Nantou, Taiwan – On Saturday, Taiwan hosted its inaugural L’Étape du Tour de France, attracting approximately 2,500 cyclists from 32 countries. The event featured two legendary figures from the world of professional cycling, Christopher Froome, a seven-time Grand Tour champion, and Mark Cavendish, who made history earlier this year with his record-breaking 35th Tour de France stage win. The two cycling icons took part in the event, which was held in the stunning setting of Nantou County, located in central Taiwan.
L’Étape du Tour: An Iconic Cycling Experience
The L’Étape du Tour de France has been a fixture in the cycling world since its launch in 1993. Organized by the Amaury Sport Organisation, the event offers amateur cyclists the opportunity to experience the challenge of a Tour de France stage, tackling similar routes and conditions as the world’s top professional cyclists.
This year, the event in Taiwan featured two distinct cycling routes: a challenging 104-kilometer route and a shorter 29-kilometer course. The longer course incorporated two highly competitive sections: the Yellow Jersey Competition and King of the Mountain, where riders fought for top honors and, for the 104-kilometer riders, coveted spots in the 2025 Tour de France.
Scenic Routes Through Taiwan’s Natural Beauty
The 104-kilometer route was not just a test of physical endurance but also offered breathtaking views of some of Taiwan’s most famous landmarks. Riders passed by the Xuanguang Temple and Shuishe Pier, both located near Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan’s largest lake, which has earned a spot on CNN’s list of the “Top 10 Most Beautiful Cycling Routes in the World.” The route winds through lush mountain scenery, giving cyclists the chance to enjoy both a challenging ride and some of the most picturesque landscapes the country has to offer.
The shorter 29-kilometer route catered to cyclists who were looking to enjoy the event at a more leisurely pace while still taking in the beauty of the area.
| Event Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Nantou County, Taiwan |
| Participants | 2,500 cyclists from 32 countries |
| Featured Cyclists | Christopher Froome, Mark Cavendish |
| Routes | 104 km route, 29 km route |
| Major Landmarks | Xuanguang Temple, Shuishe Pier, Sun Moon Lake |
| Special Competitions | Yellow Jersey Competition, King of the Mountain |
A Global Celebration of Cycling
L’Étape du Tour de France is not just about the competition; it’s a celebration of the global cycling community. Riders from all corners of the world joined to share their love of cycling and experience the thrill of participating in one of the most prestigious cycling events, known for its challenging routes and festive atmosphere.
For Froome and Cavendish, the event was an opportunity to connect with cycling enthusiasts and share their expertise with the next generation of riders. Froome, a veteran of the Tour de France, and Cavendish, whose victory in July 2024 set a new record for stage wins, both drew significant crowds, with many participants eager to hear their insights into what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of cycling.
Future of L’Étape in Taiwan
The success of the first L’Étape in Taiwan marks a significant milestone for cycling in the region. With a growing cycling culture, Taiwan is quickly becoming one of Asia’s premier destinations for cycling enthusiasts. The event’s organizers are hopeful that it will become an annual tradition, further cementing Taiwan’s place on the map as a global hub for cycling tourism and competition.
As for the future of L’Étape in Taiwan, the event could inspire more international cycling events to be held in the country, making it an increasingly attractive destination for cyclists worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is L’Étape du Tour de France?
L’Étape du Tour de France is an event that allows amateur cyclists to experience the same challenging routes that professional cyclists race in the Tour de France.
2. Who were the featured cyclists in the Taiwan event?
The Taiwan edition of L’Étape du Tour was headlined by Christopher Froome, a seven-time Grand Tour champion, and Mark Cavendish, who holds the record for the most Tour de France stage wins.
3. What routes were available for cyclists in Taiwan?
There were two routes: a 104-kilometer competitive route, which featured the Yellow Jersey Competition and King of the Mountain sections, and a 29-kilometer course for more casual riders.
4. Where did the event take place?
The event was held in Nantou County, central Taiwan, a region known for its stunning Sun Moon Lake and beautiful mountain scenery.
5. What is the significance of Sun Moon Lake in cycling?
Sun Moon Lake was ranked as one of the Top 10 Most Beautiful Cycling Routes in the World by CNN, making it an ideal backdrop for the L’Étape event.
