Travel Guide to 167 Ranch Original Homestay, Hualien County

Introduction

Tucked into the rolling green pastures of Hualien’s countryside, 167牧場原味民宿 (167 Ranch Original Homestay) is the perfect escape for travelers tired of crowded Taroko Gorge trailheads and coastal tourist traps. This family-run homestay at No. 167, Ranch, Xikou Village delivers the authentic, slow-paced Hualien experience visitors crave, with sweeping mountain views and warm, personal hospitality that makes you feel like part of the family. Whether you’re a solo hiker seeking quiet, a couple on a romantic retreat, or a family looking to connect with nature, this homestay checks every box for a relaxing Taiwanese countryside getaway.

Hotel Overview

167 Ranch Original Homestay is built around the idea of simple, comfortable stays rooted in rural life. Every room is fitted with essential comforts to help you unwind after a day of exploring: private en-suite bathrooms with walk-in showers or deep soaking tubs, free toiletries, a hairdryer, and soft slippers. Most rooms open up to unobstructed mountain views, letting you wake up to misty golden valley vistas every morning. On-site facilities include free Wi-Fi throughout the property, flat-screen TVs, heating and air conditioning, and soundproofed rooms for a peaceful night’s sleep. The property is entirely non-smoking, with designated family rooms for larger groups. Guests can borrow free use of on-site bicycles to explore the surrounding country lanes, and free private parking is available with advance reservation. The multilingual staff (fluent in Mandarin and English) offer shuttle services to nearby attractions, making it easy to get around without a car. A small garden off the main building is perfect for morning coffee or stargazing after dark.

Nearby Local Attractions

Just 15 minutes’ drive from the homestay, Liyu Lake is Hualien’s largest inland lake, with a smooth 5-kilometer cycling loop around the water, shaded by willow trees and dotted with local street food stalls selling traditional millet mochi. It’s far less crowded than the coast, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. A 20-minute drive north brings you to the Zhuilu Old Trail entrance, one of Taroko Gorge’s most rewarding moderate hiking routes, with cliffside paths that open up to dramatic views of the Liwu River gorge below. The homestay staff can help arrange permits for day hikers. For a taste of local culture, Xikou Indigenous Market is just 10 minutes away by bike. Held every weekend, this small market sells handwoven Truku textiles, wild honey, and grilled wild boar sausage, giving visitors a chance to experience the local indigenous culture firsthand.

Travel Tips

Book your parking spot at least three days in advance, as spaces are limited on busy weekends. If you plan to hike Zhuilu Old Trail, ask the homestay staff to help secure your entry permit weeks ahead—permits for this popular trail sell out fast. While each room has an electric kettle for making tea, there are no full restaurant facilities on-site, so pack snacks or plan to eat out at nearby local family restaurants that serve wild mountain vegetables and fresh Hualien river fish. Bring layers: even in summer, mountain evenings cool off significantly, and the room heating works perfectly for chillier nights.