A rare traditional countryside-style retreat in Taiwan’s mountains — “Olive Tree Homestay” in Nanzhuang, Miaoli

Reported by You T-Ru / Miaoli
 



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What kind of homestay embodies the dream experience for its owner? “Olive Tree Homestay” is certainly one of them. When reporters arrived at the homestay on an autumn evening, the cool air had already set in. Even before stepping inside, the warmth radiating from within could be felt from outdoors — a striking contrast against the crisp mountain autumn night that lent an almost poetic ambiance. Upon opening the door, one could instantly sense that deep mountain romance.

Full of handmade charm, “Olive Tree Homestay” adopts a traditional countryside aesthetic. The interior is filled with handcrafted décor and a collection of quirky items gathered by the owners. At its heart lies a central wooden house, with a café on the upper level and guest rooms below — a setup that gradually evolved over time. The name “Olive Tree” comes from the landlady’s fondness for olive trees. She originally planted dozens of them, and the name also resonated with the lyrics “for the olive tree of my dreams,” perfectly capturing her mood at the time.


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▲The homestay has cats — they’re incredibly sweet and adorable.

The owner’s eldest son, who is now in charge of the homestay, mentioned that after taking over, he added more handmade spaces both indoors and outdoors. “Because my younger brother loves woodworking and painting, the homestay continues to carry on that countryside vibe.” What look like delicate, girl-like creations actually hide the simplicity and meticulous craftsmanship of a young man.

There are about 10 rooms in the homestay. With whimsical, dreamlike names like “Blue Dream Child,” “Hoof Stone Realm,” and “Valley Travel Sentiment,” each room — situated on various levels — features simple, wooden, handcrafted designs. Though sizes and layouts vary slightly, every room shares one unchanging trait: upon opening the door, you’re greeted by the scent of the mountain forests, and when you open the window, you’re embraced by olive trees surrounding the homestay — an unforgettable experience that feels like living in a dream.


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Nanzhuang Olive Tree Outdoor Café Homestay
Address: No. 7-6, 42nd Fraction, 9th Neighborhood, Penglai Village, Nanzhuang Township, Miaoli County
Phone: 0919-822379
Business Hours: 09:00–22:00
Website: http://www.olive-tree.idv.tw/