Travel Guide: Smile Orange Homestay (微笑橘子民宿), Yilan County

Introduction

Nestled in the quiet countryside of Dongshan Township, Yilan County, Smile Orange Homestay captures the laid-back, farm-to-table charm that makes this corner of Taiwan one of the country’s most beloved weekend getaways. Far from the crowded tourist hubs of Taipei, this family-run homestay offers cozy, clean accommodation paired with warm hospitality and easy access to Yilan’s top natural and cultural attractions. Whether you’re traveling with extended family, looking for a romantic rural retreat, or planning an active cycling getaway, Smile Orange Homestay is a perfect base for exploring all that Yilan has to offer.

Hotel Overview

Located at No. 73, Zhenzhu 1st Road, Dongshan Township, Smile Orange Homestay is built to feel like a welcoming home away from home. Key standout features include spacious family-friendly rooms, all non-smoking, fitted with air conditioning, hard wood flooring, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, and free WiFi across the entire property. Private bathrooms come stocked with free toiletries, a hair dryer, fresh towels, and slippers for guest comfort. The homestay’s biggest rave from past guests is its delicious breakfast, which can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own room. Outdoor space is a major highlight: guests can relax on private balconies, unwind in the sprawling garden, gather at the outdoor dining and lounge areas, or even fire up the shared barbecue grill for a casual evening meal. A fully equipped shared kitchen with all necessary cleaning supplies and an electric kettle is available for guest use, and free private on-site parking is available without a reservation. Additional amenities include bicycle rental, luggage storage, wake-up calls, expert local tourism advice, and paid airport shuttle and rental car services to simplify your trip.

Nearby Attractions

Three unmissable attractions are all within a 15-minute drive of the homestay:

• Dongshan River Water Park: Just 10 minutes away, this scenic riverside park is perfect for picnics, lazy strolls along the riverbank, and boat rides. It hosts Yilan’s famous annual International Children’s Folk Play Festival in summer, drawing visitors from across the country for its lively cultural performances and open green spaces.
• Jimmy’s Moon Bus: Located 12 minutes away in Luodong, this whimsical art installation created by renowned illustrator Jimmy Liao is one of Yilan’s most photographed spots. Set in an old train station, the immersive space brings Liao’s beloved story to life, making it a hit with families and art lovers alike.
• Shuanglian Pi Cycling Trail: A 15-minute drive from the homestay, this flat, scenic trail winds around a peaceful irrigation pond and through rice paddies. It’s ideal for casual rides, and the homestay’s bicycle rental makes it easy to start your adventure straight from your front door.

Travel Tips

Smile Orange Homestay is popular during weekends and Yilan’s peak cherry blossom and rice harvest seasons, so book your room 2–4 weeks in advance to secure your preferred date. If you don’t have your own car, book the homestay’s paid airport shuttle in advance for a hassle-free arrival from Taipei Songshan or Taoyuan International Airport. The homemade breakfast is not to be missed, so opt for the breakfast-inclusive rate when booking. Don’t forget to pack hiking shoes if you plan to take advantage of the paid hiking excursions the homestay can arrange in the nearby Snow Mountain foothills. Finally, ask the front desk for their local food recommendations—their tourism consultation service often leads guests to hidden family-run restaurants most tourists never find.