When I first arrived on this small island in the Pacific I held few expectations for the adventure ahead. After years of cycle touring and bikepacking around the world I thought I had seen it all, experienced everything. But then came Taiwan, it blew me away. There really is nowhere else like it on the plant.
Natural Beauty
Taiwan boasts some glorious landscapes, from its lush hillside jungles and dense mountain trails to its modern, chaotic cities full of life. There are the high mountains and all the climbing roads that lead up to their jaw dropping peaks. Winding coastal roads overlooking the crystal blue waters along the Pacific. Hidden routes on wild islands and explorations of the worlds only tropical badland. Small farming villages alongside stunning mountains that reach from ocean up and into the clouds. We could go on and on. you will just have to come and see for yourself. #Taiwanbeauty
Tailor made trips
Taiwan is a place which can be sculpted to your ride, you can choose your adventure here, almost unlike anywhere I have been before there really is space for everyone and all levels of cyclist can have a trip of a lifetime here.
Want a relaxed roll along the east coast? Not a problem. Take a train, rolling your bike on and off with ease, before gently riding between hot springs, farming villages and along perfectly paved roads devoid of cars. spend your evenings soaking in warm waters and trying all the incredible foods on offer.
Looking for a challenge? Ride the central mountains ocean to summit and even visit East Asia's highest peak. The wilds of central Taiwan are a ride unlike anywhere in such a small space. push yourself and you will be rewarded. Up here the air is clear the stars are bright and the world is yours as you wild camp across from views of mountain ranges that stretch off in the distance.
Complete an island loop, a Huándǎo (環島). Most riders both local and from afar set this challenge for themselves when coming to Taiwan. But be warned, you need more time than you think and don't get trapped in the traffic light roads thats plague the western cityscapes. Instead take a trip less conventional taking in all of the islands wonderful landscapes. Allow time.
Taroko gorge! The wonderfully challenging road from Taiwan's east coast city of Hualien up through the natural wonder of Taroko gorge and into the clouds above is made world famous by the Taiwan KOM sea to summit race. Over 4000m or climbing in 100km to reach the islands highest road pass. But don't worry, for us mere mortals, riding the 20km long gorge road is a wonderfully simple affair and the miund blowing adventure will be a trip highlight. #taiwanKOM
Safety and Fun in abundance
Taiwan's population is one of the friendliest out there. The culture of food, family and kindness makes an exploration of the island even that little bit more relaxing. You, your bike and your belongings will be safe, leave that cumbersome U lock at home.
There are off-road adventures, wild mountain roads to explore, fast long descents and wild camping spots everywhere. An abundance of wildlife and an unpredictable weather system. Taiwan will not always be easy but boy oh boy is it fun. Taiwan is a tougher challenge than most expect, even along the coastal roads there are few truly flat rides, and the winds can change direction any time. Expect the unexpected, and allow space to change your plans. #visittaiwan
Bicycle Island
Taiwan is a true home for bicycles and cyclists. bring your own or easily rent whilst you're here. The worlds largest producer, Giant, comes from Taiwan. But there are some amazing independent bicycle shops and talented local companies that will add to your adventure and help you along your way.
Cyclists are respected and cheered on in Taiwan. Road rage is not a factor here and space is almost always offered to those riding on the roads. People wind down there windows, offer encouragement, look on in amazement and offer help as you make your way.
The island's network of bicycle rest stops, whilst admittedly in decline, offer locations all over the island where you can fill your water bottles, grab a tool and a pump for those quick fixes and perhaps even ask for a spot to pitch your tent for the night.
加油！ As your ride arounds you should expect to hear this wonderful phrase - Jiāyóu. It encompasses everything that can be said, keep going, you can do it, add energy you're doing great. Its the phrase that gives us our name and it will help you around the island as the sound of it in your ear will add energy to your ride, like a tailwind snapping at your heals.
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