Urban Etude: Top 10 Most Scenic Cycling Routes in Taipei and New Taipei

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
 

Whether it's for commuting or just wanting to enjoy a leisurely ride during the holidays at your own pace, cycling has become one of the most popular national pastimes. It's not only environmentally friendly but also allows you to freely weave through alleys, fields, and countryside to discover your own beautiful scenery — nothing could be better. Below is a list of the top ten most popular cycling paths in Taipei and New Taipei. Seize a break in your busy life and set off on your own urban etude anytime you want!

● Old Caoling Tunnel (from Gongliao Yenliao to Fulong Coastal Area)

The "Old Caoling Tunnel," which has just been shortlisted for the 2015 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards — often referred to as the Nobel Prize of tourism — was originally a railway tunnel from the Japanese colonial period. Due to railway electrification and the inadequacy of single-track usage, it was transformed by the Northeast Coast & Yilan National Scenic Area Administration and officially opened in 2009. The former railway tunnel was converted into a cycling tunnel. While cycling here, you can sometimes hear the rumbling sound of trains, adding a touch of retro charm.

● Bali Left Bank Bicycle Path

At the Bali Left Bank Bicycle Path, cycle along the riverside and enjoy the beautiful riverside views. Along the way, you’ll often come across lush green lawns and small gardens, creating such a relaxing atmosphere that it temporarily makes you forget the worries of daily life.

● Erchong Ring Cycling Path

Located in Sanchong District, New Taipei City, the Erchong Floodway was originally used for flood discharge from the Shimen Reservoir. It features the Greater Taipei Metropolitan Park, the largest riverside park in New Taipei, and runs past attractions such as the Sunshine Canal and Breeze Canal, making it a great leisure spot for cycling enthusiasts.

 
● Xindian River Bicycle Path
The Xindian River Bicycle Path offers smooth roads and a relaxed pace. Cyclists can follow the Xindian River, explore the scenic Bitan Suspension Bridge area, and for those with more energy, continue on to either the left or right bank of the Dahan River Bicycle Path, cycling all the way to Yingge and beyond.

● Guandu Nature Park Bicycle Path

The Guandu Bicycle Path is one of the earliest dedicated cycling paths. Its western endpoint is Guandu Temple, then it continues eastward along the Guandu Flood Prevention Levee to the Baxian Fude Temple. A 90-degree turn north takes you across the Guandu Plain all the way to the south side of the Beitou Zhongyang North Road MRT tracks. Visitors who don’t have their own bicycles can start at Guandu Temple and rent bikes or tandem bikes directly.