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Linden Centre, Dali

Linden Centre

Dali, China

The Linden Centre is an intimate, traditionally styled property with just 15 rooms. Its countryside location creates a peaceful atmosphere, and you can enjoy views over rice paddies from your room.

The hotel's owners are US expats and have placed emphasis on restoring and preserving the building's style and character. Throughout the property you'll find ancient relics and artwork, as well as influences from Tibet, Myanmar and Mongolia.

With friendly staff and characterful rooms, the Linden Centre is the perfect hotel for guests looking to indulge in Chinese tradition, culture and history.

OUR OPINION:

Much-loved among clients and country specialists alike, the Linden Centre is one of our top boutique hotel choices in China. It will particularly appeal to anyone looking for an authentic rural stay in Yunnan where they can immerse themselves in the local culture.

OUR RATING: Medium

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who's been there
Audley Travel specialist Chris

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Rooms

Having served as a military barracks, hospital and kindergarten since 1947, the Linden Centre has been beautifully renovated and now stands as one of the best examples of vernacular architecture in China. Each room is distinct in design and has been restored to modern standards, yet upholds a sense of traditional Chinese elegance. Superior rooms come with a private, stone-finished bathroom, and have either double or twin beds. For those looking for a more luxurious stay, the Junior Suite is the largest bedroom in the property and boasts some ancient engravings on the walls.

Location

The Linden Centre is on the outskirts of Xizhou, a Bai minority village that dates back to the Ming dynasty, around 15 minutes outside of Dali. Surrounded by mountains and set beside Er Hai Lake, the area is a beautiful landscape of protected wetlands and forests that attract wildlife and birds. You can easily explore the area on foot or by bicycle, and Dali is just a short drive away.

Food and drink

The kitchen staff at the Linden Centre pride themselves on changing the way their guests see local goods. All ingredients are sourced locally from Xizhou's market each day, and menus are adapted throughout the year to suit the season. At breakfast, Western food is available, but for all other meals guests are encouraged to enjoy Yunnan delicacies.

Facilities and activities

One of the best things about this property is that it offers a wide range of cultural activities. You could join a cookery class, learn calligraphy or try playing a traditional Bai musical instrument. Hire bicycles to explore the surrounding countryside and villages, or stroll through Xizhou's market with a guide and learn about the local minority culture. 

Tour ideas in Dali

Our itineraries are there to spark ideas for how you could include a stay at Linden Centre as part of your trip. Treat them simply as suggestions, because every aspect of the trip we create for you will be yours to define.

Location & places nearby

Places & hotels on the map

    Alternative places to stay nearby

    Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favourite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can’t be bettered.

    Experiences while staying here

    The following activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences of the area where you’re staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident’s eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can also suggest outdoor pursuits and activities, such as cooking classes, that will introduce you to the traditions of the area’s inhabitants.

    • Dali, the Three Pagodas & Erhai Lake
      The Three Pagodas, Dali

      Dali, the Three Pagodas & Erhai Lake

      Dali, the Three Pagodas & Erhai Lake

      Explore what Dali and its surrounding area has to offer. First head to Erhai Lake where you board your boat and spend a couple of hours cruising on the beautiful freshwater lake.

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    Dali and nearby places