Light Travel | Stand Up Paddleboard at Sun Moon Lake and Embrace the Beautiful Scenery of Lakes and Mountains
#Nantou #SunMoonLake #SunMoonLakeStandUpPaddleboarding #SupStandUpPaddleboarding #YuchiXiang The most anticipated part of this two-day, one-night trip to Sun Moon Lake was the stand-up paddling. Even before we set off, I'd imagined myself standing on the lake, surrounded by mountains and the clear water beneath my feet. The tranquility and freedom were truly captivating.
We departed Taoyuan early in the morning on the first day, and the drive took about three hours. The atmosphere was relaxed as we chatted about our plans. We arrived at Sun Moon Lake around noon, and first had lunch at a small restaurant near Shuishe Pier. The simple mountain cuisine was surprisingly delicious. In the afternoon, we rented bicycles and cycled around the lake. The gentle breeze blew off the surface, and as we cycled, we stopped to take photos, feeling like we were transported to a postcard scene. That night, we stayed at a lakeside B&B with a view of the lake from our windows. After dinner, we walked to Yidashao Pier, where the lights reflected on the lake, creating a quiet yet romantic atmosphere.
The next morning, we woke up before dawn because the stand-up paddling session was scheduled for the early morning. When I stepped onto the SUP board, I was initially nervous, afraid of losing my balance and falling into the water. But as my instructor guided me, I gradually mastered the rhythm of paddling, and my body gradually relaxed. The lake glowed golden in the morning light. All around was so quiet that only the rustle of the oars could be heard, with the occasional fish leaping out of the water or the distant chirping of birds. That feeling of "oneness with nature" is truly indescribable.
Paddling to the center of the lake, I looked back toward the shore. Sun Moon Lake resembled a vast landscape painting. Standing on the water, I truly experienced its vastness and tranquility. This short experience of just over an hour was incredibly rewarding, and I finally understood why so many people love SUP.
After finishing, I returned to my B&B to freshen up and headed nearby for a bowl of millet porridge and tea eggs—simple yet deeply local. With a touch of reluctance, I set off on my return journey. While this two-day, one-night trip was brief, the experience of SUP has left a special mark on Sun Moon Lake.
Next time I have a chance, I will definitely come again, maybe in a different season, or challenge a longer paddling route, and continue to find that rare freedom on the lake.