Limited Launch: The Iron Horse Railway Island Tour – A Non-Strenuous Journey Around Taiwan

“Some things, if not done now, will never be done in a lifetime!” Since the domestic film "Island Etude" sparked the bicycle island tour craze, whether by scooter or bike, cycling around Taiwan has become something many young adults view as a must-do in their lives. But for seniors or young children, the physical demands of an island-wide trip have been the biggest barrier. Now, domestic travel operators and the Taiwan Bicycle Leisure Industry Development Association have jointly launched a seven-day “Two-Rail Island Tour” itinerary, combining Taiwan Railways and bicycles. With dedicated train departures, enjoying nostalgic railway boxed lunches along the way, and exploring the cultural charm of cities and towns, this tour allows those who want to cycle around Taiwan but have limited stamina to complete nearly 300 kilometers within a week-long journey—so the whole family can explore Taiwan’s top scenic spots and dream bike trails together.

This “2013 Two-Rail Island Tour · Beauty & Heart Journey – Seven Days” takes travelers through Taiwan’s most iconic scenic areas, passing through Changhua, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Kenting in Pingtung, Hualien, Taitung, and Yilan. It includes classic bike paths such as the Houfeng-Dongfeng Bike Trail and the Kaohsiung Love River Harbor Line, letting you enjoy nighttime rides by the harbor. Also featured is Taiwan’s only national-level bike highway in Pingtung, where you can experience Hakka culture, challenge Kenting’s Ping’e Highway, ride the beautiful Dapi Irrigation Ring Trail in Chishang, admire the stunning Lotus Pond and Seven Star Lake in Hualien, explore Taroko National Park, cruise the Dongshan River Bike Path, ride along Yilan’s riverside trails, and finish the journey by pedaling from Fulong Bike Path to the northeasternmost tip of Taiwan—San Diego Cape. Along the way, you’ll not only take in Taiwan’s long history and ancient relics, but also wander through hidden rural trails, enjoy nostalgic railway meals, and stay in star-rated boutique hotels.

Lin Shih-Hong, Chairman of the Taiwan Bicycle Leisure Industry Development Association, said, “As long as you can ride a bike, you can join. Ages 8 to 80 are all welcome.” Many people dream of cycling around Taiwan but worry about the challenges of preparation and physical endurance, causing the dream to fade away. This year’s Two-Rail Island Tour uses trains and buses to transport bikes and participants between points, helping travelers build up energy. With guides and professional cycling coaches accompanying them, participants can deeply explore local cultures by bike.

This year’s “2013 Two-Rail Island Tour · Beauty & Heart Journey – Seven Days” offers two sessions on July 14 and August 11, each with a limit of 120 participants. Prices start from a minimum of NT$25,900. For detailed itineraries, visit: http://goo.gl/wWmeu.

 

 

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