer hiking course, offering cool and quiet amidst the summer heat, with fresh breezes and shade from lush vegetation. After wading across streams and valleys, walkers arrive at a landscape of fields and folk houses where they can take a break and chow down at family-run eateries.
The bamboo-lined path at Yunqi is also popular with hikers. It offers serenity and shade on summer days. Both sides of the trail are flanked by tall bamboo trees, resulting in temperatures two or three degrees Celsius lower than the surrounding area. Along the path, hikers can see ancient trees, as well as historic pavilions and steles.
In addition to the popular hiking routes, there is a less-traveled path hidden away among Hangzhou's hills.
Nine Miles of Pine Trees was an wooded area established during the Tang Dynasty (AD 618-907). Though the pines were felled in the 1930s, they made a comeback in the 1950s, with a path flanked by pines created on the site. Walkers can enjoy the fresh pine scent carried by the breeze as they walk along the path.
Cycling
Cyclists should visit Chun'an's Chunyang Road, which stretches from Jiangbu Bridge to Fenkou Town. It traces the shores of Thousand Islands Lake and is equipped with a bike path. In addition to its gorgeous lake views, the road also takes visitors to several ancient villages and towns.
Another suitable route for bicycling is Zhongling Road. Since ancient times, it has played a vital role in connecting Xiaoshan District and Fuyang County. The zigzaging road is flanked by mountains and bamboo forests, which are often shrouded with mist in rainy days.
Closer to downtown Hangzhou, Meiling Road is great for riding. It connects Meijiawu Village and Lingyin Temple. It also passes the city's main Longjing tea plantations.
