Travel Guide to Sankeng Daddy Homestay (三坑老爹), Taoyuan City

Introduction

Nestled in the quiet, lush hills of Longtan District in Taoyuan, Sankeng Daddy is a cozy family-run homestay that blends warm Taiwanese hospitality with easy access to some of northern Taiwan’s most underrated natural and cultural attractions. Far from the crowded tourist hubs of Taipei, this laid-back retreat is perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers looking to slow down, explore local culture, and soak up mountain scenery. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a food lover, or someone craving a weekend escape from city life, Sankeng Daddy delivers a comfortable, authentic Taiwanese homestay experience.

Hotel Overview

Located at No. 18, Alley 18, Lane 51, Yongchang Road, Longtan District, Sankeng Daddy offers a range of well-appointed accommodations suited for all group sizes. All rooms are non-smoking, soundproofed, and fitted with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, a TV with cable channels, and en-suite bathrooms stocked with free toiletries, a hairdryer, towels, and slippers. Family rooms are available for larger groups, and every room opens out to a private balcony or access to a shared sun terrace with outdoor furniture, perfect for sipping morning coffee while overlooking rolling green hills.

On-site amenities include free public parking nearby, daily cleaning service, a shared lounge and recreation room stocked with board games and puzzles, and secure lockers for guest belongings. For active travelers, the homestay organizes guided local culture walks, hiking tours, and rents out bicycles for exploring the surrounding countryside. Safety features include 24/7 CCTV in public areas, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and in-room safes, giving guests peace of mind during their stay. Note that the property only speaks Chinese, and upper floors are accessible only by stairs.

Local Attractions

Three standout attractions are just a short drive or bike ride from the homestay:

• Longtan Lake: A 15-minute drive away, this scenic crescent-shaped lake is surrounded by lush parkland and a picturesque waterfront promenade. Visit the nearby Longtan Nantian Temple perched on a hillside overlooking the water, then sample local street food at the weekend night market for authentic Hakka and Taiwanese snacks.
• Sankeng Old Trail: This gentle 3-kilometer historic hiking trail starts just 10 minutes from the homestay, winding through dense subtropical forest and past abandoned coal mine relics, with panoramic views of the Taoyuan basin at the summit. The homestay’s organized guided walks share fascinating insights into the area’s coal-mining history.
• Shimen Reservoir: One of northern Taiwan’s most popular outdoor destinations, this vast reservoir is 20 minutes away by car. Visitors can cycle the 20-kilometer perimeter road, hike to the viewing pavilion for postcard-perfect reservoir views, and feast on freshly caught reservoir fish at the local riverside restaurants.

Travel Tips

If you’re traveling without a car, book a taxi from Taoyuan High Speed Rail Station (a 25-minute ride) to reach the homestay, or rent a scooter in Taoyuan City for maximum flexibility. Pack comfortable walking shoes for hiking and bring layers, as the hilltop location is often a few degrees cooler than central Taoyuan. The homestay does not serve on-site breakfast, but there are several local Hakka breakfast shops within a 5-minute drive serving iconic dishes like Hakka rice cakes and preserved vegetable congee. Finally, book well in advance during weekends and autumn foliage season (late November to early December), when demand for accommodations in Longtan is highest.