Kenting to Hualien - Taiwan's south west coast

Taiwan's south west coast features high cliffs and scenic views, but a little hard to appreciate fully in the rain. Although the view below should give an impression. Would be nicer still with a blue sky backdrop than a grey one.

Despite the rain we made a stop at a park which allowed one access to the coast and some interesting rock formations going into the sea, being the product of old volcanic activity.

A brief and somewhat offbeat diversion was to see this water channel. which appears to be a display of water running uphill. It is an optical illusion however. And really not one that can be captured in a photo.

 However, the unexpected highlight of the day was a place called Sanxiantai.

Here was nature reserve in the form of an island to be reached only by a rather bizarre bridge.

 As you can see, very much a pedestrian bridge only.

Onto the island reserve there is a nice boardwalk that you can walk around easily. But beyond it (which Thibault hadn't realised on his previous visit), there is a rather more difficult trail up to the top of the peak. It is this that was the most worthwhile part, if somewhat more demanding.

A slight diversion takes one into a cave.

This bit of volcanic rock scoured by the sea would make an excellent science-fiction setting

 As I say, a more demanding trek. After clambering over rocks by the sea there was steep climb to look forward to.

But one was rewarded with great views (and yes by now it had stopped raining).

Even Thibault felt this was worth photographing.

But then you had to make the return journey. A pretty steep descent.

I think this is particularly nice vista, the rugged shoreline, sea and all framed by angry grey clouds in the distance.

From there we headed on to Hualien, and having arrived fairly late decided to head on promptly to night market for food from the numerous stalls.

Unlike the rest of our stay where we had used large hotels, here we chose a highly rated B&B in a residential area. The quaintly named Jasmine Orange was triumph. We got all the personal attention you might want from a place that had only a handful of rooms, but to my pleasant surprise you lost none of the equipment that you might expect in a larger establishment. The rooms were very well appointed around a pleasant courtyard. Only downside was that outside the rooms, there lurked quite vicious mosquitoes. I am still scratching the bites!