Cycle Southern Taiwan

Lets begin your Taiwan Adventure in Taipei Main Train Station. We will meet at 08:15am at the Starbucks Cafe there. We will then take the express train to Hualien, the entry to the East Coast. During the two hour ride, you'll see views oif the Pacific Ocean on one side and tropical mountains on the other. After arriving in Haulien, we will enjoy lunch and then head to our accommodations in the city. We'll make sure your bike fits you perfectly before we set out for an afternoon ride on Hualien City's coastal bikeway that links several attractions, meandering through parks to the fishing harbour. Its a leisurely ride where you'll see locals going about their lives in the relaxing manner this area is renowned for. Soak in the views and enjoy the sea breeze. Tonight we'll enjoy local foods at a great restaurant.

Meals:  Nil

After a hearty breakfast we’ll cycle from the door of our accommodation through Hualien and head towards the rice-growing region of the East Rift Valley where we’ll have lunch (fresh, local food) by a picturesque lake. We’ll then continue our fantastic, mostly flat, ride alongside an impressive mountain range and meandering rivers, all the way to a beautiful bed and breakfast with stunning panoramic views overlooking the valley and distant mountains. Elevation +231m Descent -102m

Meals:  B

Today, we'll keep following the East Rift Valley with mountains on both sides. You'll bike past rice fields, tropical fruit farms, and even see the Tropic of Cancer marker. We'll take a break in Wuhe to enjoy locally grown tea, especially the famous Honey Black Tea of this area. The view is stunning, making it a great spot for a tea break. If you're interested, there's a pretty nature park we can visit along the way called Butterfly Valley. It's best to see the butterflies from March to August, and we can take a short walk over a clear river there. Lunch will be at a local Hakka restaurant, giving you a chance to try more of the fresh and tasty food of this region. Our ride for the day ends at a hot spring hotel, where you can relax in a hot spring or in a cool creek. Cycle Distance 67km. Elevation +477m Descent -312m

Meals:  B

From the hotel we’ll ride through the richest rice growing area in Taiwan. This is where the highest quality rice in the country comes from, according to many Taiwanese. We will pass agricultural villages and townships where time is marked by the seasons and harvest celebrations. As we start our descent through jungle-covered hills towards the coast we’ll cycle through prime monkey habitat where it’s common to see family troupes relaxing on the surrounding cliff sides. Once on the coast, we’ll also stop for some famed local baozi (steamed buns) before finishing at our nearby accommodation, complete with a mountain backdrop and ocean views, where there’s also a set of stairs across the road heading down to a beautiful, big empty beach. Cycle Distance 70km. Elevation +664 Descent -781m

Meals:  B

Following breakfast we'll jump in the van and head further down the coast and up into the Southern mountain ranges. At the peak we’ll jump onto the bikes and enjoy a beautiful ride down the hills and continue on peaceful roads that run right next to the vast blue Pacific. We’ll stop by a secluded harbor and beach that are perfect for a dip. We can finish here or we can continue riding for another 22km through the coastal hills, finishing at an agricultural village for lunch. We’ve also the option of heading to a secluded waterfall and swimming hole (and butterfly haven), close by, if you’d like some freshwater serenity. We’ll then take a quick drive to our accommodation tonight at South Bay, with Nanwan Beach across the road. The south of Taiwan is often compared to Hawaii; with beautiful beaches and warm water, and no wonder, as it’s almost on the same latitude. Cycle Distance 42km. elevation +232m -677m

Meals:  B

Today's ride is starting and ending at our accommodation. We'll pedal uphill to Hengchun National Park, passing through beautiful tree-lined paths, bays, and sandy beaches. We'll reach Taiwan's southernmost point and Baisha Beach, known from 'Life of Pi'. A stunning lookout offers panoramic peninsula and mountain views. Lunch at the best seafood restaurant follows, before a quick ride back to the hotel. Relax and catch the sunset on the beach or terrace. Cycle Distance 67km. Elevation +289m Descent - 280m

Meals:  B

Following breakfast we will take you to any activities you may not have had the chance to do on our rest day. Snorkeling, surf lessons, a visit to the aquarium, morning market, numerous beaches, a stroll in the national park or a hot & cold spring.We’ll then head back to the hotel where you can shower and pack. In the afternoon you will be transferred to Kaohsiung’s International Airport (KHH) or High Speed Rail in time for your departure flight, train or onward accommodation.

Meals:  B