Written by Monocle Editorial Team
At dawn, sunlight gently streams through the windows, awakening guests with a soft touch. Contentedly stretching and greeting the morning sun, they prepare for the next leg of their journey. This is a scene at the Venice in the Mountains homestay—a cozy place surrounded by fireflies and blooming tung flowers. It has also served as a filming location for idol dramas such as *Meteor Garden* and *Smiling Pasta*, boasting incredibly beautiful scenery.
The glass house, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides, is the most sought-after room type. (Image provided by Monocle Editorial Team)
In Shuangxi Township, nestled within lush greenery, stands a European-style cottage that embodies low-carbon living, environmental friendliness, and ecological preservation, filling the space with serene greenery. Easily accessible by a regular train, this homestay is also a filming location for idol dramas. Tucked away in a remote mountain town near the northeast coast, it retains pristine natural beauty. In May, there’s a “snowfall” of tung blossoms, summer nights sparkle with fireflies, and clean streams and fresh air are just some of the homestay’s unique charms.
The European-style villa homestay is an oasis hidden in the mountains. (Image provided by Monocle Editorial Team)
The homestay mainly features four beautifully designed rooms, all planned and built in a European villa style. Both the lobby and guest rooms have glass walls or large windows, allowing travelers to take in the stunning views even without stepping outside. Among them, the most popular is the glass house enclosed by floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides. Surrounded by greenery, this uniquely transparent room offers an intimate connection with nature, making guests feel as if they’re staying right in the middle of a forest. In addition to being embraced by lush woods, you can also admire the moon and stars at night, and in summer, fireflies twinkle outside the windows, adding a touch of romance to your vacation. If the glass house is fully booked, you can also try the “Big Princess Room,” where Show Lo’s character stayed in *Smiling Pasta*, or the “Little Princess Room,” where Barbie Hsu stayed in *Tokyo Juliet*. All rooms feature large windows to fulfill your desire for green scenery, leaving a romantic mark on your journey.
Through the large windows in the lobby, you can enjoy breathtaking views. (Image provided by Monocle Editorial Team)
Due to the homestay’s proximity to a small stream, during the firefly season in April and May, the wooden terrace in the yard offers a breathtaking view of sparkling fireflies. To avoid disturbing the fireflies, the owner lowers the iron shutters on the living room windows to prevent light pollution. At night, specially designed hidden lighting inside creates a magical ambiance with shifting lights, resembling a galaxy-like transformation, giving guests unforgettable travel memories.
【Info】
Address: No. 7-1, Xingji East Street, Shuangxi District, New Taipei City
Phone: 02-2493-0088
Website: www.happy88.com.tw
● Further Reading:
【Stay in a Homestay on Tuesdays】Jinguashi Slowly, the Joy of Leisurely Living
www.mook.com.tw/article.php?op=articleinfo&articleid=9532
The small and charming homestay is very popular with travelers. (Image provided by Monocle Editorial Team)