Bike Taiwan

Our Quintessential Taiwan Bike Tour

Our time-tested classic route has been refined and honed over the years and takes us from Taipei in the north of the island, all the way to the very southern tip at Kenting. The first day's ride from Taroko Gorge down along the Pacific Coast is hard to beat, but is just the beginning! The following day we cross the alluring Coastal Mountains to emerge in the hidden world of the enchanting East Rift Valley. Riding quiet but amazingly well-maintained roads through idyllic tropical countryside we'll pass through sleepy indigenous villages, pomelo orchards and endless rice paddies, punctuating our journey with hot springs and delicious local meals.

Trip Highlights

• Experience the beauty of majestic Taroko Gorge

• Soak in theraputic natural hot springs

• Hike along the ancient Walami Trail

• Stand-up paddle board to the back drop of the dramatic east coast

_{10 Days from $3800}

Day 1 | Taipei | Arrival &Walking Tour

This afternoon we'll meet at our centrally located Taipei hotel before heading out for a wander through one of the city's most historic districts, ending with a delicious local dinner.

Day 2 | Taroko | Train Journey & Warm Up Ride 10km

This morning we'll say goodbye to the city to board a train for the beautiful journey along the dramatic east coast to breathtaking Taroko Gorge which carves its way through the Central Mountain Range. Whether shrouded in mist or glowing in sunlight, this sheer marble gorge is a captivating sight. From the station, it's a short but beautiful drive to our luxurious overnight lodgings, situated close to the gorge. On arrival, we'll check in and then have a bike fitting and take a short warm-up ride.

Day 3 | Shuilian | Cycle to Shuilian 60km

This morning we'll ride from the hotel to the accessible eastern edge of the gorge before bearing south along the Pacific Coast. We'll ride narrow lanes lined with banana palms and temples, taking beachside rest stops on our way south. After some lunch in Hualien we'll continue heading south along the increasingly impressive coastline, ascending to our gorgeous overnight lodgings which enjoys fabulous views and has a lovely refreshing pool.

Day 4 | Ruisui | Cycle to Ruisui 65km & Tea Plantations

We start the day with an epic downhill, and then hug the coast until we reach Fengbin, where we bear west across the stunning Coastal Mountain Range to emerge in the picturesque but little visited East Rift Valley, a land of lush green rice paddies and small indigenous communities. We'll stop for lunch at an organic farm co-operative restaurant in an Amis village and then move on south through prime tropical fruit growing country to our lovely bed and breakfast  set amidst beautiful countryside where a refreshing pool and soothing hot springs await. For those who want to explore a little more, the Tropic of Cancer Monument, the mysterious Saoba Stone Monoliths, and the tea farms of Wuhe are just a short drive away. In the evening we'll head into the nearby town for a tasty Japanese dinner.

Day 5 | Fuli | Cycle to Fuli 50km & Walami Trail Hike

Now officially in the tropics, we continue south through the ever-widening Rift Valley, to our overnight stop, which enjoys fabulous views. In the afternoon there's the option of a hike into the foothills of the Central Mountain Range along the enchanting Walami Trail where sightings of monkeys, deer, Swinhoe's Pheasant and eagles are commonplace, and Formosan bears are occasionally spotted! In the evening we'll enjoy a gourmet meal prepared by our host.

Day 6 | Donghe, East Coast | Cycle to Donghe 55km

This morning we pedal away from the Rift Valley, along a magical little road (often with more monkeys than cars) which cuts its way southeast through the low jungly hills of the Coastal Mountain Range. We'll hit the coast at one of its most impressive stretches, often compared with Hawaii, and have the next two nights here to relax and soak up the views. Donghe is renowned as a surf spot, hosting Taiwan's annual international surf competition, but also has beaches, an impressive river gorge, and a decent selection of cafés and restaurants, including the famed Donghe Baozi (steamed buns).

Day 7 | Donghe, East Coast | Rest Day in Donghe

Today is a free day to relax and soak up the spectacular views, but for something more active, paddleboarding on the emerald green waters of the Mawaku River through Donghe River Gorge is recommended. If you want to explore further afield the spectacularly rugged volcanic islet of Sanxiantai and Chenggong's pretty fishing harbour are just a short drive (or ride) away.

Day 8 | Taitung | Cycle to Taitung 35km

The short stunning ride down to Taitung throws up a multitude of alluring stops including beaches, bizarre rock formations, oceanside cafés and even art galleries. On arrival you can take a swim to cool off before heading out on foot to explore this laid-back city. There are night markets, parks, shops, cafés and restaurants within easy walking distance of the hotel, or there's the option to try your hand at traditional indigenous jewelry making!

Day 9 | Kenting | Cycle to Kenting 75km

Today we'll transfer by vehicle along the beautiful but busy coastal highway to Dawu where we'll begin our epic final day's ride with a long, gradual descent through the jungly hills of the Hengchun Peninsula, dotted with the odd indigenous village before bringing us back down to the coast. The coastal stretch here is one of Taiwan's finest, with the road running right alongside the ocean, passing windswept beaches and abandoned military bases before once again ascending into the jungle. The last leg of the ride takes us all the way to the island's southernmost point, from where it's just a short ride to Kenting, Taiwan's tropical playground. In the evening we'll explore Kenting night market and head out for a final dinner to celebrate our incredible Taiwan ride.

Day 10 | Transfer to Kaohsiung & Tour Concludes

This morning is free for you to further explore Kenting's bounty of activities. A group transfer is available at noon back to Kaohsiung International Airport or High-Speed-Rail Station. The tour ends on arrival in Kaohsiung. For those who want longer to explore this spectacular region we can assist with booking extra nights or activities.