Overview
This compact loop ride takes in the full diversity of Taiwan’s wild east, from Taroko, the world’s deepest marble gorge, south along the stunning Pacific Coast, and then crossing the Coastal Mountains to the East Rift Valley, a lush, forgotten land of rice paddies, tropical fruit orchards, sleepy indigenous settlements, and hot springs galore! We follow the valley north to the laid-back city of Hualien where our ride ends.
On this active adventure, you’ll enjoy rewarding, achievable cycling as well as a fun hike through the Taroko Gorge to see more of the breathtaking scenery. The riding showcases a variety of different Taiwanese landscapes, from mountains to tropics and rice paddies, through small indigenous villages all the way to the sparkling coast. Along the way, you’ll enjoy comfortable and well-located accommodations and fresh Taiwanese meals and you’ll come away with lasting memories of your cycling holiday.
We ride on well-made roads some of which have designated cycle lanes. The terrain varies from gently undulating along parts of the east coast to the steep ascent and descent over the coastal mountain range. Traffic is generally light although there will be stretches on busier roads. There is always a support vehicle on hand to give you a lift if you need a break from the riding.
360 Km riding. We ride on well-made roads some of which have designated cycle lanes. The terrain varies from gently undulating along parts of the east coast to the steep ascent and descent over the coastal mountain range. Traffic is generally light although there will be stretches on busier roads.
Pedal assist E-bikes are an available option on this tour for $385 surcharge.
Highlights
Savor super-fresh seafood at Yanliao
Explore the bizarre coastal rock formations near pretty Shitiping Harbour
Hike across an eight-arched bridge to reach the magical volcanic islet of Sanxiantai
Explore the indigenous culinary delights at Hualien Nightmarket
Day to Day
Today you’ll meet your tour leader at Taipei Main Station for the spectacular train ride along the coast to Taroko, the world’s deepest marble gorge, which forges its way through the Central Mountain Range. On arrival, we’ll have some lunch and then take a short but stunning walk before continuing to our hotel in the heart of the gorge. Whether shrouded in mist or glowing in the sunlight, this sheer marble gorge is a captivating sight. On arrival, we’ll have a bike fitting and short test ride before dinner, and then a full briefing to the exciting week ahead!
We make an early start for the exhilarating ride down through Taroko Gorge and to the sea. Near the end of the gorge we’ll make a short diversion to trek alongside the aquamarine waters of a tributary gorge. On exiting the gorge we then ride narrow lanes lined with banana palms and temples, taking beachside rest stops on our way south along the coast. Our ride ends at the seaside settlement of Yanliao, famous for its seafood.
Today we ride south along the increasingly dramatic coastline, starting with some hills! We’ll make a few stops at some of the most spectacular points before reaching our lovely hotel at Shitiping. The afternoon is free to explore the otherworldly coastal scenery and lovely fishing harbor at Shitiping. In the evening we’ll head out for another excellent seafood dinner.
Today we continue our journey south on one of the most beautiful stretches of the Pacific East Coast, often compared with Hawaii. Just a few kilometers into the ride we’ll pass the Tropic of Cancer Monument which denotes our entry into the tropics, and then shortly after we’ll make a stop at Baxian Caves, the site of earliest known human settlement in Taiwan. Weather permitting we’ll have chance to stop and hike around the craggy volcanic islet of Sanxiantai on our route to the laid-back surf settlement of Donghe where we overnight.
Today’s ride is the toughest of the tour, but also the most spectacular. We take a break from the coast, heading across the Coastal Mountain Range on a gorgeous little road which offers the chance to spot monkeys before climbing into the hills. Once we’ve crossed the mountains we’ll make our way north through the magical East Rift Valley, a land of lush rice paddies, fruit orchards and sleepy Amis villages nestled between the Coastal Mountains and the towering Central Mountain Range. Our long ride is rewarded by the chance to soothe weary limbs in the mineral-rich hot springs at Ruisui.
Our final day’s ride takes us north on a lovely little road which hugs the valley side, passing through orange and pomelo orchards and eventually back to the coast and the city of Hualien where the ride ends. Today’s lunch will be at an amazing indigenous community-run organic farm restaurant, and in the evening there’ll be a chance to explore Hualien’s famous night market.
This morning we’ll transfer to Hualien train station for your early morning return train to Taipei. The tour ends on arrival at Taipei Train Station.
Dates & Price
EARLY RIDER PRIZE: Be in the first 4 to book a departure and get 5% OFF the tour price*
*Not applicable with guaranteed, private, or self-guided tours, other discounts, trip credit, or special offers
WHAT MAKES US STAND OUT
GRASSHOPPER STYLE
Since Taiwan is an extremely cycling-friendly country with unexpectedly beautiful scenery and few tourists, it is the ideal destination for a bike tour. We’ve crafted this itinerary to showcase the highlights of the Pacific coast on a ride that is accessible to anyone who is moderately comfortable on a bike. If you’re looking for tropical weather, Hawaii-like scenery, and satisfying cycling, this is the tour for you. Take in the views, culture, and tasty cuisine of Taiwan on this bike adventure.
