Roman Highway Cycling Route Introduction
Are you no longer interested in the gentle riverside bike paths? As a biking enthusiast, why not bravely conquer the Roman Road (County Route 118)? Starting from Luofu in the Taoyuan Fuxing District in the east, and ending at Mawu in Hsinchu County in the west, this route features not only uphill and downhill sections but also a collection of hairpin turns that will test your cornering and gear-shifting skills. The entire route is 33.83 kilometers long, making it a significant challenge of endurance! Beginning at the Yihsing Suspension Bridge and entering Luofu, the ride kicks off with a 300-meter climb that gets your heart racing. The beautiful scenery serves as the best reward; looking out toward Luofu and the Fuxing Twin Bridges, these striking structures add a vibrant touch to the magnificent mountains. After completing the first section of the climb, stop by a scenic café for a cup of Ma Gao coffee while enjoying the view of the Dahan River, replenishing your energy. Next, you will ride down the gentle slope through Jialan and Chaoyang, and when you see the gigantic rattan basket, you know you've arrived at Xikou Village, where experiencing the mouth harp and hunting culture is a great choice. Continuing onward and climbing westward through Kuihui, you'll reach Meitu Mountain at an elevation of 404 meters, where you can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the must-visit Amaping and Jiangu Island. There are restaurants and vendors nearby where you can dine and stock up on supplies. As you head toward Shimen Reservoir, spring brings cherry blossoms, while summer is accompanied by Tung flowers, creating a leisurely atmosphere along this journey filled with both sweetness and hardship. Following the road, you will pass through the Gaya Village, consisting of Gaoyao Ping, Xia Gaoyao, Zhong Gaoyao, and Shang Gaoyao settlements, to experience a century of Atayal culture. About 1.9 kilometers past the hairpin turn near the Bashang Coffee House, upon seeing the sign for Guanxi Township, you will have reached the highest point of the Roman Road at an elevation of 464 meters! After enjoying the sense of accomplishment at the summit, the next 13 kilometers downhill section allows you to effortlessly embrace the thrill of the wind, with the option to visit the historic Glutinous Rice Ancient Bridge in Mawu, savoring the charm of the Showa era.
