Taiwan’s cycling paths amaze the world; Canadian media praises them as comparable to those in the Netherlands and Denmark

▲ Taiwan’s cycling tourism environment impresses the world, with Sun Moon Lake’s cycling path hailed as one of the world’s top ten most beautiful cycling routes (Photo / Courtesy of Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

Following the recognition of Taipei City’s cycling infrastructure achievements by the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF),Canada’s largest western newspaper,the Georgia Straight, also commended Taiwan’s recent efforts in creating a bike-friendly tourism environment, stating it can now rival the Netherlands and Denmark—both renowned as cycling destinations.

On the 5th, the Tourism Bureau of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications held a cycling tourism promotion event in Vancouver’s Robson Square, attracting many locals to participate. “Over the past 10 years, the Taiwanese government has invested over US$1 billion in building public cycling paths across Taiwan,” said Liu Xilin, Deputy Director-General of the Tourism Bureau, to the Georgia Straight. Currently, Taiwan offers more than 80 public cycling paths for people to choose from, totaling over 3,000 kilometers in combined length.

“In Taiwan, you can take your own bicycle on buses or trains, you can also ride through urban lanes or rural roads, and when you’re tired, you can even bring it into a teahouse or café for a break,” Liu added. Some police stations even serve as temporary rest stops where you can have a drink, use the restroom, or even take a shower—it’s very convenient. In addition, Taiwan’s Sun Moon Lake cycling path has been recognized by CNN as one of the world’s top ten most beautiful cycling routes.

▲ The rugged terrain of Taroko Gorge’s cycling path tests riders’ endurance and determination, earning it a spot among the world’s most challenging cycling routes according to a French magazine. The photo shows the Nine Turns Tunnel. (Photo / Courtesy ofMyTaiwanTour Cycling Tourism Fan Page)

In addition to the Sun Moon Lake cycling path, the Taroko Gorge cycling route—hailed by the French magazine Le Cycle as one of the world’s top ten most challenging cycling paths—is also a favorite among cyclists. Stretching from 0 to 3,275 meters in elevation, it passes through tunnels and winding, narrow up-and-down curves, testing the endurance and determination of every rider.

Also present at the event, Canadian Olympic cyclist Zachary Bell and Vancouver City Councillor Kerry Jang both expressed deep impressions of Taiwan’s cycling tourism environment. Zachary Bell, who participated in an eight-day cycling competition in Taiwan last year, noted that Taiwan’s cycling routes are not only diverse but also offer unexpectedly ever-changing scenery along the way, which he found astonishing for such a small island.

Kerry Jang also mentioned that he and his wife had visited Taiwan last September and had an excellent cycling experience during their trip. He believes Taiwan truly understands how to create an outstanding cycling environment for cyclists. The Georgia Straight also concluded in its article that Taiwan might be the best cycling destination in the world.