Hong Kong – your new go-to hiking destination?
When planning a trip around Hong Kong, you have probably come across stunning harbour views, night markets or Disney World. But there is something you might not have discovered yet: Located just a stone’s throw away from the hustle and the bustle of the city, magnificent nature, deserted beaches, volcanic landscapes, and secluded temples await you!
So put your hiking boots on and off we go for three amazing hiking spots in Hong Kong.
Dragon’s Back trail: The popular hike
Named the best urban hike in Asia by Time Magazine, the Dragon’s Back trail is one of the most popular and most accessible hiking spots in Hong Kong. Hiking through shaded woodland and bamboo groves, you will eventually ascend to the 284-metre-high Shek O’Peak from where you can enjoy magnificent coastal views.
Start: Mount Collinson, Shek O’Road (bus 9 from Shau Kei Wan MTR station)
Finish: Shek O’Beach Duration: 1.5-3 hours (depending on the level of fitness)
Distance: Approximately 8.5 km
Level: Easy (everyone with a minimum level of fitness)
Lantau Peak: The highest accessible hike
At around 934 m, Lantau Peak is the second highest mountain in all of Hong Kong. Offering a fantastic panorama of the surrounding area, mountains, and ocean, the view surely leaves nothing to be desired. Many people start this hike early in the morning in order to reach the summit for sunrise. As the hike up to the peak takes about two hours, you would need to depart at around 4 am to be at the top for sunrise. Still, the hike is beautiful at any time of the day!
Start: Pak Kung Au (bus 3M from Tung Chung MTR station)
Finish: The Big Buddha Duration: 2.5-3.5 hours
Distance: 4.5km
Level: moderate-hard
MacLehose Trail: The expert hike.
Named after Hong Kong’s longest-serving governor, this 100-kilometre trail stretches from Hong Kong’s west coast to the east coast and is divided into 10 stages. As McLehose trail is said to be one of the toughest hikes in Hong Kong, it can be recommended to only do some stages. Stage 2 is considered the most scenic as it overlooks the pristine beaches of Sai Wan and Ham Tin.
Start: Sai Kung Town (MTR to Diamond Hill Station, use Exit C2, take bus no. 92)
Finish: Tuen Mun Duration: 3 days (when hiking 10 hours per day)
Distance: Approximately 100 km with 10 stages
Level: hard
There are many more beautiful hiking spots to explore in Hong Kong, but these three trails should definitely be on your list. Let the adventure begin!
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