2021 has been proclaimed ‘The Year of Cycling’ by the Taiwan Tourist Board, so what better place to enjoy stunning scenery and wide-open spaces as we look forward to finally getting over the pandemic?
The experts at Bamboo Travel have put together their five favourite Taiwan cycle routes, each of which can be enjoyed on a number of different itineraries.
Here are brief summaries of the five rides to whet the appetite…
Sun Moon Lake route: 30km
Sun Moon Lake lies in Taiwan’s mountainous interior and is the largest body of fresh water on the Island. Pathed cycling trails have been set up covering much of the lake’s edge, and a complete loop around Sun Moon Lake is heralded as one of the most beautiful bike rides in the world, where forest-clad mountains fall away into the aquamarine water. Although it is only 33km, the ride covers an undulating trail so is the most challenging route on this list. Riders will be rewarded with a ride through an outstanding area of natural beauty, featuring a scattering of temples and some incredibly dramatic views. The ride can be enjoyed on the two-week Treasures of Taiwan itinerary (from £3,395 pp).
Tamsui Golden Coast Cycling Route, Taipei: 9km
Tamsui is a scenic, coastal area around a 40-minute ride from central Taipei on the red Metro Line. The Golden Coast cycling route is named after the golden glow of the Tamsui River at sunset. The trail largely follows the river, passing several interesting local landmarks including the Tamsui River Mangrove Forest Reserve, Fort San Domingo (also known as Fort Red Hair to the locals), and culminates at Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf and the town’s fish market, a great place for a lunch stop. The ride is included on the 15-day Taiwan in Style (from £4,895 pp).
Chenggong to Pisirian Route, Taitung: 10km
Chenggong is a small fishing town off Taiwan’s Highway 11, which hugs the spectacular Pacific Coast linking Hualien and Taitung. The Chenggong to Pisirian trail largely hugs the Pacific Ocean, linking Chenggong with local aboriginal fishing village Pisirian. The trail passes through the Chenggong Coast Park and the Sansiantai Recreation Area, an area of coastal landscape with points of interest including the famous arched bridge. The short route follows a minor road with little traffic along largely flat terrain. The ride is included on the 15-day Family Adventure in Taiwan (from £2,820 per adult, £2,690 per child).
Guanshan Town Circle Bicycle Path, Taitung: 12km
Staying on Taiwan’s east coast the Guanshan Circle Bicycle Path circles the Guanshan Water Park, a scenic area formed around a large lake. The town of Guanshan is nestled between the Central Mountain Range and Coastal Mountain Range in the scenic East Rift Valley. This picturesque area’s flat terrain and quiet roads make it ripe for exploration by bike, and especially accessible for novice cyclists. The area around Guanshan is dotted with fields of rice and rapeseed with the Central and Coastal Mountain Ranges providing a stunning backdrop. The ride is included on the 15-day Taiwan in Style (from £4,895 pp).
National Museum of Marine Biology to White Sands Bay cycling trail: 7km
The Hengchun Peninsula at the southernmost point of Taiwan is an area of low mountains, thick forest, rugged cliffs, and great beaches, making it an ideal place to explore by bike. The 7km of coastline stretching from the National Museum of Marine Biology to White Sands Bay includes a great combination of scenery and sandy beaches. This is a pleasurable ride finishing at White Sands Bay in the outstanding Kenting National Park and largely hugs the ocean along flat roads making it suitable for riders of all experience levels. There are no bike rental facilities in this area so bikes will need to be rented in the nearby towns of Checheng or Hengchun. The ride is included on the 15-day Self-Drive Taiwan itinerary (from £2,795 pp).
Bamboo Travel holidays include international flights, transportation, accommodation, meals, and sightseeing/activities as per each individual itinerary, and a guide. Prices are based on two people sharing a room.
For more Taiwan travel information click here.
Bamboo Travel, 020 020 7720 9285, bambootravel.co.uk.
