When traveling, it’s advisable to temper one’s expectations. My three-day, three-night experience in Tonglu was a testament to this, as I visited various locales such as Daqishan, Lucicun, Shishecun, and Maling Ancient Path. These destinations were quite spread out, making it challenging to access attractions like Heartbeat Paradise and Tongtian River without a vehicle. For those who enjoy aquatic pursuits, the natural scenery is indeed captivating. However, walking along the Maling Ancient Path could be quite eerie, with a palpable sense of gloom and mystery hovering over the mountainous terrain.
Regarding transportation, while hiring a taxi may seem convenient for those with the means, it’s worth noting that the costs can be quite substantial, potentially running into hundreds of yuan for a round trip. As for dining, Yu’s Mung Bean Cake garnered a long queue, with wait times exceeding an hour, but the taste was rather mediocre in my opinion. Conversely, Yao Ma Noodle Shop, located adjacent to the Hanting Hotel, was a delightful surprise, offering delicious noodles that stood out amidst the sea of similar restaurants. Other popular venues, such as Xianglin Xiangqin, were rather ordinary, but could suffice as a fallback option when other choices are limited. The atmosphere in these trendy restaurants was often lively, with queues a common sight.
Overall, my experience in Tonglu was far from breathtaking, and I would advise fellow travelers to manage their expectations accordingly. Additionally, accommodation prices were quite steep, and even dining in the villages could be pricey, with a bowl of noodles costing between 20 and 30 yuan, comparable to urban prices. Therefore, having a vehicle would greatly enhance the travel experience, and I would hesitate to recommend Tonglu as a destination without one.
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