Against the stunning backdrop of Taiwan's largest alpine lake, cycling legend Mark Cavendish's return to Sun Moon Lake as L'Étape 2024 Taiwan is about to unfold. , Scheduled for November 30, 2024, the event is about to transform this serene tourist attraction into an arena where amateur cyclists can experience the thrill of Tour de France-caliber racing. This prestigious international cycling challenge has already captured global attention, drawing participants from 25 countries who will compete for a coveted spot in the 2025 L'Étape Championship Race. The event gains additional star power with the confirmed attendance of cycling legend Mark Cavendish.
Set in the heart of Nantou County, this remarkable event offers more than just a race—it's a celebration of cycling culture where scenic routes merge with professional race standards. From the challenging 104km race category that tests endurance through mountain routes to the more accessible 29km ride category perfect for cycling enthusiasts, participants will experience a course that CNN has ranked among the world's top 10 most beautiful cycling routes. As riders navigate past iconic landmarks like Xuanguang Temple and through the culturally rich Ita Thao area, they'll discover why Sun Moon Lake has become a beacon for sustainable tourism and eco-friendly events in Asia.
Who is Mark Cavendish?
One of the best sprinters in the world, Mark Cavendish, also known as the "Manx Missile," is a legendary track cyclist who recently retired earlier this month with a victory at the Tour de France Singapore Criterium on November 10th. With specializations in Madison, points race, and scratch race disciplines, Cavendish's legendary career includes reca ord-breaking 35 stage wins in the Tour de France, 55 Grand Tour stage victories, one World Road Race Championship victory, and more.
During his previous visit to Sun Moon Lake, Cavendish praises the region's natural beauty and the quality of the cycling infrastructure. He noted that the Sun Moon Lake Bikeway offers a unique blend of challenging terrain and scenic vistas.
Cavendish's involvement extends beyond just participating in the event. He has engaged with local cyclists, sharing his expertise and inspiring the next generation of Taiwanese riders. His interactions with the Thao aboriginal community have also helped to spotlight the region's rich cultural heritage.
Returning to Taiwan after four years of participating in the Tour of East Taiwan 2020. The announcement of his attendance as a participant has been a significant draw for L'Étape Sun Moon Lake Taiwan, elevating the event's profile on the international stage.
His presence at Sun Moon Lake not only attracts cycling enthusiasts but also provides a unique opportunity for amateur riders and fans to share the road with a cycling legend. The presence of cyclists like Cavendish at L'Étape Sun Moon Lake Taiwan demonstrates the event's growing importance on the global cycling calendar.
L'Étape 2024 Sun Moon Lake Taiwan Event Overview
L'Étape, meaning "stage" in French, began in 1993 as a way for amateur cyclists to experience Tour de France routes during the main tour's rest days. L'Étape Sun Moon Lake Taiwan by Tour de France is scheduled for November 30, 2024. It is part of the World L'Étape series that is also serving as a qualifier for the 2025 L'Étape Championship Race. This race offers two distinct routes:
Source: L'Étape by Tour de France Website
The Ride | 104 km | +1500M elevation: Beginning and ending at the Xiangshan Visitor Center, the cyclists will experience a diverse terrain that starts at around 700 meters elevation with a total elevation gained of 1500M over the course of the race. The course initially treats riders to a gentle descent over the first 26 kilometers before testing their mettle with several challenging climbs, including two Category 2 ascents. The route strategically incorporates two timed sections - a 9-kilometer (+100m elevation gained) stretch around the 52-kilometer mark and an 11-kilometer (+200m elevation gained) section near the 76-kilometer point—adding an element of competitive excitement.
Source: L'Étape by Tour de France Website
The Ride | 29 km | +650M elevation: This more accessible course features a total elevation gain of 650 meters, offering cyclists a beautiful journey that also begins and ends at the Xiangshan Visitor Center. The route maintains a relatively consistent elevation between 700 and 900 meters, with one notable dip around the first third of the course, followed by a gentle rolling terrain that reaches its peak at approximately 950 meters. Unlike its longer counterpart, this course is designed to be more approachable while still providing a taste of professional cycling experience.
Schedule & Requirements
The event maintains strict timing to ensure smooth operations:
Race Day Schedule
- Check-in: 5:00-5:30 AM
- 104km Race Start: 6:00 AM
- 29km Ride Start: 6:20 AM
Participant Requirements
All riders must be at least 16 years old and in good physical condition. Those under 18 need parental consent. The 104km race has a 6-hour time limit, while the 29km ride must be completed within 3 hours.
Safety, Support & Security
The event meets professional race standards in terms of safety, support, and security. It includes features such as chip timing, police escorts, traffic control, mechanical support, medical assistance at key points, and standby medical teams ready to help. Such infrastructure ensures a safe and seamless experience for participants of all skill levels during this challenging adventure.
Support Stations
- Three feeding stations at 32 km, 57.5 km, and 69.5 km
- Technical assistance is available at the 69.5km mark
About Sun Moon Lake: Taiwan’s Alpine Jewel
Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan’s largest alpine lake, provides a stunning backdrop for L'Étape Taiwan. Located in the heart of Asia, Taiwan, Nantou County, the name of the lake comes from its unique shape, with its eastern section resembling the sun and its western part a crescent moon. At 748 meters above sea level, it covers approximately 7.93 square kilometers. Surrounded by jade mountains, Sun Moon Lake is the ancestral home of the Thao aboriginal tribe, offering a serene landscape that has charmed visitors for generations.
Sun Moon Lake's selection as the venue is particularly significant as it has been recognized among the top 10 most beautiful cycling routes in the world by CNN. The race route showcases several notable landmarks and cultural sites:
- Xuanguang Temple: Perched on the lake's shore, this temple offers serene Zen ambiance and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Ci'en Pagoda: Built by Chiang Kai-shek in memory of his mother, this iconic structure provides breathtaking vistas of the lake and surrounding landscape.
- Ita Thao Village: Home to the indigenous Thao people, this lakeside settlement allows participants to experience authentic aboriginal culture and cuisine.
As Taiwan’s leading tourist destination, Sun Moon Lake draws millions annually with its tranquil waters, peaceful mountain, and vibrant cultural experiences, making it a must-visit location for those seeking to explore Taiwan’s natural and cultural wonders.
Sustainable Tourism Initiatives
L'Étape Sun Moon Lake Taiwan not only showcase world-class cycling but also demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. The event aligns with Taiwan and Sun Moon Lake's broader initiatives for eco-friendly tourism and low-carbon development.
The Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area has adopted a "low-carbon footprint water, land, and air tourism" approach, integrating sustainable practices into its tourism offerings. This commitment is reflected in the L'Étape event through various measures:
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Use of electric vehicles: The event organizers prioritize electric cars for support and logistics.
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Promotion of cycling: By its very nature, the event encourages the use of bicycles (a zero-emission mode of transport)
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Waste reduction: Efforts are made to minimize waste generation during the event with proper recycling and disposal systems in place.
The Sun Moon Lake area itself has been developing as a hub for sustainable eco-tourism. Local accommodations, such as the Fleur de Chine Hotel, have integrated energy-saving and carbon-reducing measures into their operations. These practices complement the event's environmental goals and provide participants with eco-friendly lodging options.
The event is also serving as a platform for environmental education. Participants and spectators are exposed to the area's natural beauty, fostering an appreciation for beauty and opening up a conservation. The Sun Moon Lake Tourism Union (Sun Moon Lake Plus) has been instrumental in developing eco-tourism attractions that showcase the region's abundant cultural and natural resources.
L'Étape Sun Moon Lake Taiwan's environmental commitment extends beyond the event day. It supports ongoing initiatives to maintain and improve the area's cycling infrastructure (Sun Moon Lake Bikeway). This continuous development encourages year-round sustainable tourism and promotes cycling as a low-impact way to explore the region.
By combining competitive cycling with environmental stewardship, L'Étape Sun Moon Lake Taiwan is setting a positive example for sporting events worldwide. It demonstrates that international competitions can be conducted in harmony with nature, promoting both athletic excellence and ecological responsibility.
Conclusion
The convergence of Mark Cavendish's legendary status and Sun Moon Lake's breathtaking alpine scenery sets the stage for what promises to be an extraordinary international cycling challenge. As the professional cycling experience meets Taiwan's premier tourist destination, L'Étape Sun Moon Lake Taiwan transcends the traditional boundaries of a mere racing event. The carefully designed routes, whether tackling the ambitious 104km race category or the more accessible 29km ride category, offer participants an unparalleled opportunity to experience the region's stunning bikeways and cultural richness.
The event's comprehensive infrastructure, from strategically placed support stations to professional-grade mechanical assistance, reflects the organizers' commitment to maintaining Tour de France standards while embracing local elements. Participants will find themselves immersed in a unique blend of competitive cycling and cultural exploration as the route winds past significant heritage locations like Xuanguang Temple and through the vibrant Ita Thao area, home to the region's aboriginal culture.
What sets this event apart is its dedication to sustainable tourism principles. The marriage of world-class cycling with environmental protection initiatives demonstrates how major sporting events can contribute to green transportation advocacy while preserving natural scenery. As cyclists traverse the scenic routes around Nantou County, they become part of a larger movement that celebrates both athletic achievement and ecological responsibility.
In Cavendish’s farewell statement earlier this month, he expressed that he had achieved everything possible on the bike and was ready for his next chapter. Will he be adding another victory on top of his 35 stage wins in the Tour de France? Let’s find out soon!
