Travel Guide: Red Brick House Character Homestay (紅磚屋特色民宿), Miaoli County

Tucked into the misty mountain foothills of Nanzhuang, one of Miaoli’s most charming old-town destinations, Red Brick House Character Homestay delivers a cozy, rustic escape that feels worlds away from Taipei’s busy city streets. Built around a preserved century-old red brick structure, this family-run homestay blends traditional Hakka architectural warmth with modern comfort, making it the perfect base for exploring southern Miaoli’s natural scenery and cultural heritage.

Hotel Overview

Red Brick House is located at No. 32-3, Jinguang, Nanzhuang Village, a quiet residential lane just a 10-minute walk from Nanzhuang Old Street. The homestay offers a range of accommodation to suit solo travelers, couples, and family groups, including spacious non-smoking family rooms and soundproofed guest rooms. Every room comes with tea and coffee-making facilities, air conditioning, heating, and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Guests can choose between private en-suite bathrooms (equipped with free toiletries, a hairdryer, and a standing shower) or more budget-friendly options with shared clean facilities. On-site perks include free WiFi across the property, free private parking that requires no advance booking, 24-hour front desk service, and luggage storage. For leisurely days, the homestay features a sprawling garden with mountain and garden views, a sun terrace, outdoor dining area, picnic spot, and paid barbecue facilities. Shared common areas include a full kitchen with cooking tools and a fridge, a lounge with board games for family nights, and paid tourist consultation to help you plan your itinerary. The staff speak both English and Mandarin, so international travelers will feel right at home.

Local Attractions

Three nearby attractions should top every visitor’s itinerary. First, Nanzhuang Old Street is just 10 minutes on foot from the homestay: this preserved Hakka old town is lined with wooden shophouses selling traditional snacks like Hakka mugwort mochi and rice noodles, and hosts lively weekend cultural markets perfect for picking up handmade souvenirs. Second, Shitoushan (Lion Head Mountain) Scenic Area is a 15-minute drive away, offering gentle to moderate hiking trails through old-growth forest, that lead past historic temples and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Houlong River valley. Third, Miaoli Nanzhuang Coffee Plantation is 20 minutes by car, where you can tour organic coffee farms, sample freshly roasted local brews, and pick seasonal strawberries in winter.

Travel Tips

If you plan to hike Shitoushan on weekends, arrive before 9 a.m. to beat the crowds and secure parking near the trailhead. Book the homestay’s barbecue facilities at least three days in advance if you want to cook a meal with local produce. Pack layers even in summer – mountain temperatures drop noticeably in the evenings, and the homestay’s heating keeps rooms cozy but a light jacket is ideal for evening walks on the terrace. The homestay is completely non-smoking, so smokers will need to use the designated outdoor area. For travelers using public transport, take a bus from Miaoli Station to Nanzhuang Bus Station, and the homestay can arrange a 5-minute pick-up for a small fee.