Sun Moon Lake → Lishan 日月潭 → 梨山

Now this is indisputably your toughest day: you're going to climb Taiwan's highest point reachable by road, Wuling Peak at 3,275 m above sea level. You can divide this queen stage into three parts: the road through the Bukai and Aowanda valley up to Ren'ai 仁愛, the full-on climbing stretch from Ren'ai to the top of Wuling, and the final way down to Lishan 梨山.

From the lake you'll pass through the remote aboriginal settlements of Bukai, and after that work your way up over desolate mountain roads alongside the Wushe Reservoir. Make sure to refuel at the convenience stores in Ren'ai. There are food options (and even a Starbucks) on the road to the top, but you'll probably feel better riding it in one go. On the last ~25 km to the top, at the top itself and the whole way after, you will have zero refuelling options!

At the top, and further

Well done reaching the very top: you can't get any higher in Taiwan! Don't miss taking a picture (with your bike) at the famous 3,275 m sign. Take a rest before you descend the steep 10 km road down to the next junction, and go through the tunnel on the left. The road descends for a little while longer, but then some more climbing needs to be done before reaching Lishan 梨山, situated at 2,000 m altitude and surrounded by tea fields.

The most iconic place to stay overnight in Lishan 梨山 is the former summer palace of president Chiang Kai-shek, the Lishan Guesthouse 梨山賓館. It makes for a perfect reward after your long day in the saddle.