Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake, set high in the misty mountains of central Taiwan, is the largest and most beautiful lake on the island, its serene blue waters named for their shape, one side round like the sun and the other curved like a crescent moon. Ringed by lush forested mountains, temples and pagodas, and home to the indigenous Thao people, it is a tranquil and scenic retreat, explored by boat, by a lovely lakeside cycle path rated among the world's most beautiful, and by a cable car to the hills.

What you actually see

• The lake and mountains - the serene blue lake ringed by forested peaks.
• The lakeside cycle path - the scenic bike route around the shore.
• The temples and pagodas - the Wenwu Temple and Ci'en Pagoda.
• A boat trip and cable car - the ferry across and the ropeway to the hills.

When to go

October to April, the cooler, drier season, for the most pleasant weather, as summer is hot and humid with a risk of typhoons; the lake is often beautifully misty in the early morning. It is a relaxed retreat best enjoyed over a night or two.

Honest expectations

It is a popular domestic tourist destination, so it can be busy, especially at weekends and holidays, with tour groups; a weekday and an overnight give a calmer experience. The lake is often misty, which is atmospheric but can hide the views. It is a scenic, relaxing retreat rather than a place of dramatic sights, lovely for cycling, boating and the surrounding tea country.

Nearby

The city of Taichung, the Alishan mountains and the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village are within reach.