Hualien County, Taiwan
Hualien County is one of Taiwan’s most beautiful areas, with tourists visiting daily to explore Taroko Gorge. While a visit to Taroko is a must, in the summer heat there is a real need to enjoy beautiful swimming holes and rivers in Hualien County.
Enter FeiCui Valley (翡翠谷), south of Hualien city, in the aboriginal Truku land. Crystal clear waters flow through massive marble boulders, past waterfalls, and into a perfect natural swimming hole. FeiCui stream offers gorgeous river tracing perfect for beginners, and one of the best natural swimming holes around. River tracing isn’t necessary, as there is a quick trail leading 90% of the way up to the swimming holes.
Starting in Hualien, on the East Coast of Taiwan, you will have to drive roughly 30 minutes south towards the Truku land. I prefer to take a scooter, because it’s such a pretty ride, and with a scooter you can take the back alleys through farmland. When you arrive at the bend you have to park and begin walking an old dirt road initially built for hydroelectric farming of the region. Be sure to bring your phone or a flashlight! The road leads to a man made rock tunnel, full of uneven footing!
The FeiCui stream starts with a man made waterfall, where you’ll find locals relaxing and barbecuing, however the real beauty is above, so continue up to a natural swimming hole and ultimately a gorgeous waterfall.
Once you reach the swimming hole FeiCui is known for, you can either chill here for the day or continue up to Zimu Waterfall (字母瀑布). If you choose to do so you can take the path on the left of the swimming hole, or you can go straight up the river, which is much longer and more difficult.
FeiCui Valley (翡翠谷) is a stunning location and one of my favorite places in Taiwan to enjoy a hot summer day. If you’re in the Hualien area and need a break, I highly recommend checking it out!
