Taiwan is almost purpose-built for great days in the saddle. The oval island is one of two halves; the west is defined by plains and busy cities, while the east feels wilder, greener and more elemental. The roads are quiet with the tang of the Pacific Ocean never too far away. Explore the Taroko Gorge, East Coast and East Rift Valley regions that offer a dream combination of sustained ascents, emerald green hills clothed in tea plantations, small villages and descents that are most satisfying. There are frequent small towns for a bike-friendly stop. The terrain is appealing to all levels of cyclist, with the opportunity for challenge and gorgous scenery on well-maintained roads.
Culturally, the east has maintained the Indigenous Amis, Bunun and other Austronesian peoples’ languages, festivals and traditions, as distinct from Han Chinese society. As well as excellent food, both local and western, there are night markets, hot springs and a life lived a little slower. Eastern Taiwan rewards cyclists with an understated but deeply memorable riding holiday.