Peninsula Shanghai

Eschew the frenzied pace of Shanghai’s city centre for a more serene atmosphere at this beautifully preserved historic hideaway in the Xuhui District. Traditional shikumen-style townhouses, which were built in the 1930s by French settlers, now encompass 55 elegantly presented villas.

The interior of each one, two or three-bedroom villa is reflective of the city’s former French influence, and further enhanced with marble bathrooms, modern comforts and traditional Chinese touches. Positioned across several levels, the accommodation, some of which features living rooms and rooftop terraces, still retains its original red-wood framed windows that open up to reveal charming garden courtyards.

In-room dining is available, or you can feast on refined French innovations at the Michelin-starred Le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire. You can also enjoy a taste of baked French goodness from Le Boulangerie, and sip your way through the cocktail menu on the expansive leafy terrace, or in the polished low-lit bar, serving up the ultimate post-dinner tipples.

An award-winning spa will have you breathing easy again, with its selection of holistic treatments, relaxation lounge, vitality pool and floatation tank. If you want to get more active, there is a 24-hour state-of-the-art gym, which also hosts private yoga sessions. Otherwise, the dedicated Capella team can arrange guided tours of the estate and the local area, cooking and painting classes, as well as rum-tasting.

Aptly found in the middle of Shanghai in a historic lane-house location, The Middle House offers guests a luxurious space which epitomises urban sophistication. It provides a much needed oasis, with its abundance of outdoor terraces, amidst the bustling backdrop of one of China’s largest city.

The design of the hotel was inspired by the city’s rich heritage of craftsmanship, and combines a minimalist style with various modern interpretations of traditional Chinese elements. Here you will find a varied collection of four studios, a Gallery Suite and a Penthouse Suite. All offer a complimentary Maxi Bar, as well as generous-sized windows with stunning views of the city, while some boast private outdoor spaces to allow you to immerse yourself in the Shanghai skyline.

Food lovers can delight in the vast range of restaurants, bars and international cuisine here. For contemporary Italian cuisine and a selection of fine wines there’s no better place than the casual yet sophisticated Frasca Italian Restaurant. However if you wish to explore China’s culinary highlights head to Sui Tang Li where you can indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine inspired by Cantonese, Sichuan and of course, Shanghainese delicacies. Meanwhile, Cafe Grey Deluxe showcases seasonal ingredients and is the perfect spot to grab breakfast or a cocktail at sunset on its beautiful terrace.

The Waldorf Astoria Shanghai, found in the prime waterfront location on the Bund, just five minutes away from Nanjing Road and the tranquil Yu Garden, truly boasts an old-world glamour. This glamour is no doubt derived from its careful restoration and origins in the Shanghai Club, built in 1911, which was known for its neo-classical style and architecture.

Here you will find 260 luxurious guest rooms and suites which blend old-world charm with a modern edge. Each room has marble-finished spacious bathrooms and services include a personal concierge who shall anticipate your every wish.

Waldorf Astoria’s Pelham Restaurant is a fantastic option for fine dining, where you can indulge in French cuisine or regional Chinese cuisine. For after meal drinks, head to the historic and award-winning Long Bar, which offers beautiful sweeping vistas of the river and a varied and exotic drinks menu.

For quick refreshments throughout the day, visit the tranquil Library Lounge where you shall always find free coffee, tea and snacks.

This city is known for its high energy, however if you run out of yours after a busy day of exploring, head to the heated indoor pool and flick through the vast menu of restorative treatments at the stunning Waldorf Astoria Spa.

Set on the outskirts of downtown Shanghai, surrounded by verdant camphor trees in a pristine setting of ecological focus, Amanyangyun is the striking result of an ambitious architectural undertaking. Involving the restoration of 13 Ming and Qing dynasty villas, moved brick-by-brick from the southern city of Fuzhou, guests are offered a fascinating glimpse into China’s past, all amid comfort and luxury.

In addition to the 13 antique villas, there are also 24 contemporary suites, which include the likes of living areas with a fireplace, private courtyards and outdoor bathtubs. The villas range from one to five bedrooms and benefit from exclusive use of the villa area’s pool, Jacuzzi and garden. Throughout the villas and suites, guests will enjoy a refined contemporary design, alongside a nature-inspired aesthetic that achieves peaceful seclusion.

An extensive range of dining options are on offer at the hotel, with delicious Chinese dishes provided by Lazhu, sumptuous Italian fare served by ARVA and tasty Japanese cuisine the focus of NAMA. For refreshments and the likes of afternoon tea, The Bar is the ideal venue, while the Cigar Lounge presents premium drinks and light meals.

Amanyangyun’s huge spa and wellness complex can be found set around the central courtyard, complete with countless treatment rooms, relaxation lounges, pools, a fitness centre and a pilates and yoga studio. For something slightly different, Nanshufang is the hotel’s cultural hub, presenting a space for contemplation, as well as discovery of Chinese traditions such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy lessons and brush painting.