Self-guided East Coast of Taiwan Bike Tour

Today, we come together in the evening for a pre-trip briefing.

Kaohsiung offers a variety of interesting things to do. Explore the city's vibrant arts scene at the Pier-2 Art Center, stroll along Love River, and sample delicious Taiwanese street food at Liouhe Night Market. Night markets in Taiwan come up at sundown and sell everything from local crafts to street food to clothing. We highly recommend visiting at least one night market when in Taiwan.

To avoid the traffic on today's circuit, we will organize a Van to pick you up at Kaohsiung hotel transfer to Kenting. Today, our plan includes a 40 km loop along mostly flat roads around the Southernmost Point of Taiwan, where we visit the Eluanbi lighthouse. In the afternoon, we cycle along the incredibly scenic coastline within Kenting National Park, with the opportunity to spend some time at a beach. After dinner, explore the renowned night market in the area.

Leaving Kenting, our journey takes us across the southern section of the central mountains, where we pass through enchanting Indigenous villages. We climb to an elevation of 480 meters ( 1,574 ft) before descending to the east coast, offering us our initial glimpse of the Pacific Ocean. If time permits, we can take a stroll on the Alanyi Coastal Trail which features a wonderful rocky trail and indigenous art. Our overnight stay is in a cozy coastal village, and we stay in a small family guest house. Today is a quiet evening given to admiring the natural beauty of this part of Taiwan.

As we continue our journey along the east coast, we see a vast expanse of rice paddies open up around us presenting a serene, soothing sight. Our next destination is Zhiben, one of the most famous hot springs in Taiwan. Today's ride is relatively short, covering just 40km, allowing us ample time to explore the Zhiben National Forest Recreational Area in the afternoon. Stay tonight is at a charming resort with refreshing hot springs to rejuvenate us.

Today's adventure combines the best of cycling and scenic train travel. Start your day with a refreshing 20 km ride from your hotel to Taitung Train Station. The road meanders past fields of vibrant green crops—perhaps rice paddies swaying gently in the breeze or neat rows of vegetables stretching to the horizon. From station, board a train that winds through the picturesque Rift Valley, offering stunning views of Taiwan's lush landscapes and coastline. Disembark at Chishang Train Station, and continue your journey with a ride to your hotel in Antong Hot Springs, where relaxation awaits.

The Rift Valley, considered the favorite part of the island by most Taiwanese, is likely to win your favor as well. As we cycle northwards, vast paddy fields extend as far as the eye can see. The entire day is spent on a serene country road with minimal traffic, offering picturesque views of the coastal mountains to the right and the renowned Central Mountains to the left. Taiwan boasts an impressive 270 peaks surpassing 3,000 meters in elevation, and gazing at this range while heading north is a truly delightful experience. If time permits, we may visit Hinoki village, a collection of charming Japanese-style buildings built during Japanese rule over Taiwan that are today preserved as a cultural attraction. The Japanese introduced sugar cultivation to this part of Taiwan, and we stay tonight at a 100-year old guest house originally built by the Japanese.

As we head north, we reenter the valley on our way to Hualien. Later in the day, we return to the coast, where we get our first sight of the cliffs of Taroko Gorge. Taroko Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder, known for its stunning marble canyons, towering cliffs, and crystal-clear rivers, making it one of Taiwan's most iconic and picturesque locations.

Today, you have two exciting options:

Explore the Taroko Gorge: Spend the entire day discovering the breathtaking beauty of Taroko Gorge by hiking 3-4 different trails. Highlights include the iconic Swallow Grotto, the serene Eternal Spring Shrine, and the stunning Tunnel of Nine Turns. After your hikes, enjoy a well-earned lunch at the top of the gorge, then spend the afternoon visiting other must-see spots in the area.

Hualien Local Loop: Alternatively, set out on a scenic ride around Hualien, taking in its local treasures. This loop can range from 40 to 100 km, with the option to include a ride up to the entrance of the magnificent Taroko Gorge, making for an unforgettable final day.

Depart as per your onward travel plans.