Plan a dreamy getaway with "Galar Lake" during the long holiday!

Tripbaa Fun Bar - Asia’s Free Travel Expert

Crossing the new year and welcoming the first light of dawn are both significant ways to start the year. This time we followed a mountain-climbing expert into Galar Lake — a mysterious alpine lake tucked away in Yilan — to wait for the morning's first rays of sunlight piercing through the surrounding mist as they swept across the mountaintops. That hazy beam of sunlight shining on the surface of the lake must be what the phrase “pearls scattered by a fairy” was meant to convey!

Legend has it that in ancient times, there was a beautiful fairy who, while getting ready, accidentally dropped and shattered her mirror. The dazzling diamond-like fragments rained down like drops from the sky, scattering across the Galar Mountain area and forming a multitude of lakes as beautiful as a dreamland. Hence, Galar Lake is called the“Pearls Scattered by a Fairy”.

2019 New Year's Dawn Secret Spot - Galar Lake Hiking & Camping. (Photo / Tripbaa Fun Bar - Asia’s Free Travel Expert)

Galar Lake is located in Datong Township, Yilan County, at the junction of the Central Mountain Range where Nanhu Mountain and Sanxing Mountain meet. Named after nearby Galar Mountain, the lake stretches from north to south at an elevation of 2,242 meters. It is part of a lake cluster, which includes not only Galar Lake but also Retreat Pool, Heroic Pool, and Big Egg Pool — a total of 18 high-altitude lakes.

The starting point of the trail is a striking red iron gate. From here, you’ll rely solely on your own two feet to take each step forward. This spot is called the Four Seasons Trailhead. The winding Four Seasons Forest Road is in fairly good condition, but don’t let that make you complacent — this path will still challenge your stamina, especially the downhill sections, which really test the health of your knees.

2019 New Year's Dawn Secret Spot - Galar Lake Hiking & Camping. (Photo / Tripbaa Fun Bar - Asia’s Free Travel Expert)

After a challenging trek, you’ll finally reach the Four Seasons Ranger Station, the major rest stop of the day — and more importantly, lunchtime. It’s also a common resting spot for many hikers heading to Galar Lake. Once fed and watered, it’s time to move on. As we continue walking, we arrive at the next destination: the Giant Tree Trailhead. This giant tree narrowly escaped being logged and quietly stands guard here, uncounted years later, as you slowly breathe in the aroma of the surrounding Hinoki cypress trees.

Stepping out of the forest path, you’re greeted by a stunning sight: under the blue sky stands a vast expanse of charred, blackened trees. Seeing them having survived logging only to be scarred by fire is truly heartbreaking. It turns out that a major wildfire broke out here many years ago, serving as a solemn reminder to all visitors to protect and respect the mountains and forests.

2019 New Year's Dawn Secret Spot - Galar Lake Hiking & Camping. (Photo / Tripbaa Fun Bar - Asia’s Free Travel Expert)

After half a day of strenuous hiking, the most beautiful destination of the day finally comes into view — at the end of the path lies the long-awaited Galar Lake.

2019 New Year's Dawn Secret Spot - Galar Lake Hiking & Camping. (Photo / Tripbaa Fun Bar - Asia’s Free Travel Expert)

The crystal-clear Galar Lake reflects the blue sky like a mirror. Seeing this scene makes every bit of the day’s effort worthwhile. Before sunset, take a quiet stroll around the little corners near Galar Lake — the various sized lakes are scattered across the land like pearls.

2019 New Year's Dawn Secret Spot - Galar Lake Hiking & Camping. (Photo / Tripbaa Fun Bar - Asia’s Free Travel Expert)

Finally, night falls. While the outside world is probably buzzing with festive New Year’s Eve energy, by Galar Lake there is only the tranquil night adorned with stars. All you hear are the sounds of nature. We bid farewell to the year that’s coming to an end with a different kind of vibrancy — one that belongs to nature. But the most beautiful moment is yet to come tomorrow.

2019 New Year's Dawn Secret Spot - Galar Lake Hiking & Camping. (Photo / Tripbaa Fun Bar - Asia’s Free Travel Expert)

At dawn, the scenery before you is intoxicating. A thick white mist envelops Galar Lake, making you feel as if you’re walking in a dream. Gazing at this beautiful and slightly mysterious lake, you realize that most people have probably already greeted the dawn. But we continue to wait quietly for the sun to rise over the mountains and shine into Galar Lake.

Then, the moment arrives — the sunlight breaks through, cutting straight through the mist and dissipating the haze over Galar Lake. The emotion of that instant is truly beyond words. While everyone else is exchanging “Happy New Year” messages amid the hustle and bustle, we silently whisper “Happy New Year” to this beautiful Galar Lake with our peaceful hearts. Thank you for the emotions you’ve brought us.

Fanfan Hot Springs is located in Yingshi Village, Datong Township, Yilan County, nestled deep in the mountains and retaining much of its pristine alpine character. While soaking in the hot springs, you can enjoy the mountain and water scenery and listen to the chirping of insects and birds. The natural hot spring water emerges from faulted rock walls and is a sodium bicarbonate spring. The water is colorless and odorless, with a temperature of about 60°C. After mixing with the cool stream water, the temperature becomes diluted — just right for a relaxing soak. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the fun of soaking in a misty, wild hot spring.

After experiencing the tough but beautiful hike to Galar Lake — having “endured hardship and strengthened the body” — you might gain a deeper appreciation for the healing and comfort of wild hot springs. Moreover, since Fanfan Hot Springs is an alkaline carbonated spring, it doesn’t have a strong sulfur smell. If you’re looking to soak in a hot spring on a winter weekend, why not venture deep into the mountain wilderness and experience the joy of a wild hot spring?

[Authorized Repost from Tripbaa Fun Bar] Original article: [2019 New Year's Dawn Secret Spot 3.0 - Galar Lake – Dreamy Lake Reflecting the Sunrise]

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