Simatai

Simatai

In Miyun country near the town of Gubeikou, the stirring remains at Simatai make for a more exhilarating Great Wall experience. Built during the reign of Ming dynasty emperor Hongwu, the 19km undulating stretch is punctuated with watchtowers, steep plunges and scrambling ascents.

It's not for the faint-hearted: this rough section of the wall is very steep. A few slopes have a 70-degree incline and you need both hands free, so bring a day-pack to hold your camera and other essentials.