Hotel operator The Lux Collective has opened the doors to Lux* Chongzuo, Guangxi Resort & Villas, in Daxin county, southern China.

Surrounded by lush tropical forests with panoramic views of the Karst mountain formation, the brand new 56-key resort marks the beginning of the hotel group’s expansion plans in Asia.

Perched on the edge of Mingshi river, Lux* Chongzuo, Guangxi is all about the art of slowing down through riverside living, connection with nature and a focus on wellbeing.

As of April 2021, a Lux* Me Spa will offer an integrated wellness concept that incorporates fitness, healing methods, new technology, wellness assessment and personalised journeys.

The spa will feature authentic Zhuang-style architecture and be a place for guests to experience traditional Vietnamese al fresco spa treatments secluded by lush greenery.

Guests will also be offered morning yoga or meditation classes by the water, plus access to a 35-metre infinity pool.

“We’re very excited to launch Lux* Resorts & Hotels’ first ultra-luxury property in China in partnership with owning company, Guangxi Daxin Mingshi Yijing Tourism Development,” said Paul Jones, The Lux Collective CEO.

“The extraordinary location coupled with world-class facilities will provide guests with an exclusive sanctuary to experience true luxury – time to enjoy the art of slow travel and to connect meaningfully with the local community, culture, food and music.”

Accommodation options all feature private, river-facing terraces and plunge pools that open up to the vast natural surroundings and tropical forests.

Conceptualised by Teamer International based in Guangzhou, architecture and interiors are designed to integrate with natural surroundings, blending harmoniously into the unspoiled landscape using a natural colour palette, stone and wood materials for the furnishings, and accents of copper.

Guests are also offered two restaurants, three bars, a kids club and a gym with Life Fitness cardio and weight training equipment, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows to maintain the connection to nature.

The Lux Collective operates 14 resorts across the Mauritius, Maldives, Ile de la Reunion and China, under its Lux* Resorts & Hotels brand, as well as Salt resorts, Tamassa resorts and SOCIO.

The group has a development pipeline of nine properties set to open in China, Mauritius, Vietnam and France.

It got its start on the African island of Mauritius in 1985, when a group of investors founded Naiade Resorts. This grew its portfolio of luxury beachfront destinations before rebranding to Lux in 2011.

It was at this point that Jones – who had helped launch and grow the One&Only Resorts business in his role as president – joined the company.