Lingshan Mountain: The highest of Beijing's heights

A variety of wild flowers brave the mountain climate at Lingshan.[Photo/CRIENGLISH.com]

Horticulturalists are sure to enjoy the broad variety of mountain plants and flowers on site. Rhododendron, birch, lilac and more defiantly brave the mountain climate, with different species appearing at different altitudes.

Many horses and cows roam the hillsides freely. Even horses who work the dayshift, are set free in the evenings. Sheep have also apparently set up shop in this hillside neighbourhood.

Aerial views of animals and plants may be nice from above, but those who ride the chairlift may be disappointed to realize that its final drop off point remains a considerable distance from the final destination. Even horses do not complete the full journey. No, the final stretch to Lingshan's 2,300 metre summit must be conquered on foot.