Too cold to sit outside? Here are 5 stunning lakeside cafes across Taiwan that you must visit

▲ Stunning lakeside cafes across Taiwan, pictured here is Venice Garden Cafe at Liyu Lake in Hualien. (Photo / Screenshot fromVenice Garden Cafe at Liyu Lake in Hualien’s official Facebook page)

By Peng Huaiyu / Comprehensive report

The blue sky, white clouds, and green mountains and trees reflected in the lake is a scene many dream of. In fact, you don’t need to go abroad—Taiwan has quite a few scenic lakeside cafes.ETtoday EBC has handpicked five of the best lakeside cafes in Taiwan. Sit at a lakeside table, gaze blankly at the water, sip a warm cup of coffee, and let all your worries drift away.

▲ Daxi Lakeside Cafe in Taoyuan. (Photo / Screenshot fromDaxi Lakeside Cafe’s official Facebook page)

1. Daxi Lakeside Cafe in Taoyuan
Daxi Lakeside Cafe doesn’t actually face a lake—it overlooks the “Shimen Reservoir.” Blessed with a prime location surrounded by mountains and water, the shimmering scenery changes with the seasons, offering a unique vibe at any time of day. Early birds can enjoy the serenity of dawn, while watching the sunset over the sparkling water at dusk—with the sun’s reflection gradually disappearing into the lake—is an unforgettable experience. Aside from the breathtaking nature, the cafe’s architecture is also a highlight. Built along the cliff and jutting out over the water, it offers a 270-degree panoramic view of the lake. The signature drink, “Second Wife Coffee,” is inspired by two identically sized mountain peaks opposite the reservoir—a fun touch.

Address: No. 88, Section 2, Huanhu Road, Fuxing Village, Daxi District, Taoyuan City

▲ Erquan Lakeside Cafe in Hsinchu. (Photo / Screenshot fromErquan Lakeside Cafe’s official Facebook page)

2. Erquan Lakeside Cafe & Homestay in Hsinchu
Erquan Lakeside is both a cafe and a homestay. Aside from overlooking the emerald waters and green hills of Emei Lake, its most distinctive feature is that it’s built on the water. According to the owner, the structure uses “shuitimo” (bare concrete) construction with no surface finishing, blending the building seamlessly with the lakeshore to present a philosophy of natural beauty—as if the cafe floats on Emei Lake. The first-floor floor-to-ceiling glass windows allow unlimited natural light, presenting a utopian view right before your eyes. A must-photo spot is the row of wooden benches in front of the cafe. With the pond, lakeside, and greenery, it’s easy to snap stunning photos. However, as the area consists of open walkways and stairs, extra caution is advised when bringing children.

Address: No. 21-6, Liao 12, Lin 13, Huguang Village, Hemei Township, Hsinchu County

▲ Venice Garden Cafe at Liyu Lake in Hualien. (Photo / Screenshot fromVenice Garden Cafe at Liyu Lake in Hualien’s official Facebook page)

3. Venice Garden Cafe at Liyu Lake in Hualien
Liyu Lake is a must-visit destination in Hualien. Venice Garden Cafe is located right next to the lake and also operates as a homestay. With mountains behind and the lake in front, the scenery feels like a fairy-tale paradise. The cafe embodies tranquility, leisure, and storytelling, hoping visitors can find inner peace. At dawn, when the morning mist lingers and sunlight dances on the lake, it’s the most magical time of day. Aside from the lake views, the floral garden thoughtfully arranged by the owner is also worth a visit.

Address: No. 27-2, Section 1, Chinan Road, Chinan Village, Shoufeng Township, Hualien County

▲ Daliford Pine Restaurant at Sun Moon Lake. (Photo / Screenshot fromDaliford’s official website)

4. Afternoon tea at Daliford Pine Restaurant at Sun Moon Lake
The ever-changing waters of Sun Moon Lake are a breathtaking sight, and the Cedar Restaurant is located on the first floor, right next to the lake. Here, you can experience the lake’s different moods from day to night without the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Stepping into the restaurant feels like time has stood still. Many assume dining at a hotel is unaffordably expensive, but that's not necessarily the case — a drink and dessert cost just NT$280 + 10%, and an English-style afternoon tea set is only NT$380 + 10%. Enjoy your tea with views of the lake and mountains in the Grand Formosa Taroko’s lounge, which offers a total of 210 indoor and outdoor seats. It’s recommended to make a reservation 1–2 weeks in advance.

Afternoon tea hours: 13:30–16:30
Address: No. 101, Zhongshan Road, Yuchi Township, Nantou County

▲ Miaoli Xiangtianhu Coffee Homestay. (Photo / from theXiangtianhu Coffee Homestay Facebook fan page)

5. Miaoli Xiangtianhu Coffee Homestay
Xiangtianhu in Nanzhuang, Miaoli, is the site of the Saisiyat Tribe’s Pas-ta’ai (Ritual of the Short People), exuding a primitive and mysterious atmosphere. Xiangtianhu Coffee is situated right in the middle of the lake — its white cottage exterior makes it very easy to spot. From the café windows, you can often see beautiful scenes of mountain mist shrouded in clouds, along with the lush green lake, as if you’ve stepped into a postcard. Whether watching the sunrise, admiring the sunset, or enjoying the rain, each offers a unique and picturesque moment. After sipping your coffee, you can also take a stroll along the wooden boardwalks nearby and enjoy the pleasures of a slow life.

Address: No. 26, Lane 16, Donghe Village, Nanzhuang Township, Miaoli County