When we think about romantic couples getaway, our minds tend to wander off to destinations like France, Italy, Santorini, the Maldives, Bali, and Hawaii just to name a few. However, if you’re looking for a more unique, unconventional vacation idea, allow me to introduce you to the ultimate Sun Moon Lake hotel that is fit for birthdays, honeymoons, anniversaries, and all of life’s major milestones.

The Lalu, Sun Moon Lake

Address: No. 142, Zhongxing Road, Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan 555
Phone Number: +886-4-9285-5311
Website: https://www.thelalu.com.tw/en

Check-In Time: 3:00PM
Check-Out Time: 12:00PM

About The Lalu

The Lalu hotel is a 5-star luxury lakefront accommodation nestled along Taiwan’s most pristine alpine lake – the Sun Moon Lake. It is known for its impeccable views and stunning architecture by award-winning architect, Kerry Hill, which embodies his distinctive “Ongoing Style” that is meant to withstand time and remain “classic” in the next several decades to come.

In 1923, it served as the official residence for Japanese Crown Prince, Hirohito. Later in 1949, it became President Chiang Kai-Shek’s vacation/entertainment home. Because of its rich history, it is perceived as the most prestigious hotel in all of Taiwan. A stay here is definitely fit for a royal!

Getting Here

Taipei to The Lalu, Sun Moon Lake takes approximately three hours by car. Alternatively, you can opt for the high speed rail from Taipei to Taichung and that will cut down your travel time significantly. (Taipei to Taichung usually takes around 45 to 65 minutes give or take.) From Taichung, The Lalu is another hour or so away by car.

My boyfriend and I were already travelling around Taichung so we planned to rent a car to get to Sun Moon Lake. Luckily, we realized last-minute that bussing was pretty easy and straightforward, as there are no transfers. It’s a lot cheaper and you won’t have to deal with annoying car rental logistics.

The bus drops you off directly in front of Shuishe Visitors Center and The Lalu can arrange for a shuttle pickup to take you up to the hotel.

If you prefer, taxi and Uber are readily available in Taiwan as well although do keep in mind that fares are not as affordable as other Asian countries, such as Thailand or Vietnam.

Check-In

As mentioned above, check-in begins at 3:00PM. Like any other property, early check-in is never guaranteed and depends on the availability of your room.

Courtyard Pool Villa

My boyfriend and I had the pleasure of experiencing Lalu Sun Moon Lake’s Anniversary Package, which included a one-night stay in a one-bedroom Courtyard Pool Villa along with other specially-curated couples activities.

This 3593 square foot one-bedroom villa consists of a private yard complete with a pavilion and pool, as well as a spacious living room, fireplace, dining area, king-size bed, and Japanese-style bathroom.

Anniversary Package

Apart from getting to spend one night in the Courtyard Pool Villa, The Lalu’s Anniversary Package also comprises of:

Interactive perfume making
In-room complimentary chocolate cake + bottle of red wine
Fresh rose petal and candle decorations
Personalized anniversary photos
Candlelit dinner at The Oriental Brasseries
Complimentary breakfast

Perfume making left complimentary dessert and wine right.

Dinner at The Oriental Brasseries

MANA Lamb Frenched Rack left; Japan Kagoshima A5 Wagyu right.

Dinner was a seven-course meal with three main course options:

Amuse-Bouche with smoked salmon, foie gras with chocolate, and white rind cheese
Taiwanese Abalone Salad
Porcini Mushroom Cream Soup
Dill Salmon with Quinoa Risotto
Sorbet
Main course
- Japan Kagoshima A5 Wagyu New Yorker with Port Wine Sauce
- Roasted Iberian Pork Rack with Pineapple Osmanthus Sauce
- MANA Lamb Frenched Rack with Cherry Sauce
Chef’s Special Dessert and Petit Four

Amuse-Bouche left; Porcini Mushroom Cream Soup right.

Dill Salmon with Quinoa Risotto left; Sorbet as palate cleanser right.

Chef’s Special Dessert.

My boyfriend and I went with the Wagyu and lamb, and everything was absolutely divine. Thinking about it now is making me hungry!

Add Ons: The Lalu Spa

In addition to the above, guests can add rose bouquets, celebratory cakes, and/or a couples spa massage to said Anniversary Package.

The Lalu arranged a couples massage for us, which began with a calming foot bath followed by an aromatic oil treatment to relieve tension and stress.

With this being my very first massage in Taiwan, I wasn’t exactly used to the type of technique and pressure used. However, if you like a strong massage, you will most certainly enjoy this.

The change room also consists of a hot and cold bath + steam room. We unfortunately did not have time to enjoy them, but I do recommend showing up early to your spa appointment so you get the full experience.

Additional Photos

Entrance to Courtyard Pool Villa.

Closet space.

Bath area.

Infinity pool.

Complimentary breakfast.

Final Verdict

Amenities: ★★★★★
Cleanliness: ★★★★☆
Comfort: ★★★★★
Proximity: ★★★★☆
Quietness: ★★★★★
Safety: ★★★★★
Space: ★★★★★
Value of Price: ★★★★☆
Internet Access: Complimentary

Pros

Professional staff who speak great English
Convenient location
- Within walking distance to the ferry dock and bike rental shops
- Short car/bike ride to popular attractions, such as Xiangshan Visitor Center and Wenwu Temple
Complimentary parking and shuttle services to nearby Shuishe Visitors Center
Minibar snacks on the house
Living area and bathroom are extremely spacious
Sunrise views here are amongst some of the best in all of Sun Moon Lake
Complimentary breakfast with Asian and Western offerings

Cons

Overall, both my boyfriend and I were extremely satisfied with our stay. We have no complaints whatsoever. If , however, it’s your first time staying in a pool villa in Asia, just beware that geckos are very common. When you’re so close to nature, it’s imminent that you share the space.

I hope this inspires you to embark on a Sun Moon Lake trip and be sure to let The Lalu know I sent you if you decide to book with them 😉