Nestled in central Taiwan’s Nantou County, Sun Link Sea Forest Recreation Area, also known as Shanlinxi Forest Recreation Area (杉林溪森林生態渡假園區), is a captivating destination that enchants visitors with its mesmerizing natural beauty. Spanning approximately 40 hectares (99 acres) at an elevation of 1,600-1,800 meters (5,249-5,905 feet) above sea level, this fantastic haven boasts 10 scenic sites, 10 forest trails, 6 famous flowers, 3 waterfalls, and a rich tapestry of biodiversity.
Please watch the following video for more interesting images of Sun Link Sea Forest Recreation Area.
The history of the Sun Link Sea Forest Recreation Area
Originally called Xidi (溪底), Sun Link Sea was a resting place for loggers in the early days. In 1973, a businessman surnamed Liu began to lease 34 hectares (84 acres) of land in the area from the government to develop it as a forest recreation area and to build a 17-kilometer (10.6-mile) highway connecting Xitou and the Sun Link Sea Forest Recreation Area.
The Sun Link Sea Forest Recreation Area opened to the public in 1980, but was closed in 1999 because a super typhoon damaged the connecting highway. It was reopened on September 1, 2003, after four years of rehabilitation and restoration.
Songlong Rock (松瀧岩)
Songlong Rock is a 68-meter (223-feet) wide, 25-meter (82-feet) deep, and 30-meter (98-feet) high amazing cave adorned with hanging stalactites and swallow nests on the ceiling. Walking along the Tian Yen Trail below the cave is like passing through a water curtain, allowing visitors to experience the majestic Songlong Rock Waterfall up close. At the same time, the air is filled with refreshing mist.
Songlong Rock Waterfall (松瀧岩瀑布)
Adjacent to the magnificent Songlong Rock is the Songlong Rock Waterfall, hailed as the best scenery in the Sun Link Sea Forest Recreation Area and a mesmerizing testament to the area’s natural splendor. Gracefully cascading down rugged rock formations, the waterfall captivates visitors with its sheer beauty and soothing sounds. The crystalline waters, fed by pristine mountain streams, create an ethereal spectacle as they plunge into a tranquil pool below.
Ginkgo Lake
Ginkgo Lake (銀杏湖) is a newly created artificial landscape adorned with a picturesque blend of ginkgo trees on one side and a meticulously cultivated metasequoia forest (水杉森林) on the other.
As the time sequence enters late autumn, a breathtaking transformation unfolds within this tranquil oasis. The cold air ushers in a seasonal metamorphosis, rendering the ginkgo and metasequoia leaves a glorious golden yellow. Against this radiant backdrop, the lake mirrors the vibrant foliage, transforming Ginkgo Lake into a dazzling spectacle with an enchanting ambiance.
The Eyes of Heaven and Earth (天地眼)
Next to the waterfall is the Tian Yen Trail, which leads visitors to the Ancient Taiwan Red Cypress (千古紅檜) and the Eyes of Heaven and Earth (Tian Ti Yen 天地眼). This geological wonder, carved into the rock face, features two large holes (6 meters and 8 meters wide) resembling a pair of eyes. According to legend, the Eye of Heaven (Tian Yen 天眼) can see through one’s soul, while the Eye of Earth (Di Yen 地眼) can reveal it to the world.
Chinglong Waterfall (青龍瀑布)
Chinglong Waterfall is a magnificent natural wonder captivated with its majestic beauty and awe-inspiring presence. As the cascading water plunges down the rugged cliffs from a height of 116 meters (380 feet), a mesmerizing spray fills the air, creating a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere.
Tucked away in the lush embrace of the surrounding forest, this waterfall unveils itself in a breathtaking display. Visitors are treated to a feast for the senses as the roaring water creates a symphony with rustling leaves and chirping birds.
The Chinglong Waterfall is accessible via a well-maintained trail that winds through the picturesque forest, providing hikers with a stunning destination and an immersive journey through the area’s diverse ecosystems.
The Flower Center
Nestled within the verdant embrace of the Sun Link Sea Forest Recreation Area, the Flower Center is a horticultural haven that adds a burst of vibrant color to the rich tapestry of natural beauty. The Flower Center displays more than 30 species of flowers annually, each taking its turn to bloom and painting the landscape with hues that change with the seasons. Among them are peonies, leaf peonies, hydrangeas, tulips, fuchsia hybrids (金鐘花), and Taiwan cherry, known as the “Six Famous Flowers” of the recreation area.
The Flower Center provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to stroll among the blossoms, breathe in the fragrant air, and appreciate the intricate beauty of each bloom. It is a visual delight and a living testament to the area’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its diverse floral heritage.
Captivating hiking trails
The Sun Link Sea Forest Recreation Area is a natural wonder and a forest park with many charming forest trails. Upon entering these trails, visitors are surrounded by lush greenery, towering trees, and a serene atmosphere.
The well-maintained trails meander through the landscape, allowing visitors to explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna while breathing in the fresh, rejuvenating air. These trails are a must-visit destination to reconnect with nature and find solace in its captivating beauty.
