Penghu Cycling Travel: Island Charm and Routes Across Townships

Introduction

Unlike Taiwan’s main island, Penghu has no towering mountain ranges to block the way—the highest point across the entire archipelago barely exceeds 70 meters above sea level. For cyclists, this is a flat riding paradise set against a backdrop of “sea and sky in one hue.” Different from the challenges of mountain terrain, the joy of cycling in Penghu lies in feeling the strong sea breeze, marveling at the unique geological landscape of basalt columns, and seeking out the most authentic island life in the alleys of small fishing villages.

Main Cycling Routes in Penghu

Magong City: Where History Meets the Harbor

Magong is the seat of Penghu County and the starting point for most visitors arriving on the islands. A city ride can be planned around a historical and cultural theme:

• Tianhou Temple: The oldest Mazu temple in all of Taiwan (built in 1604). The statue of Mazu enshrined inside is remarkably well preserved, and the temple square is the heart of Magong city life.
• Central Old Street: A 400-year-old street with well-preserved stone paving. Both sides sell Penghu specialties—peanut brittle, Penghu cactus ice, and brown sugar cake.
• Beichen Market: A seafood market bustling from five or six in the morning, where freshly unloaded catches are laid out directly on the ground for sale—the most vibrant slice of everyday Penghu life.

Penghu Main Island North Loop: The Spectacular Landscape of Basalt and Stone Weirs

The North Loop route departs from Magong, heading north along the Taiwan Strait side, passing through Huxi Township and into the basalt terrain of the northern region.

Kuibi Mountain is the highlight of the North Loop—at low tide, the seabed reveals a gravel path connecting to a small island, which locals call the “Penghu version of Moses parting the sea.” When the tide recedes, you can walk across to the islet of Chiyu. The scenery here is extraordinary, often drawing crowds of photographers waiting for the best light before sunset.

Continuing north, you’ll reach Aimen Beach, a two-kilometer stretch of white sand that is the longest natural beach in Penghu. Plenty of seafood restaurants line the beach, making it an ideal stop for a lunch break and refueling.

Xiyu Loop: Penghu’s Most Beautiful Basalt Exhibition Hall

From Magong, you can ride directly across the跨海大橋 (one of Taiwan’s longest sea-crossing bridges) to Baisha Island, then cross a second bridge into Xiyu (Yuweng Island). Xiyu’s basalt formations are the best-preserved in all of Penghu—the basalt column clusters around Dayeguo and Erkan Village rise over 20 meters tall, striking in their grandeur.

Xitai Ancient Fort is a cannon fortress built during the Qing Dynasty to defend the Taiwan Strait. It is in excellent condition, and the view from the fort ruins overlooking the sea is utterly breathtaking. Circling Xiyu covers about 25 km and can be completed in half a day. It’s recommended to pair the ride with an afternoon sunset viewing at the western tip of Xiyu.

Practical Tips

Bicycle Rental

• Several rental shops in Magong City offer city bikes, e-bikes, and road bikes. E-bikes are well-suited for sections with headwinds from the sea breeze.
• The main ferry terminals (Jibei, Qimei, Wangan) also have a small number of bikes available for rent.

Wind Direction Strategy

• Penghu experiences strong sea winds year-round—southwesterly in summer (June–September) and northeasterly monsoons in winter (November–February).
• When planning routes, try to make the prevailing wind your primary direction of travel, avoiding long headwind stretches that drain your energy.

Seasonal Recommendations

• Best: April–June (stable weather, lighter winds).
• Summer: Hot, but excellent water clarity—ideal for combining with snorkeling.
• Winter: Strong northeasterly monsoons; only suitable for experienced riders.

Conclusion

Cycling in Penghu is a philosophy of measuring the ocean at bicycle speed. Here there is no oppression from high mountains, only the liberation of a vast horizon; no urban clamor, only the stillness of fishing villages and the sound of waves. Bring a lightweight bike by plane or ferry to Penghu, and let the island’s wind carry you to every unexpected corner of beauty.

Related Reading

• Penghu Archipelago Cycling Trip: A Unique Experience of Island Charm and Ocean Scenery
• Taiwan Outlying Islands Riding: Cycling Travelogues of Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu
• Penghu Cycling Guide: Flat Island Riding and Fishing Village Culture
• Taiwan Outlying Islands Cycling: Route Features of Penghu, Kinmen, and Green Island