Healing Blue Waters

Little Erhai typically refers to the scenic areas around Erhai Lake in Dali, Yunnan, or regions with similar landscapes (such as Eryuan County). Below is a classic 2-3 day travel route for an in-depth exploration of Erhai Lake, covering both must-see attractions and hidden gems: ------ 📅 Recommended Itinerary (2-3 Days) **Day 1:** Dali Ancient Town → West Erhai Loop (Ecological Corridor) 1. **Dali Ancient Town** ◦ Stroll along Renmin Road and Foreigner Street in the morning, and try Bai-style breakfast (recommended: grilled erkuai and rushan cheese). 2. **Caicun Pier** ◦ Cycle or take an electric cart from the ancient town to the starting point of the Erhai Ecological Corridor, perfect for photos. 3. **Panxi Village (Instagrammable S-Bend)** ◦ Cycle or walk along the most iconic S-curve of Erhai Lake—best visited early to avoid crowds. 4. **Langqiao (The Lonely Tree)** ◦ A hidden photo spot featuring a solitary ancient tree and a retro arch bridge by the lake. 5. **Xizhou Ancient Town** ◦ Lunch recommendations: Xizhou baba (savory cake) and pea jelly. Don’t miss the iconic Corner Tower and golden rice fields (seasonal). 6. **Haishu Park** ◦ A peninsula surrounded by water on three sides, with photogenic "Couple Trees" and wetlands. **Day 2:** East Erhai Loop (Self-Drive/Private Car) 1. **Shuanglang Ancient Town** ◦ Visit Yang Liping’s Sun Palace Art Space (reservation required) in the morning, then relax at a lakeside café. 2. **Luwang Mountain (Lu’e Mountain)** ◦ Descend to the lakeside for photos at the abandoned window frame and seaside cave. 3. **Wase Town** ◦ Observe local fishermen and boats—ideal for capturing the lake’s shimmering reflections in the afternoon light. 4. **Xiaoputuo Island** ◦ Spot seagulls in winter (November–March); admire the tiny island from afar in other seasons. 5. **Wenbi Village** ◦ Rainbow Road and white wedding venues offer panoramic views of Erhai Lake. 6. **Ideal State (Dali’s Santorini)** ◦ Arrive by evening for sunset photos of white architecture against the lake. Stay overnight or enjoy afternoon tea. **Day 3:** Eryuan/Niche Experiences • **Option 1:** "Little Erhai" in Eryuan County ◦ 1-hour drive north of Dali—visit Cibi Lake and Pear Orchard Village (tranquil and untouched). • **Option 2:** Shaxi Ancient Town ◦ 2-hour drive from Dali—a Tea Horse Road town ideal for slow living. • **Option 3:** Zhemo Mountain ◦ A hidden gem near Dali with sweeping views of Erhai Lake and city nightscapes (reminiscent of Hong Kong’s Victoria Peak). ------ 🚗 Transportation Tips • **West Loop:** Cycling (bike/e-bike) recommended—motor vehicles are prohibited in the ecological corridor. • **East Loop:** Hire a private car (~¥300–400/day) or self-drive; roads are well-maintained. • **Eryuan/Shaxi:** Arrange private transport or take a bus (available at Xiaguan Bus Station). ------ 📌 Important Notes 1. **Sun protection!** Erhai’s UV rays are intense—hats and sunglasses are essential. 2. Book accommodations early during peak seasons (summer/National Day)—Shuanglang and Xizhou fill up quickly. 3. Protect the environment: No littering, and motor vehicles are banned in the ecological corridor.