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Friday, July 21, 2017

Taiwan 8D7N Free & Easy Tour - Gaomei Wetlands (高美湿地)

When I was planning the itinerary for our trip to Taiwan, Gaomei Wetlands (高美湿地) was top on my list. It was a little off from the central area in Taichung and not as accessible or near to public transportation. Qingshui district is probably the nearest for tourists to get to Gaomei. Nevertheless, we were determined and arranged for transportation to bring us to our destination.

Gaomei Wetlands is located on the south of the mouth of Dajia River and more than a thousand hectares in size. Its land has a special mix of both sand and soil textures providing complicated yet rich wetland ecology. This is the perfect place to observe crabs, mud-skippers, fishes and migratory birds.

Apart from its biological diversity, the enchanting landscape is what makes Gaomei Wetlands popular among locals, tourists and photographers.  The rows of turbo windmills with the setting sun as the backdrop is simply romantic and mesmerizing. As our vehicle drove past the windmills, I cannot help myself to exclaim with joy and excitement!


As we took a longer time visiting the other places of interests, and then got caught in the traffic, we arrived at Gaomei Wetlands a little later than expected (~4.40pm) and the sun was almost setting!

Tips: Sunset in Taiwan has different timings than in Singapore so you do have to make sure you plan your itinerary well to arrive before the sunset and when the tide is the lowest if you wish to walk on the wetlands.

Beautiful patches of sedges growing on the wetlands. 

The wooden boardwalk stretching 800m into the wetlands was recently constructed to preserve the delicate environment of the sedge grassland. During high tides, you can walk out towards the sea. At low tides, take a walk down to the wetlands to catch crabs, mudskippers and even shellfish!



It was pretty crowded when we arrived. Make sure you don't lose sight of your children especially the younger ones. Thankfully the weather was rather cooling in the November month and we got to enjoy the evening breeze and catch the sunset!


Many stopped to take pictures of the setting sun.


Windmills, wetlands and the sunset. :)

If the tide is low, you can take off your footwear and soak your feet into the waters. Many left their footwear on the boardwalk. If you are not afraid of losing it, you can do the same. We follow suit and left our sandals among the multiple pairs on the platform praying hard that they are still there upon our return. Thankfully we found our pairs after our walk.

Tips: If you are planning to visit Gaomei Wetlands on a low tide, suggest that you wear light, avoid long dress, pants or jeans. Wear slippers or sandals instead of sports shoes. You can bring along a plastic bag and put your slippers into your bag and carry along.


View of the boardwalk from the wetlands.

Many little crabs can be found on the wetlands. We spotted families carrying buckets and spades and digging through the sand looking for crabs.


Hubby is always awesome with crabs.



The wetlands is incredibly clean! The waters feels cool and it did not leave any mud particles on our soles. No worries about having to wash your feet later at all!

Gaomei Wetlands is a great spot for taking photographs. The backdrop is beautiful and we enjoyed the fresh air. Indeed a rare gem to visit in Taichung.



Don't miss out taking the reflective mirror images on the wetlands. The waters is so clear and you can take many fun shots!

We ventured pretty far out into the wetland and the sky is turning dark very fast. Despite wanting to stay a little longer, we have to make our way back to the boardwalk and bid farewell to the wetlands.

As we were walking back, the boardwalk were off limits for visitors to enter. It was very dark and we have to watch our steps. Do take note of the timings of the tides to avoid disappointment.


Gaomei Wetlands is simply gorgeous! Truly a great wonderland where the land meets the sea. Next time if you are in Taichung, do set aside some time to visit the wetlands and enjoy the natural beauty of nature.

Tips:
- Check out the tide timings - https://www.gaomei.com.tw/tide/
- Wear light and comfortable clothing (avoid long dress/pants)
- Wear comfortable footwear (recommend slippers/sandals)
- Bring along your cameras for best photo shots.
- Visit in the evenings for sunset view!
- Plan your time of arrival and check out the weather.

More photos at BPDGTravels Facebook Page
Check out our Taiwan 8D7N itinerary.

GAOMEI WETLANDS (高美湿地)
436台湾台中市清水區美堤街

12 comments:

ChermSee said...

Love the pictures, esp the sun setting over the windmills and wetlands. I have yet to visit Taiwan. Your post has definitely shown me a different side of Taiwan.

simplylambchops said...

Awww... this place is beautiful! It reminds me of Chek Jawa at low tide. And psst... I'm also fascinated by little crabs!

- Mary @ Simply Lambchops

Phoebe said...

Thanks for liking. There are many scenic spots in Taiwan and we would love to explore more on our next vacation. :) We are also learning so much more about the country on each visit.

Phoebe said...

I think adults and children are fascinated by crabs! The main difference between Gao Mei and Chek Jawa is the waters and sand there is so clean compared to ours. Truly an experience!

The Hooting Post said...

This is a lovely place to soak in nature and away from the hustle and bustle of the usual night markets! Sun set shots are <3 too!

Ai Sakura said...

You all are always so adventurous to travel out of the usual comfortable city areas.. this reminds me of our local Chek Jawa. So pretty and peaceful..

Ai @ Sakura Haruka

Pooja Kawatra said...

This is a lovely place and love those sunset points. My kids won't step in if crabs are there but love the beauty.

Unknown said...

Thanks for sharing this. Another interesting place to consider when we go Taiwan next time. Also...it's a great way for kids to learn and appreciate nature. Cheers!

Unknown said...

My goddaughter just went on a work experience trip to Taiwan - and her photos of the countryside were SO beautiful! What's driving in Taiwan like?

Shub said...

Next time when I am going to go for any trip, I am going to open this post and use it as a pointer. Lovely photos and awesome fun you all had as a family.

Phoebe said...

Thank you for liking! :) We love the nature!

Michelle Hon of "The Chill Mom" said...

This will definitely added to my bucket list. The scenery is so serene. Would love to go here with the family. Thanks for sharing!

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