Taiwan Cycling Around the Island Southern Route: A Tropical Riding Experience from Pingtung to Taitung

Introduction

The southern section of Taiwan’s cycling island tour roughly covers the route starting from Kaohsiung, passing through Pingtung and Kenting, then following Provincial Highway 26 or other provincial roads around Eluanbi, heading north into Taitung, and finally arriving at Hualien. This leg of the journey spans approximately 300-350 kilometers and typically takes 3-4 days to complete. It is the warmest, most tropical, and relatively easier section of the entire island tour (the terrain becomes flatter after Kenting).

For many riders, reaching the Eluanbi Lighthouse and posing for a photo at Taiwan’s southernmost point is one of the most symbolic moments of the entire island tour.

Kaohsiung to Kenting: The Heat of Southern Taiwan

Riding south from Kaohsiung along Provincial Highway 17’s coastline is a popular choice among riders. This route is relatively flat, but the summer sun beats down with intense UV rays, making sun protection and hydration top priorities.

Donggang is a place worth stopping at. During the Donggang Bluefin Tuna Cultural Festival (around May each year), a wide variety of seafood is abundant, allowing riders to replenish protein and store energy for the road ahead.

Kenting to Eluanbi: The Ceremony of Taiwan’s Southernmost Point

Kenting Main Street is the hub for resupply and accommodation. It is recommended to rest here for a night and head to Eluanbi early the next morning.

• Eluanbi Lighthouse: Taiwan’s southernmost point on the main island, a must-visit photo spot
• Kenting National Park: The coral reef grasslands and sea-eroded terrain at Longpan Park are breathtaking
• Nanwan Beach: If time permits, take a quick dip in the sea to cool off

From Kenting, ride around Eluanbi and head north along Provincial Highway 26 into Checheng Township, Pingtung County. This section follows the boundary between the west and east coasts, offering rich terrain variation.

Provincial Highway 26 to Taitung: The Serene Beauty of the East Coast

Some sections of the southern part of Provincial Highway 26 (Xuhai to Ansuo) were previously interrupted by rockfalls in the mountainous area, but have been gradually repaired in recent years. Still, it is advisable to check the latest road conditions before setting out.

After entering Taitung from Xuhai, the southern section of Provincial Highway 9 (Daren to Taitung City) is a mountain road that climbs over ridges, with a cumulative elevation gain of approximately 800 meters—the most physically demanding part of the southern route.

Highlights of the Taitung Section:

• Taimali Golden Needle Mountain: Spectacular views during the daylily blooming season (August-September)
• Dulan Tribe: Amis culture, organic farms, and a slow-paced vibe
• Taitung City: Beinan Cultural Park, Tiehua Village Music Hub

Environmental and Physical Considerations

Special attention is needed when riding the southern section:

• Heat injury prevention: Summer temperatures in southern Taiwan can exceed 35°C. Be sure to hydrate every 30 minutes. It is recommended to depart before 7 AM and complete most of the day’s mileage before 11 AM
• Sun protection: Long-sleeved cycling jerseys, sunscreen with SPF 50+ (reapply every 2 hours). The UV index on the Hengchun Peninsula can reach extreme levels
• Typhoon season: July-September is the peak typhoon period. Closely monitor the Central Weather Bureau’s typhoon warnings

Practical Tips

• Hengchun Old Town is the most beautiful base for accommodation on the southern section; its city walls and historic architecture pair perfectly with the pace of a cycling trip
• Taitung City has several bicycle rental and repair shops, so emergency parts replacement is not a problem
• Taitung is rich in agricultural products; Chishang bento boxes, sugar apple ice cream, and indigenous millet wine are must-try local flavors
• Consider joining the “Taiwan Cycling Island Tour” Facebook group to find the latest road condition updates and riding companions

Conclusion

What the southern section of the island tour offers riders is a sense of fulfillment, surrounded by sunshine, sea breeze, and open wilderness. From Pingtung to Taitung, every turn may reveal a breathtaking view. The vitality of tropical Taiwan—whether it’s the fresh fish at fishing harbors, the songs of indigenous tribes, or the waves of the Pacific Ocean—is fully on display along this journey. Push down on the pedals and let the warmth of southern Taiwan accompany you through this unforgettable ride.

Related Reading

• Southern Taiwan Riding: Tropical Cycling Routes in Pingtung and Kenting
• Taiwan Cycling Island Tour Northern Route: Scenery and Challenges from the North Coast to Yilan
• Pingtung Kenting Peninsula Route: Southern Taiwan Charm Riding Along the Coast from Fangliao to Eluanbi
• Kenting Peninsula Cycling Loop: Sunshine, Sea Breeze, and Slow Riding in Southern Taiwan