Zhangjiajie Four Seasons Lai · Riverside Resort Hotel (Baofeng Lake Scenic Area)

Riverside Resort sits about 100 metres from the visitor center of Baofeng Lake Scenic Area, a five-minute drive from the eastern gate of Wulingyuan National Park and its famous Avatar Mountains — shopping malls, cafés, a hospital and banks are all close by.

The hotel sits right on the river, so you fall asleep to the sound of running water with mountain views all around — a genuinely restful spot away from the city. Guests especially praise "the girls on reception," who not only sort out everyday requests but help plan each day's itinerary hour by hour. There's a pool that's a lifesaver in the heat, a coffee and tea bar, and a barbecue area.

Who it suits: travellers who want to pair a riverside stay with Avatar Mountain views and easy access to the park's eastern gate, plus hands-on help planning their days.

Breakfast is the hotel's regular weak point — a thin selection that doesn't quite justify the price. There are also occasional complaints about limited parking right outside, staff being slow to respond to small requests (like bringing a hanger), and patchy English among some employees. Worth checking on parking in advance if you're arriving by car.