Island of Natural Wonders
With over 260 peaks towering above 3,000 meters (9,800 feet), ancient Indigenous hiking trails, pristine national parks, and world-class surfing conditions, Taiwan is quickly gaining recognition as a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts and wellness seekers. The island, comparable in size to Belgium or Massachusetts, offers diverse landscapes that cater to both adventure sports and serene relaxation.
Pandemic Sparks Local and International Interest
The COVID-19 pandemic played a pivotal role in boosting Taiwan’s outdoor tourism, according to Michael McCreesh, founder of Taiwan Outdoors. Domestic travel surged during border closures, leading to increased interest in hiking and cycling among younger locals. As international visitors return, Taiwan’s compact size and accessibility make it an attractive choice for those seeking adventure and wellness.
Luxury Meets Nature
Taiwan’s outdoor experience isn’t just about rugged exploration. Upscale resorts like Silks Place Taroko in Taroko Gorge combine five-star amenities with proximity to nature, offering spa treatments, gourmet dining, and access to trails like the Baiyang Trail and Hsiang-Te Pagoda.
Similarly, The Lalu Resort at Sun Moon Lake provides panoramic lake and mountain views, alongside access to top-tier cycling and hiking trails, as well as cultural experiences with the Indigenous Thao and Bunun peoples. Closer to Taipei, Volando Urai Spring Spa & Resort offers luxurious hot spring baths and scenic hikes just an hour from the city center.
Exploring National Parks and Forests
Taiwan is home to 10 national parks and 19 national forest recreation areas. Highlights include:
• Taroko National Park, renowned for its Marble Gorge and coastal cliffs, where guided kayak trips at sunrise showcase stunning ocean views.
• Yushan National Park, home to Jade Mountain, which rises nearly 4,000 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking sunrises above the clouds.
• Kenting National Park, known for tropical beaches, rock formations, and its annual music festival.
For a more secluded adventure, Dongsha Marine National Park features coral reefs, sea turtle nesting sites, and pristine atolls in the South China Sea.
Hiking and Cycling Adventures
Hiking is one of the most accessible ways to explore Taiwan. Thousands of trails, from family-friendly walks to challenging treks like the Baiyue (100 Peaks Challenge), await enthusiasts. Indigenous-guided treks, such as the Alangyi Historic Trail, provide cultural insights alongside breathtaking coastal views.
Cycling is another popular activity, with Sun Moon Lake’s 30-kilometer bike path ranked among the world’s best. While mountain biking is still developing, road cycling thrives across the island’s scenic highways.
Surfing, Rafting, and More
Taiwan’s east coast offers premier surfing, with uncrowded waves ideal for beginners and pros alike. Taiwan Surf Travel, based in Hualien City, provides packages for surf enthusiasts. The region is also a hub for whitewater rafting on the Xiuguluan River, where guided trips navigate thrilling rapids and cultural stops at Amis Indigenous villages.
A Hidden Gem for Wellness and Adventure
From luxury resorts to thrilling outdoor sports, Taiwan offers an unparalleled mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether hiking volcanic trails near Taipei or surfing the Pacific’s unbroken waves, the island is a haven for those seeking both excitement and tranquility.