There’s more than one way to enjoy Hong Kong—hike up Tai Mo Shan to admire the sea of clouds, visit High Island Reservoir to witness nature’s artistry, or delve into the immigrant history of Victoria City. Still think of Hong Kong only as a food and shopping paradise? Many would find it hard to believe that this city also offers hiking and cycling adventures. In fact, over 70% of Hong Kong’s land area is countryside, with green spaces just a bus ride or ferry trip away from the urban core.
From November this year to March next year, the Hong Kong Tourism Board is launching a new round of the “Discover Hong Kong’s Countryside” promotion, recommending a variety of distinctive hiking and cycling routes to encourage travelers to deeply experience the city’s natural beauty and scenic landscapes.
To help visitors gain a deeper impression of Hong Kong’s natural scenery, the Hong Kong Tourism Board has invited several renowned photographers to guide the way, showcasing breathtaking views of the territory’s great outdoors through their lenses. Travelers can obtain the newly published “Hong Kong Hiking & Biking Guide” from the Hong Kong Tourism Board, using it to explore the territory’s magnificent natural and geological attractions. The guide is divided into three main sections: “Tracing History,” “Capturing Natural Beauty,” and “Discovering Geological Wonders,” featuring a total of ten recommended hiking routes related to these themes. Each route includes details on access, duration, difficulty level, and other useful tips, helping travelers choose the perfect path based on their preferences and fitness levels. Additionally, the guide introduces two cycling routes, offering another perspective to discover Hong Kong.
The “Colonial Heritage Route” under “Tracing History” takes travelers up iconic Victoria Peak, once a summer retreat for governors and dignitaries. Along the way, you’ll learn about Hong Kong’s colonial-era history and explore the legacy of old Victoria City. The observation deck on Lugard Road offers sweeping views of the majestic Victoria Harbour skyline, before you venture into lush woodlands and end your journey at the University of Hong Kong—the alma mater of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of modern China. The “Ancient Villages in the Woods Route” leads hikers through Plover Cove Country Park, from the streams of Bride’s Pool to traditional Hakka villages like Sam A Village and Wu Kau Tang, where you can admire the scenery while soaking in the rich history and culture of these rural areas.
“Capturing Natural Beauty” highlights several photography hotspots that will delight shutterbugs, such as hiking Hong Kong’s highest peak—Tai Mo Shan—to shoot the sea of clouds or the dazzling city lights; heading to Tai Tung Shan to photograph the silvergrass sea or a stunning sunset; or visiting areas around Tung Chung, Tai O, and Silvermine Bay Beach on Lantau Island to capture the striking contrast between people and nature against blue skies and white clouds.
The “Discovering Geological Wonders” section focuses on the protected Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark. The “Geological Treasures Route” recommends the eastern dam of High Island Reservoir along Section 1 of the MacLehose Trail, where you can see nature’s artistic masterpieces, including hexagonal rock columns, sea caves, and sea stacks. You can also visit Hong Kong’s easternmost island—Tung Ping Chau—to witness its rare, naturally formed shale formations and diverse marine life.
From November to March next year, travelers can pick up the “Hong Kong Hiking & Biking Guide” at Hong Kong Tourism Board visitor centers or download it from the official website.
