Taiwan Nature Travel: Rails, Hikes and Coastal Rides
Beyond the neon hum of Taipei, a landscape of expansive mountain ranges and rugged coastlines unfolds. It is little wonder that 16th century Portuguese sailors dubbed the island ‘Ilha Formosa’ (‘the Beautiful Island’). Moving from the tropical wetlands of Tainan up into the high mountains, and finishing on the salt sprayed cliffs of the northern coast, your Taiwanese adventure awaits.
Taiwan’s small footprint ensures that wilderness is never far away. While day trips are effortless, an overnight stay in the mountains is essential for those seeking a deeper connection to the land. Our journey begins in the south, in the historic heart of Tainan. Here, the Sicao Green Tunnel in Taijang National Park offers a tranquil escape into Taiwan’s ‘green tunnel’. Drifting along the water on a traditional raft, wearing the traditional bamboo rice hat you’ve always wanted to wear, you are enveloped by a lush mangrove canopy. Famous for when the light hits the water at the perfect angle, the reflection of the low lying boughs creates the “Angel’s Kiss,” a perfect lip-shaped silhouette of greenery.
Located in Chiayi County, the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area is the jewel of the central highlands. Accessible via shuttle bus or the red forest railway, Alishan is Taiwan’s most celebrated destination. On clear days, Yushan (Jade Mountain) dominates the horizon from the Ogasawara Mountain Lookout. The park offers diverse trails for all fitness levels, from the Giant Tree Cluster Trail, a gentle boardwalk through millennial-old cypresses, to more demanding ascents. Keep an eye out for the unique ‘Three Generations Tree’ and fascinating Rock Macaque Monkeys. If you’re driving, stop at Alishan-win Tea House for spectacular views of the valley’s tea plantations and delicious oolong teas.
Heading north, the greenery gives way to the raw beauty of Heping Island Geopark in Keelung City, where the Pacific has carved the sandstone into surreal mushroom and animal shaped formations. The geological history is captured in the many fossils that are written on the sea rocks. A beautiful ocean pool overlooking Keelung Harbour entices visitors in the summer. Conclude your journey in the nearby hills of Jiufen. This former gold mining town is famous for inspiring cinematographers and features cobble-stoned lantern-lit alleyways, quirky market food stalls and coffee houses. Perched on the top of a mountain, it’s a hub for coastal ridge hiking and a great workout for the glutes on the many paved stone steps!
For those looking to see the island at a faster pace, a friend recently returned from a cycling tour with glowing reviews. As a global leader in bike manufacturing, Taiwan has invested heavily in world class cycling infrastructure. He noted that the roads feel remarkably safe, with designated lanes and drivers who are exceptionally considerate of cyclists. His 460 km route traced the coast from Hengchun to Hualien, culminating in a spectacular day ride through the marbled canyon of Taroko Gorge.
Whether by rail, on foot, or on two wheels, Taiwan’s natural world promises endless waves of wonder for those seeking adventure.
