Gourmet Trails, which specialises in bespoke culture and culinary journeys, has launched four luxury itineraries across China, tapping into growing demand for slow travel and experience-led holidays centred on wellness, gastronomy and discovery.
The new journeys cover Guangdong (Canton), Sichuan, Yunnan and Fujian, steering travellers beyond China's traditional tourist circuit and instead towards regional food experiences, nature-based activities and cultural encounters.
“Our China journeys are not just about
where we go, but how it is experienced. From nourishing breakfasts grounded in traditional Chinese medicine principles, to beautiful lodgings and scenic hikes through hidden mountain trails – we’ve curated a collection of rare, extraordinary experiences,” said founder Pamela Tan.
She added that the itineraries were designed for both repeat visitors and first-time travellers looking to explore lesser-known sides of China.
The Canton itinerary explores Guangzhou, Shunde and Foshan. Highlights include a gourmet experience at the Black Pearl Diamond Jade River Restaurant – where reservations have to be made far in advance – seasonal menus and health teas for specific body constitutions, and visits to Shunde – a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy featuring multi-generational alley stalls to refined epicurean sanctuaries.
An optional gastronomy extension to Macao can be arranged, inclusive of a special menu at the Michelin-starred Palace Garden Restaurant.
Passing through Sichuan’s Chengdu and the Qingcheng Mountains, the programme goes beyond its famed fiery cuisine, and into the city’s 24 flavour profiles that include non-spicy ones too.
As the birthplace of Taoism, practicing guests can look forward to a luxury mountain retreat inclusive of forest bathing walks to onsens and wholesome meals, where they can try hands-on activities such as tofu making as well. Extensions to Sichuan’s nature reserves such as Jiuzhaigou can also be arranged.
The Yunnan itinerary travels through Dali, Shaxi, Lijiang and villages beyond the famed Shangri-La, blending farm style dining, ethnic culture, mountain hikes and visits to lesser-visited Tibetan monasteries. Travellers can also extend their journey into Tibet.
Meanwhile, the Fujian programme centres on Wuyishan, where guests explore the region's renowned rock tea culture and UNESCO-listed Wuyi Mountains before continuing to Xiamen and Fuzhou for coastal cuisine and seafood experiences. Guests may also opt for an extension to the Fujian Tulou – historic, circular earthern dwellings that also served as fortresses for Hakka communities.
Across all four itineraries, guests can expect a curated accommodation mix of luxury boutique hotels, including Relais & Châteaux properties and independent design-led hotels selected for their local character.