Beitou Hot Spring Resort (Tian Yue Quan)

A leafy location outside central Taipei and uncluttered, neutral decor give the Beitou Hot Spring Resort a serene, inviting ambiance. The large, business-like lobby is decked out with polished marble and wood, a natural, minimalist motif that’s repeated throughout the airy rooms and common areas. But this resort isn't known for its decor. Its main calling card is its14,000-square-foot hot spring complex, which is open to the public. Thankfully, it tends to be uncrowded -- plus hotel guests always have the option of retreating to the private hot-spring tubs in their rooms if the public pool gets too busy. This property mainly attracts couples and small groups on relaxing getaway centered around enjoying the hot springs, but a small playroom on the grounds points to the fact that families with kids are welcome, too.

Beitou Hot Spring Resort is located in the Beitou district, about a 30-minute MRT ride north of downtown Taipei. Distant mountains and tree-lined streets make for a tranquil setting, but there are still a good number of restaurants and shops within walking distance. Beitou Park, a pretty wooded area with a topiary maze and several small waterfalls, is right across the street. It’s less than a five-minute walk to the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, while Beitou Market can be reached in 10 minutes by foot. It’s about a 10-minute walk to Beitou MRT Station, which offers connections to downtown Taipei. Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is a 40-minute drive away.

Everything about this resort's guest rooms invites serenity, starting with the minimalist decor and neutral color palettes paired with wood accents and white bed linens. Slippers are tucked in bedside tables, while neatly-folded bathrobes are set on top of beds. Dark wood storage units hold mini-fridges, bottled water, and electric kettles can warm up hot tea or coffee. But the true highlight of these rooms is set behind glass partitions. There guest will find gleaming black marble bathtubs filled with water from the local hot springs. 

Apart from these tubs, the open-concept bathrooms feature vessel sinks and an extensive range of bath products, including body lotion and facial cleanser. Frosted-glass doors conceal toilet vestibules and walk-in showers. Some Deluxe Rooms offer small private saunas as well.

All rooms are equipped with wall-mounted flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Closets with slatted wooden doors hold personal safes as well. Several Deluxe Rooms have balconies or nice views of Beitou Park, too.

As its name suggests, the main feature of this resort is its 14,000-square-foot public hot spring complex. It’s decorated with lots of natural materials like wood, bamboo, and stone. There are separate bathing areas for men and women, which include hot and cold pools, a whirlpool, sauna, steam room, and lounge. There are also 14 private hot-spring rooms available. 

Given the resort's somewhat removed location, the three dining venues on site are welcome additions. The hotel’s main restaurant, Gourmedise Fusion Café, continues the property’s bright, simple aesthetic with its large windows and pastel chairs. The restaurant serves a free breakfast buffet, along with lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. Breakfast includes a good range of hot and cold items, although some guests find the buffet spread, which is the same every day, too repetitive. Le Presse offers light pastries and sandwiches throughout the day, and there’s also an outdoor food truck that serves snacks in the afternoon. 

The property has six event spaces, the largest of which can accommodate up to 300 guests. Wedding planning services are available. The lobby includes a play area for kids with books, toys, and a TV. Free Wi-Fi is offered throughout, and there’s free parking on-site.