This is one of my favourite places in China and, while the region is developing, it remains a hidden gem worthy of a visit.

About Lianbaoyeze

The Lianbaoyeze mountain range in Sichuan is a serene mountain range that's worthy of being included into any Sichuan road trip.

Majestic snow-covered peaks and crystal-clear lakes combine to make this a place to sit back and enjoy nature.

There is also a cafe that somehow popped up at the top of the mountain that is a perfect place to get inside, grab a snack, a coffee and take a pause from the elements.

While it is currently possible to hike out into the mountain at the base of the road up to the cafe, please remember the altitude - it will take a lot longer than you think.

Getting to Lianbaoyeze

Of course, all of that serenity does mean that the mountain range is not the most accessible of places.

That said, you do have some options.

If you're on a longer Sichuan road trip, you can drive from Chengdu.

If you don't fancy it, then you can also fly from Chengdu to Aba airport directly - and then you can rent a car or a driver in Aba.

Flights depart a couple of times a week so be sure to check in advance.

Staying at Lianbaoyeze

Lianbaoyeze is developing as a tourist scenic area relatively quickly, so there will soon be buses from the national park entrance through to the key spots as well as a cabin rental area inside.

There are also places where you can camp in your car/ camper etc on the side of the road, though as regulations will change very quickly and without notice I'd recommend booking a space at one of the hotels at the gate just as a backup option.

Tips for visiting Lianbaoyeze:

• Lianbaoyeze is at altitude, with much of it over 3000/3500m of alttitude. This can cause some altitude symptoms in some people, so take it slow, pack some extra ibuprofen.

• The cafe at the top of the mountain has an oxygen canister dispenser and I'd recommend grabbing from there just in case you get into difficulty later.

• With the altitude, it can get very cold - especially overnight - so make sure you're properly packed.