Northern Taiwan is an area of immense beauty, where both Mother Nature and mankind have been to work and created a playground of the senses. This afternoon tour takes in three of the best attractions: the stunning rock formations of Nanya, the former gold rush village of Jiufen and the dramatic Bitou Cape Park.
Head for the jagged rock formations and eroded coral shoreline of Nanya are one of Taiwan’s most popular attractions. The entire coastline is a veritable sculpture garden that illustrates, in stone, the incomparable artistry of wind and wave action. Furthermore, the oxidation of iron ore within the layers of the stone has given it a beautiful striped pattern.
Continue to Jiufen, which when gold was struck in 1890 was an isolated hamlet of nine families. Overnight, swathes of prospectors, adventurers and ne’er-do-wells transformed the town into a bustling settlement. Eventually, the gold ran out but the rush left a legacy from which the town still thrives. Wander through the hilly alleys of Japanese colonial architecture, admire the prosperous old streets, buildings and tea houses, which evoke this golden past. Savour a tea or try the local speciality yam dish.
At Bitou Cape Park admire the sea-eroded the mushroom-shaped rocks, honeycomb rock, tofu rock and marine fossils, all of which combine to create a geological wonderland. A pathway leads on to the cape proper, giving access to splendid views of sea and sky, and to the lighthouse.
Meeting point: Pick-up from central Taipei hotels.
Start time:1.30pm.
End time: 5.30pm.
Languages:English.