Silks Place Taroko

The welcoming staff, comfortable rooms, and rooftop pool view were the best parts for me. Still, the place felt oddly dated, like it had barely changed since the 70s, and the area around it looked neglected, with rubbish near the bottom of the bridge. Food and drinks were the bigger frustration. For lunch, there’s one hotel restaurant offering what it calls a “light” meal, or room service. Dinner is either an early, crowded buffet that I didn’t enjoy or room service. The buffet only runs from 6-8pm, which doesn’t suit anyone who eats later. I couldn’t order coffee or drinks by the pool before 15:00, and after that I had to track down someone because the “bar” wasn’t staffed. Maybe I was there in a quiet tourist period, but for a place presenting itself as five star, the limited access to food and drinks, even coffee outside the room, felt strange. There’s no nearby shop for snacks either, only the hotel store selling branded items. My gorge view was also partly blocked by trees, despite being charged for that view. I wouldn’t suggest it to solo travellers, people who want poolside drinks during the day, or anyone who prefers dinner after 8pm. If those things aren’t concerns, the rooms are very comfortable, the staff are kind and welcoming, and the scenery is lovely.

We only had two nights at Silks Place Taroko, and I wish we’d booked more. The shuttle to and from Hualien was arranged smoothly, so the trip was stress-free from the start. We loved the activities and hikes, and the social hour was a nice chance to relax and chat. After time in Taroko Gorge, the pool and hot tubs were just what we wanted. Breakfast and dinner were both delicious, with plenty of choices. The team made the stay feel special, from the warm welcome to the attentive service throughout. Robin, Carol, Sue, and Peggy were especially kind. Everyone we met was smiling and genuinely welcoming. We’ll definitely return.

I really loved the setting on the river and gorge in Tokoro National Park. The drive through the gorge was incredible too. We took the train to Hualien, then the hotel’s reasonably priced mini van, booked on its website, picked us and other guests up at the station. There’s lots to do at the hotel: a gym, morning yoga, a spa where I had a wonderfully relaxing facial, an indoor lap pool, a big kids’ play area, a snooker room, and daily activities you can sign up for. The outdoor pool and three jacuzzis look over the gorge and stay open at night. Breakfast and dinner had a huge amount of Western and Asian food to choose from. Nearly all the staff were very friendly, though one pool worker wasn’t. Many park hiking tracks remain closed after the 2024 earthquake and landslides, but there are still good walks, and the gorge is amazing. There’s also a beautiful temple across the river. My only reason for not giving five stars is the two birds kept in tiny cages in reception. That seems cruel and unnecessary amid all this wild nature. I hope Silk's Place moves them to a much larger aviary if they can’t safely be released.

Robin’s local knowledge made my visit much better. He was helpful with general information and knew the trails and best places to see. The staff overall were approachable, service minded, and well trained. The facilities and my room were spacious and well cared for, and as a vegetarian I found a good range of tasty food. The natural setting around the hotel is amazing.