It's heaven on wheels

For professional cyclists, mountains are perfect for an adventure.

But for the average cyclist, Hangzhou offers a pleasant, safe, not-so-energy-consuming excursion around West Lake.

Yanggongdi is parallel to the famous Sudi. Located to the west of the main lake, the 3.4 km causeway is a relatively peaceful spot among all the hot tourist spots in the area.

Yanggongdi features boulevards with tall flourishing trees, gardens that don't charge admission, smooth roads and just a few bridges.

While riding through wonderful natural scenery is a treat, you will need to take care as some vehicles take advantage of the cycle paths to avoid traffic jams.

Riding from the south end to the north, do not miss Maojiabu, a village with a beautiful lake, pavilions, bamboo bridges and restaurants offering simple but delicious local dishes such as old chicken soup with bamboo shoots.

The village looks like a Chinese ink painting, as wild ducks swim across the water and fade into the sunset.

In the west part of the village is Longjing Road, which goes through Longjing Tea field and looks like the scene from the movie Gone with the Wind, when Scarlett O'Hara stands under a tree promising she will survive the war.

A cup of spring tea in a farmer's courtyard is cozy and well worth the time.

Near the north end is Hangzhou Botanic Garden, where over 3,500 types of plants give off a fantastic fragrance. It really is a great place to lie down and enjoy the spring sunshine.

Recommended cycling route: Along Yanggongdi

Estimated duration: one hour, but enough interesting stops may cost you a whole day.

Best time/season for cycling: April to June

Bicycle rental: Hangzhou government provides good public bike renting services. Register with your ID card or passport near Jingci Templen on Nanshan Road. After finishing the route, you can return it at the station near Yue Wang Temple on Beishan Road. The first hour is for free, and is from 1 yuan per hour after the second hour. Also, many Hangzhou hotels offer bike rental.

Reminder: There are few stores along Yanggongdi, so prepare water and snacks if you don't want to dine in Maojiabu village.

xuxiaomin@chinadaily.com.cn