What People are saying
Could be brilliant, but first needs more polish
RobertCBoston on 09/12/2016 08:35
Sitting in your own private mineral spring tub on your deck, overlooking a breathtaking view of water and mountains, would seem to be close to finding Shangri La. But, looking around, one finds a certain fraying around the edges in the fit and finish of the facilities, demeanor of the patrons, and overall feel of the environment. This is the most expensive spa experience in the region, and should be on a par with Canyon Ranch and other resorts that hold themselves out as luxury accommodations. In this, Brilliant fails to shine. The mineral pools - there are about 20 of them - differ only in temperature, unlike other Chinese spas that treat each pool with unique blends of herbs and flavorings (e.g. sandlewood, coffee, mint, etc.). One moves from pool to pool, and feels a certain monotony pretty quickly. Then, the spa takes in locals at a discount - a lunch and soak package - resulting in lots of folks yelling, screaming kids and lots of mobile phones snapping photos of .... you can only guess who. Don't come here expecting 5 star exclusivity. The location can't be beat, but the resort needs to live up to its name.
Emperor
Westwood11 on 15/10/2015 01:24
Upon entering this resort, I felt like an Emperor.
The shuttle took us to our room and the room over looks the most relaxing massive gorge.
If you want to forget a bad relationship or get over an issue in city civilisation, this is it!!!!!!!!!
TV pops up from the bed ..... Awesome.
Had dinner in a private room with local amigos and felt like Michelin chef was present. Although food looks great but tastes ok. Service with a smile so a big plus.
Breakfast is just ok..... I will let you find out why!!
It is not bad at all but ... I can understand why no buffet!!
Heaven
worldlyCanada on 30/09/2015 17:44
Despite its cheesy name, The Brilliant Resort and Spa is, in fact, "brilliant". It is a true sanctuary that includes various suites spread throughout a tranquil forest setting each with private hot tub and assorted amenities that truly create a spa-like feel. Access to the suites is via small walkways and a concierge pick-up service is available using golf carts. Breakfast was a bit disappointing and quite limited for the Western traveler but, overall, the full extent of the surrealistic experience overshadowed this minor short-coming. If you truly want to escapre somewhere, this is the place.
You get what you pay for...
Scott B on 03/10/2014 07:15
This hotel is by far the MOST expensive hotel I have ever stayed at. On top of that we stayed here for 3 days/2 nights during the National Holiday where prices went even higher.
Let me say that staying at this resort gives you exclusivity. A place away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Another thing it gives you is space. Space away from the crowds. There are only 35 rooms meaning that at any given one time there will only be 100 people at the hotel.
The Hot Springs Spa
The Hot Springs spa which is open to the public allows us free admission. Because this spa is so expensive (358¥ per person during the holiday) it's also exclusive as well. Whereas other Hot Springs around Bei Bei is packed with visitors from the city or other places around China. The people visiting the spa is NOT ALLOWED on Hotel Grounds where the river views are. This is what I loved the most as the Spa got real busy the day we checked out.
The Rooms
We got the double room which has a sitting area and a queen size bed. They had tea for us and our own personal spa. We had a walk in closet which is nice. But the privacy of the spa is the best with our views of the river partially covered by trees.
The Food
Western, Chinese, Chongqing, teppenyaki and Japanese food is served for lunch and dinner.
Free Breakfast serving Chinese, Japanese and Western food served as a buffet. The food here is expensive but safe. I didn't care for the buffet dinner which they had street food BBQ which was safe to eat. But the Teppenyaki was more of a gourmet version of it. Thumbs up for the Teppenyaki which not many Chinese people are because it's not enough food for them.
The Service
Let me say first is that they do not speak that much English at all. Thank god my wife is from CQ. But I did see some western visitors and they had their own translators probably provided from the hotel.
The service from the front desk to the cleaning ladies was IMPECCABLE. You ask for something and they respond...immediately like within 20 seconds.
They provided free transportation for us back to our family's place in Jiangbei district. As we were driving away I was sad for leaving the only resort that stole my heart.
Peace and tranquility
John P on 20/04/2014 11:11
Staying at the resort is such an unexpected surprise. Five star accommodation with both public and private spas. This was a 40 trip from the central railway and lies in a secluded valley on a tributary to the Yangtze River. Our modern two storied townhouse accommodation had all mod cons and the staff are fabulous. English may not be their strong suit but it is more than compensated by a willingness to help. Three restaurants serving a mixture of local Szechuan specialties, Japanese or western. Brilliant as the name says