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Allow the rhythm of your wheels to carry you across Taiwan's breathtaking East Coast on a 6-day self-guided cycling adventure. Crafted for those who relish a challenge and the freedom to explore at their own pace, your route unfurls from the majestic Taroko Gorge, through the serene East Rift Valley, and over the Coastal Mountain Range. With your luggage seamlessly transferred ahead each day, you are free to focus solely on the ride. Pedal through a world of natural wonder, from lush rice paddies and misty mountains to hidden beaches. Ride the iconic Sanxiantai "dragon" bridge and relax in a restorative soak in the famous Ruisui Hot Springs. Discover the untamed beauty of Taiwan, one rewarding pedal stroke at a time.
Your adventure begins at Xincheng Station in Taipei, where you'll ...
Your adventure begins at Xincheng Station in Taipei, where you'll pedal from the majestic Taroko Gorge down to the Pacific shores of Qixingtan beach. Journeying inland, the East Rift Valley unfolds, revealing the dramatic cliffs of Fanshuliao Gorge. Experience local culture with an authentic Amis feast and a restorative soak in the Ruisui Hot Springs. Discover ancient history at the Saoba Monoliths and savor honey-scented black tea in the Wuhe highlands. Your final leg takes you over the Coastal Mountain Range, across the iconic Sanxiantai "dragon" bridge, and through the artistic surf town of Dulan. This unforgettable cycling expedition concludes in the vibrant city of Taitung, leaving you with memories of Taiwan’s untamed beauty.
The package includes 5 nights' accommodation in a mix of deluxe hotels on a twin-share basis. Recovery is built into every day. Kick back at oceanfront spots like Lakeshore Taroko Hotel with waves practically reaching your doorstep; rest in the peaceful valley embrace of Silence Manor after a long ride; or decompress at a beachside villa and enjoy the opportunity to slip straight into the sea for a snorkel. With specified meals, luggage transfers, and your bicycle and helmet included, you can ride in absolute comfort with our expert local guides.
Embark on a self-guided odyssey where each pedal stroke unveils the soul of Taiwan's East Coast, from the misty gorges of Taroko and the ancient secrets of the Rift Valley to the sun-kissed shores of the Pacific.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Taiwan. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
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Approx. 5 km (3 miles), 1-2 hours biking
Welcome to Taiwan! Your adventure kicks off with a scenic train ride down Taiwan's east coast. Most of this road is flanked by the ocean and the steep central mountain range on either side. Also, your tickets are covered for the journey, so you can rest assured and focus on the journey.
Once you roll into Xincheng station (around 12:30), your leader will welcome you, take you out for a solid lunch, and give you a quick rundown of the trip.
Following your meal, check into your oceanfront sanctuary, perfectly timed for a custom bike fitting before your leader departs. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to curate. Hop in the saddle for a leisurely cruise along what is widely considered one of the most stunning coastlines in the country, sink your toes into the sand at the beach, or simply unwind poolside with a crisp, cold Taiwan Beer.
Nestled where the mountains meet the sea in the heart of Taroko National Park, Lakeshore Hotel Taroko invites you to a sanctuary of unparalleled luxury and natural splendor. Surrender to tranquility in the gorge-view spa, indulge in Michelin-starred culinary creations, and explore an exclusive wine cellar, all while enveloped by the majestic beauty of Taiwan's most breathtaking landscape.
Approx. 46 km (29 miles), 3-5 hours biking
Today is all about getting a proper feel for riding in Taiwan. You’ll cycle from the mouth of Taroko Gorge right down to the ocean. Taroko is the world’s deepest marble gorge, carved out by the Liwu River over millions of years. To avoid highway traffic, your path takes you along quiet back roads peppered with banana palms and hidden temples.
As you begin to descend towards the Pacific, you most certainly cannot miss stopping by the Qixingtan beach. Not only is the scenery adorable, but this beautiful beach also features a crescent shape and a pebble beach, with crystal-clear azure waters, all framed by the towering Central Mountain Range. Just offshore, the ocean floor drops off into a massive deep-sea trench, which is even more captivating to watch. Grab some fresh coconut juice or ice cream, find a nice spot, and soak in the views. The pace is entirely up to you. Want to explore a temple or stall for some traditional baobing (Taiwanese shaved ice)? Go for it.
For dinner, a short walk from here brings you to a terrific seafood spot. Also, since you are right by the sea, this area is famous for flying fish and wild-caught lobster, so you may find it well worth ordering whatever the day’s catch is.
Your accommodation tonight is the boutique, Premier Villa 178 B&B, si overlooking the sparkling sea in the charming fishing village of Yanliao. This privileged position affords every room on the property the luxury of sweeping, unobstructed ocean views from massive floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies. The delicious, freshly made breakfast service is a standout touch, as you will find, while the guest rooms here feature crisp air-conditioning, walk-in showers, and, on the outside, a beachside lawn equipped with sun loungers and barbecue grills, all leading directly to the beach sand.
Approx. 76 km (47 miles), 5-7+ hours biking
Start the day with a refreshing cup of coffee before heading out. Today, you leave the coast behind for a ride into the East Rift Valley, the lush, green heart of Taiwan. This place is immensely wild: a massive tectonic trench formed by the collision of the Philippine Sea and Eurasian plates. Your cycling path runs through endless rice paddies and is flanked by two massive ranges, with crisp mountain air the whole way. This route has some amazing stops. First is Fanshuliao Gorge, famous for its dramatic “one-thread sky” canyon view.
From the bottom of the deep, narrow canyon, the giant rock walls squeeze the sky into a tiny line of light. The two sides of the river also look completely different. One side is a straight, sharp cliff, while the other side is a gentle slope. This creates a beautiful contrast that is wildly dramatic any day of the year.
Later, you can soak those sore muscles at Ruisui Hot Spring. The hot springs here are Taiwan’s only carbonate springs, rich in iron, which gives the water a golden color. Locals even call them the ‘Springs of the Gods.” Take your time and give your legs the needed treatment.
Lunch today is set in a community-run organic farm restaurant in a local Amis village. You’re about to taste Taiwan’s ultimate wild flavors! The Amis people are true masters of nature. They find delicious wild plants everywhere, using the mountains and the sea as their own giant pantry. Enjoy a feast of the freshest, most authentic food you will ever eat. Think farm-to-table food at its best. After lunch, trace your way back to the hotel, where the rest of the afternoon is yours. You may choose to explore the gardens, lounge by the pool, and unwind before tonight’s included dinner.
Occupying a spacious 1.5-hectare estate beside the Honge River, the luxury Silence Manor is a boutique hot spring resort in the peaceful Ruisui countryside. It features elegantly designed rooms with private hot spring tubs, along with top-of-the-line facilities including infinity pools, saunas, and rooftop terraces, tastefully complemented by exquisite farm-to-table dining.
Approx. 60 km (37 miles), 4-6 hours biking
This morning kicks off with a journey back in time. Your first stop is the Saoba Monoliths: two massive, 3,000-year-old stone pillars left behind by the prehistoric Beinan (Peinan) culture. The mystery behind how they managed to move these multi-ton slate slabs onto a high river terrace remains unraveled, given the lack of modern tools at the time. Yet, the precision and durability of their craftsmanship continue to intrigue even the most discerning minds. Just standing here, dwarfed by these towering megaliths, is enough to leave you humbled by the sheer scale of human ingenuity. So feel free to indulge in whatever wild theory your mind throws at you.
Your next cycling leg takes you straight across the Tropic of Cancer. There’s a monument marking the exact line where the subtropics officially turn into the tropics. Once you cross over, head up into the Wuhe tea farms to unwind with sweeping views and a refreshing cup of local tea. It is worth noting that this area is famous for Mi Xiang (Honey Scented) black tea, whose distinct honey flavor happens when green leafhoppers (tiny insects) bite the tea leaves, triggering a chemical defense mechanism in the plant. The result is a naturally sweet, honey-scented tea when brewed.
After a quick cup, hop back on the bike and head south through the East Rift Valley before cutting east across the Coastal Mountain Range. The road gets really tough here with a short, punchy climb, yet rewards generously: an incredible, winding descent that runs all the way back down to the Pacific. Finish the day at a boutique hotel right on the water. Once you arrive, unwind with a drink and enjoy the coastline. If you still have some energy, head down to the beach to do some snorkeling.
Ocean Villa is a charming Bali-style villa homestay in Changbin and near Wushibi Beach (about 800 away). It nestles on Taiwan’s southern coast, surrounded by nature, and features spacious, stylish villas with modern comforts, an outdoor swimming pool with views, lush gardens, BBQ facilities, and open terrace areas where you can enjoy sea breezes and sunsets.
Approx. 78 km (48 miles), 5-7+ hours biking
Lather on the sunscreen, because today’s ride leads south right along the Pacific with some really sweet stops planned along the way.
First is Sanxiantai, an astonishing island formed by a long-extinct volcano. To get there, you cross an iconic, eight-arched pedestrian bridge designed to look like a waving Chinese dragon. Legend has it that three of the Eight Immortals from Chinese mythology actually rested on the island's rocky cliffs, leaving behind footprints you can still see today.
After checking out the island, stop for a couple of local baozi (steamed buns) for fuel and keep heading south to Dulan. While it's known as a laid-back surf hub, Dulan is also a massive cultural center for the Indigenous Amis people. It has a thriving underground art scene and an exciting coffee culture, mostly centered around an old sugar factory, which now serves as a creative arts space. On your way down, take up the chance to dive into the bright blue waters of Shanyuan Beach. Or, stop at Jialulan to see nature go wild. Millions of years of waves and moving earth have flipped, twisted, and carved the rocks into bizarre shapes that look like they belong on another planet. Wrap up your day in Taitung City. This lively town is packed with glowing night markets, colorful art alleys, and beautiful temples, some of which you can take a quick detour to see. But if your legs are completely dead from the ride, just grab a cold drink and crash by the hotel pool.
Located at the heart of downtown on Zhengqi Road, the modern 4-star international Sheraton Taitung hotel is a 19-story landmark property with 290 comfortable rooms and suites. Each one features plush Sheraton beds, rainforest showers, and a unique vantage looking over to the city or mountain. Guests here enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, sauna, steam room, and a scenic rooftop terrace. While the dining experience shines at AliHi with its popular seafood buffet, and at HOYEA, the elegant Cantonese restaurant, where fresh ingredients and refined flavors deliver memorable meals.
Savour one last breakfast, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey in Taiwan before making your own arrangements for your onward journey home.
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
- The departure point is Taipei City. You tour starts with a pickup at 12.30 p.m. at Xincheng Train Station.
- The finish point is Taitung. Your tour ends at Train station or Airport in Taitung at 9.25 a.m.
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Taipei City. The closest airport to Taipei City is Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), located approximately 40 km (25 miles) west of the city. Another option is Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA), which is much closer, situated within the city itself and primarily serves domestic and regional flights.
Taipei unveils a truly inviting subtropical climate, offering mild, temperate winters and beautifully balmy summers that beckon you to explore its vibrant streets. During the summer months, the city basks in warm, humid air with temperatures frequently resting between 30°C and 34°C, while winter provides a refreshing reprieve, gracefully hovering around a comfortable 15°C to 20°C. As you venture beyond the urban elegance to discover the majestic Taroko Gorge, you will experience a cooler, more refreshing alpine atmosphere, where the higher elevation brings crisp temperatures that are perfect for year-round adventuring. Further along the island's enchanting eastern edge, the spectacular East Rift Valley presents a lush, warm microclimate, where the gentle subtropical heat creates an idyllic, sun-drenched environment inviting you to immerse yourself in nature's most spectacular marvels.
This tour is rated 4 out of 5.
Level 1: This tour is Riding Level 1, which means you can expect to cycle an average of 15 mi (24 km) per day — and usually no more than around 25 mi (40 km) — with plenty of breaks along the way. The pace is leisurely, and the roads are mostly flat.
Level 2: This tour is Riding Level 2, which means you can expect to cycle an average of 25 mi (40 km) per day — and usually no more than around 35 mi (56 km) — with regular snack stops and photo breaks along the way. Roads are mostly flat, with occasional short climbs.
Level 3: This tour is Riding Level 3, which means you can expect to cycle an average of 30 mi (48 km) per day — and usually no more than around 45 mi (72 km) — with occasional breaks to soak up the sights. The terrain is more varied, with some uphill climbs, so you’ll need to be generally fit if you’re on a standard bike.
Level 4: This tour is Riding Level 4, which means you can expect to cycle an average of 40 mi (64 km) per day — and usually no more than 55 mi (88 km) — with occasional breaks to recharge. Expect some longer stretches and demanding uphill climbs (up to 5000 ft (1,524 m) a day), meaning you’ll need a good level of fitness if you’re on a standard bike.
Level 5: This tour is Riding Level 5, which means you can expect to cycle at least 40 mi (64 km) per day, and sometimes up to 60 mi (97 km) in a day. Expect long stretches and more demanding uphill climbs in mountainous areas, with occasional breaks to admire the view. On a standard bike, you’ll need to be up for a challenge!
In Taiwan, you’re in for a smooth ride as almost all the roads are well-maintained with designated cycling lanes. The terrain varies from gentle undulations along the East Coast and East Rift Valley to a few short but steep ascents with rewarding long descents over the Coastal Mountain Range. Over six days, you'll cover roughly 148 mi (254 km) in total. Daily rides range from a 3 mi (5 km) warm-up to scenic 47 mi (76 km) spins, with elevations varying between 102 ft (31 m) and 2,664 ft (812 m). It’s a ride packed with epic views and routes worth bragging about.
Bikes: On this tour, you’ll be riding a Cannondale Quick Disc 4 hybrid bike or Rikulau E-ILI ILI Gravel e-bike.
Helmet: Don't worry about squeezing your helmet into your suitcase. We've got clean, disinfected helmets waiting with your bike.
Handlebar bag: To carry all your essentials.
Tools and a kit for basic repairs: Should you need it.
Adventures App: Get pre-trip tips, routes, chat support, and much more. Our app is your trusty sidekick, ensuring you're never lost (unless it's intentional). Our mobile app has got you covered with audio commentary, precise route maps, and must-try food spots.
Accommodation: Our accommodations are the ultimate havens. Beds that feel like sinking into whipped cream, spaces to chill and s-t-r-e-t-c-h out those limbs, and the promise of a dip or soak in most locations to wash away the day. In cities, expect charming 3-5-star properties. Off the beaten path, we select the best places available — cleanliness is non-negotiable, and you'll always have the comfort of air conditioning and a private bathroom.
Food: Adventure works up an appetite — and Taiwan’s food scene never disappoints. Expect bowls of rich, slurp-worthy beef noodle soup, flaky scallion pancakes straight off the griddle, and the freshest seafood you can get. Along the way, we’ll sip fragrant oolong tea in the heart of Taiwan’s tea country and hunt down the best bubble tea (taste-testing required, obviously). And so much more! Got any dietary requirements? Let us know, and we’ll make sure your taste buds are as happy as your wheels!
Daily Flexibility Schedule: This tour is the perfect blend of freedom, culture, and a good dose of pedalpowered fun. Your hotels are booked in advance, so the only requirement is that you arrive at your next destination. Sleep in if you want (the rooster won’t snitch), then grab your bike and ride off when the mood strikes. Or make an early start and enjoy the afternoon exploring the next town at your leisure. No rigid timings, no set pace — just you, your bike, and the excitement of a new day’s adventure.
Luggage Transfer: We take care of luggage transfers, so you can cruise carefree and just focus on the ride. Easy, breezy, baggage-free-sy. Just bring along what you need for the day in the provided handlebar bag
Single Supplement: We have a solo rider surcharge, please contact us This option ensures you have a private room to yourself and covers all the extra costs of solo travel. Single room options are available at an additonal cost.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.