Welcome to Taiwan, also known as Formosa – The Beautiful Island, a place that defies easy definition. This adventure takes you well-away from the industrial center in the West to the sparsely populated and traditional north east coast, where you will discover for yourself what it really means to be “Made in Taiwan”.

You will explore on a network of hundreds of kilometres of quiet country roads through rice paddies and tiny hamlets, and past countless temples. You will learn Taiwanese Tea Ceremony, and bathe in mineral hot and cold springs. You will experience both rural and urban Taiwanese culture, and can try to fathom the Taiwanese spirit as you wander through bustling night markets, or participate in a favourite national pastime as you head out on the town to sing some karaoke. If the cycling we have planned for you is not enough, you will have the option to ride more challenging routes through the mountains, and will enjoy the exploration of Taroko Gorge, carved into the marble and jade of the Lifu River valley, whose name means “magnificent and splendid”. This could refer to the gorge itself, or the view of the Pacific Ocean from its mouth. We suggest you come and create your own impression.

Route Notes: This is an unusual adventure that will be most appreciated by riders interested in an unusual, culturally-different experience. The food, hotels, and customs differ from Western norms in refreshing ways. The route includes both flat and hilly riding, and exhilarating hiking of moderate challenge.

Start: Taipei CKS international airport at noon (by special arrangement), or your hotel in Taipei 13:00, day 1.

Finish: Taipei, 13:00, Day 8.