Travel Guide to Gengmengyuan Holiday Homestay, Hualien County

Nestled in Hualien’s lush, mountain-fringed eastern countryside, Gengmengyuan Holiday Homestay (耕夢園渡假民宿) is a laid-back retreat for travelers tired of crowded coastal hotspots. Tucked away at No. 233, Xikou Road, Xikou Village, this family-run homestay trades the buzz of Hualien City for quiet access to some of the county’s most underrated natural scenery, making it ideal for romantic getaways, family trips, and slow travel escapes alike.

Hotel Overview

Designed to let guests unwind amid nature, Gengmengyuan checks every box for a comfortable rural stay. All rooms feature en-suite private bathrooms, air conditioning, heating, and dedicated non-smoking floors, with spacious family rooms available for groups. Free Wi-Fi covers the entire property, and free public street parking is available nearby without advance reservation. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the sprawling garden, sun terrace, picnic area, and barbecue facilities (the terrace has a small extra fee for private events). On-site amenities include a seasonal outdoor open-air pool open to all ages, a wellness area with a steam room, and leisure facilities including a children’s outdoor play area, badminton equipment, and a shared lounge for lazy afternoons. The homestay also offers helpful concierge services, local tour advice, and shuttle transfers to nearby attractions for added convenience. While only Chinese is spoken by staff, the warm, hospitable service makes communication straightforward for most travelers.

Local Attractions

Three standout nearby spots make this homestay an unbeatable base. First, the iconic Taroko Gorge is just a 25-minute drive north: hike the easy, family-friendly Swallow Grotto trail to see marble cliffs carved by the Liwu River, or tackle the more challenging Zhuilu Old Trail for panoramic gorge views. Second, Qixingtan Beach, one of Hualien’s most stunning stretches of coastline, is 40 minutes away: its pebbly shores and dramatic Pacific views are perfect for sunrise walks and beach picnics. Third, the less crowded Liyu Lake (Carp Lake) is just 15 minutes from the homestay: rent a bike to cycle the 5km shoreline trail, go stand-up paddleboarding, or stop for fresh grilled tilapia at a waterfront eatery.

Travel Tips

Book your stay in advance during peak summer season (June to August), when the seasonal pool and barbecue areas are in high demand. If you plan to hike Taroko Gorge, apply for a permit for the Zhuilu Old Trail at least one week in advance through the Taroko National Park website. Since the homestay is in a rural area, stock up on snacks and supplies in nearby Guangfu Township before checking in, and book a rental car or arrange the homestay’s paid shuttle service in advance for getting around. For the best weather, visit between October and April, when temperatures are cool and rainfall is low, perfect for outdoor exploring.