Last week I took a vacation in the scenic, coastal city of Dalian in northeastern China. I relaxed and unwound at the Castle Hotel. I had made the correct choice.
The Scene
The beautiful city of Dalian is situated at the tip of China’s Liaodong Peninsula. It is a trading and financial centre in northeastern Asia and has gained the reputation as the Hong Kong of Northern China. With its spectacular scenery and moderate climate, Dalian is also known as ‘The Romance City’ and among the most livable cities in China.
The Location
Sitting within the Luxury Collection portfolio of Marriott International, Castle Hotel Dalian where I stayed last week is a palatial Bavarian-style castle majestically perched on a lush, green hillside overlooking Xinghai Bay. It offers breathtaking views of the shimmering sea and the city skyline.
The commanding position offers a sense of serenity and exclusivity, while still being conveniently located near the heart of Dalian.
The Castle Hotel is 30 minute drive from Dalian Zhoushuizi International Airport; 20 minutes from Dalian Train Station; and 50 minutes from Dalian North Train Station.
Just a short distance away is the famous Xinghai Square — the largest city square in Asia. It offers a vibrant hub of cultural events, festivals, and leisurely strolls. The coastal promenade nearby provides picturesque views of the bay, is perfect for a relaxing walk. You will see countless seagulls glide effortlessly above the shoreline. What a sight!
This Marriott Bonvoy hotel is also well-connected to key attractions, including the Lotus Mountain, the Dalian Modern Museum, the Sun Asia Ocean World, and the Dalian Forest Zoo. With its prime location, guests can easily explore both the natural beauty and urban charm of Dalian, while retreating to the luxurious tranquility of the Castle Hotel at the end of the day.
Hotel Lobby
Upon arriving at the grand hotel, I was immediately greeted with warm, genuine smiles from the attentive doormen.
A very grand hotel lobby exudes opulence and sophistication, with soaring ceilings adorned with intricate chandeliers that cast a warm, golden glow. Luxurious seating areas, with plush velvet armchairs and elegant sofas, are arranged in clusters to create intimate conversation spaces. Gilded accents and ornate furnishings evoke timeless elegance, while the magnificent, glass ceiling atop allows natural light to flood the space during the day.
Rooms & Suites
The hotel features 292 striking guestrooms and 67 exclusive residences showcasing modern luxury with a sophisticated blend of contemporary interiors. For a truly unique stay, the Castle Hotel’s crown jewel, the presidential suite is an open-plan layout of over 600 square meters, furnished with exquisite furniture and beautiful details.
Dining
For epicureans, the resort offers an inviting exploration of diverse culinary specialties across its four restaurants and lounge and bar, providing unparalleled quality service, authentic, creative and “sea-to-table” cuisines.
Royal Cellar Restaurant and Bar +86 18525369636
Boasting an on-site micro-brewery, Royal Cellar unites classically inspired contemporary décor and an ocean-view terrace with heritage beer, hearty cuisine and live music. It is a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
Zhenbao Chinese Restaurant +86 411 82280188
Zhenbao serves a culinary trove of Dalian’s fresh-caught seafood and regional specialties, all served in a lavish setting of 15 private rooms and main dining area.
Collections Signature Restaurant +86 411 82280155
At Collection, the all-day dining restaurant, guests can enjoy an array of delectable delicacies for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Collections Signature Restaurant serves an a la carte dining buffet, which features an assortment of international dishes. There you will enjoy a vibrant open kitchen with live cooking stations, an inviting outdoor terrace and dazzling ocean views of the Yellow Sea, China.
Lobby Lounge +86 411 82280156
Savour tasty food and drinks while enjoying classical music in the elegant and sophisticated Lobby Lounge. This bar and restaurant offers a decadent cocktail menu inspired by local spirits, providing a glamorous backdrop for a refined aperitif or an indulgent nightcap, paired with small bites.
SPA & Wellness
Guests can stay active with an invigorating workout in the 24/7 Fitness Centre, or enjoy the water in the indoor swimming pool which opens 06:00 – 22:00.
For kids there is the Castle Land which opens 10:00-20:00. The on-site children amusement park is perfect for families with children of different ages.
For those seeking a unique escape, go to the Cobase Spa which opens 10:00-23:00 +86 411-8250 0190
Cobase SPA is an aromatic sanctuary in Dalian, offering private rooms, where guests can experience a menu of therapeutic facilities and custom treatments tailored to everyone’s personal specifications. The addition of a beauty salon, a juice bar, and a mahjong room to the place is the icing on the cake.
Events
With its grand ballrooms and picturesque surroundings, Castle Hotel is a popular choice for weddings, banquets, and corporate and private events.
The dedicated Chengbao Grand Ballroom with 1400sqm event space can accommodate up to a thousand guests and more; then there are the Emperor Ballroom, the Empress Ballroom, and the even more function rooms. All are equipped with state-of-the-art audio visual technology.
The Esplanade on hotel 5/F with an open space of 4000sqm is a gem. It is ideal for grand weddings, welcoming cocktail parties and important business meetings.
Bottom Line
While the hilltop location provides stunning views, the hotel may be inconvenient for some guests due to limited nearby public transportation. Also, the hotel is a popular choice for weddings and events, which can lead to crowded public areas particularly on weekends. And, the hotel’s luxurious setting comes with a high price tag.
Nonetheless, Castle Hotel Dalian is an architectural grandeur. It is designed to resemble a European castle, satisfying travellers’ fairy-tale dreams. And the hotel is known for its attentive and personalised service, with staff going above and beyond to cater to guests’ needs and ensure a memorable stay. Last but not least, their fine dining restaurants serve a range of international and local cuisines. The quality of food and service is just top-notch.
The Castle Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Dalian
+86 411 86560000
No. 600 Binhai West Road, Shahekou District, Dalian, Liaoning, China, 116023
