Some months ago, I saw a thread that had recommendations on what part(s) of the Great Wall to visit; evidently it has been purged or is somewhere else, but I can't find it any more. More recently, moondog had some recommendations on another thread here.

My problem is this: I am not fit or courageous enough to visit a really challenging, dangerous part of the Wall -- steep slopes and uneven footing are not my thing! On the other hand, the most visited, most easily accessible parts of the Wall, such as Badaling and Mutianyu, are heavily restored, crowded, and tacky with tourist schlock -- or so I understand from reading my Lonely Planet guidebooks and other sources.

So, is there a compromise? I.e., an easily accessible portion of the Wall that is relatively "wild" and not over-restored?

I'm leaving for China in two weeks. Not my first visit (have been to Guangzhou before), but my first pleasure trip and first opportunity to see the Great Wall.

Thanks for any help.


Kathy