We discovered to our delight that the two make a great combination. For world-weary city dwellers, they provide the much-needed and most-sought-after sanctuaries that help them to rest and recuperate. Moreover, the various activities offered in these farms are as invigorating as the vista itself.

Serene and poignantly pretty because of its lakeside location, Chiayi Farm (嘉義農場), located in Chiayi County (嘉義縣), is a definite scene-stealer among the lot. One can spend hours cruising in the lake, taking long walks through its forested hills, indulge in endless fun-filled activities, enjoy a plethora of gourmet delicacies or simply relax by the water’s edge, counting the soft ripples.

Even the most pragmatic visitors can’t escape its charm. “Our guests keep coming back,” said the elegant lady at the Information Office, which seemed a bit far-fetched at that time. But after a weekend sojourn, I realized the absolute truth of her statement. Even now, as I am writing this, I crave to experience that intoxicating blend of sun, fun and magical landscape once again.

From the moment you step inside the sprawling compound, it’s an experience by itself. The entrance is unique, flanked by two giant squirrel statues, one on each side, engrossed in eating berries.

Before you finish admiring the woodwork, tiny living versions appear on the roadside to attract your attention with their endless antics, a delight to watch but hard to photograph. Later on, you come to know that the squirrel is the endearing symbol of the farm.

The farm spreads along the slopes of hills on both sides. Well-manicured gardens full of colorful flowers are scattered all over the farm. Numerous side trails, well-shaded by tall palm trees, arise from the main road that leads to the Tsengwen Reservoir (曾文水庫).

Different sections of the farm house different activities, very well marked in English. In the distance, one can see the achingly blue waters of Tsengwen reservoir basking in the sun, swathed in a state of blissful calm.

Far away, the hills from the Central Mountain Range stand in unison as if to guard the rear from any possible intrusion.

The accommodation complex is as striking as the landscape. Rows of cottages built in European County style grace the surroundings. On the inside, they provide all the comforts of modern life while the exterior gives a very ‘native’ feeling. There are restaurants offering simple home-made to gourmet delicacies. It also has snack bars, coffee shops, ice-cream parlors, popcorn vendors - anything and everything in food and drink to suit every mood and time of day.

Among the various fun-filled activities, grass skateboarding is the most popular. As the skateboarders glide down the soft grassy field, shrieks of laughter reverberate in the air, especially when they go overboard and topple over.

Nearby, would-be archers practice their skills in stern concentration. Kids can have a gala time trying out the numerous activities in the playground area, leaving the parents with some free time to spend in solitude.

But be forewarned, on popular holidays, like Chinese New Year, the grounds near the lake side are completely occupied by colorful tents that, in my opinion, add warmth to the serene backdrop.

The flurry of activities - as families indulge in barbecuing, singing, dancing, playing catch, running with their dogs, or sipping tea quietly - fascinate me nonetheless. I am not a ‘camping’ person, but I do admire the spirit of these people who find pleasure with such bare minimum.

After a bout of boating in the lake, in which I packed in a lot of laziness in me, I went for a nature ramble to exhaust some it. The walk to the top of the hill was tiresome but the panoramic view of the lake and hills from up there was worth the hard work. Afterwards, I visited the Bird and Butterfly sections.

Though I could hear their musical notes, the birds preferred to stay hidden behind the thick foliages. The butterflies, however, posed beautifully like some trained models, satisfying every one.

In the evening, with the day tourists gone, the farm becomes very quiet. Sitting by the riverside, we watched a somber sunset as gray clouds hover overhead. The lights from different cottages and restaurants gave it a kind of mysterious feel and we slowly retired to our room. The pervading silence seemed to grow with each passing moment seeping contentment through our veins.

How to get there:

Driving from Taipei - Take Freeway 1, exit at Chiayi, change to County Highway No 159. Then take Provincial Highway No. 18 and change to Provincial Highway 3. The farm is on Provincial Highway 3, near kilometer marker 350. Look for the Chiayi Farm signpost.The farm has both accommodations and camping facilities. For more information call

02-27056181 or 05-2522250.