If you're seeking a memorable and refreshing escape, look no further than the picturesque destinations in Hangzhou's Lin'an and Fuyang districts as well as Tonglu county. These hidden gems, located near downtown Hangzhou, offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and thrilling water activities, ensuring a memorable summer vacation.

Lin'an: a tranquil retreat

Nestled in the outskirts of Hangzhou, Lin'an is easily accessible by subway, making it an ideal destination for a quick getaway.

You can explore the stunning Taihuyuan scenic area, which boasts a mesmerizing 5-kilometer stretch of winding paths, deep gorges, towering cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. With a remarkable forest coverage of 98 percent and high levels of negative oxygen ions in the air, this natural wonderland offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Take part in water hiking, a popular activity that allows you to cool off while enjoying the thrill of splashing through streams, engaging in water fights, and even trying your hand at stream fishing.

People go rafting. [Photo/WeChat account: fyrb63344556]

Fuyang: an aquatic playground

For those seeking an action-packed summer getaway, the newly-opened "Lake-Heart Island Wave-Making Park" in Fuyang district offers an abundance of water activities that will get your adrenaline pumping.

Situated in Xilian village, Xukou town, the park is surrounded by picturesque mountains. From rowing and paddle boarding to high-speed raft boats and motorboats, there's no shortage of excitement. The captivating Water Adventure Island is a sprawling 5,000-sq-m water park, featuring over 40 recreational options, including water trampolines, suspended ladders, and water slides.

The renowned dragon-scale dams are everywhere in rural Hangzhou. The one in Fuyang is unique, with distinct layers of cement and pebbles. The upper section boasts neatly arranged stone strips, allowing visitors to cross the river without getting their feet wet. The lower part features fish-scale-shaped water reservoirs, creating a lively atmosphere where visitors can wade through the water.

The dragon-scale dam in Fuyang district is unique in distinct layers of cement and pebbles. [Photo/WeChat account: fyrb63344556]

Tonglu: an adventure land

Tonglu is home to many rafting scenic spots.

Huxiaoxia Adventure Rafting, hailed as the "Most Thrilling Raft Spot in East China," is the first of its kind in Tonglu county. Treat yourself to an adventure as you navigate through a series of continuous sharp bends, an exhilarating opening that will leave you on the edge of your seat and encounter various challenging obstacles that create cascading waves.

Located in the Baijiang town of Tonglu county, the Tianzidi Ecological Scenic Tourism Area is a true gem. One of the highlights is the Sky Realm, also known as the Cliff Glass Overlook. Boasting the title of the "world's largest double-layer glass observation deck", this awe-inspiring structure resembles a magnificent, transparent crystal flower when viewed from above, providing a breathtaking panoramic view of the surroundings.