The entire West Lake Scenic Area covers 60 square kilometer even though West Lake itself is only 5.6 sq km. The lake is surrounded by hills on three sides and faces downtown Hangzhou on the fourth side. The peaceful West Lake, the jewel of Hangzhou, has two causeways (Bai and Su), which separate the lake into five parts. The lake also had three manmade islands: Three Pools Mirroring the moon, Mid-lake Pavilion and Mr. Ruan Yuan's Mount all in the outer lake.
West Lake is famous not just for its beautiful waters but also for its surrounding hills with irregular shaped peaks and dense forests that provide gorgeous fall foliage. During the springtime, many flowers will bloom scattering color across the lake's mountainous backdrop. The lake's change over the seasons presents scenery that just keeps getting more beautiful.
The West Lake Heaven and Earth project, occupying an area of 30,000 sq meters, is currently in the first stage. It will spread to 50,000 sq meters upon completion. The project consists of designs by many world famous designers that show Chinese architectural styles from the past to the present.
Right by the resort are cafes, shops and other types of entertainment so you are sure to never run out of activities.
