Hong Kong is an excellent destination for UK expats and their families. There is a great sense of international community, delicious food and a vibrant culture to be discovered.
As an expat myself living in Hong Kong, I find there are so many opportunities for exploring the surroundings on hikes and walks. Here is my list of top trails to check out if you’re an expat or retiree living in the area:
Victoria Peak Loop
Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 3.5km | Elevation: c. 100m
The Victoria Peak loop gives you one of the best 360 views of Hong Kong island and its skyscrapers. On a clear day, you can almost see Shenzhen in the distance when looking north, and when looking south, you can see the countless islands that make up this incredible city.
To access the Victoria Peak Loop, you can take the Peak Tram, which runs throughout most of the day, or bus/taxi also works. The Peak Tram is an experience in itself and well worth it!
The hike is very accessible, as it is mostly paved roads and there is little elevation. For those that want more of a challenge, they could walk up via the Morning Trail rather than take the tram/bus/taxi option, or incorporate additional elevation by going up High West, which offers breathtaking views.
My recommendation would be to go outside of holidays, as it tends to get very busy. Obviously, it is always best during a clear day!
Lantau Peak (from Ngong Ping)
Difficulty: Hard | Distance: 6km | Elevation: c. 500m
Lantau Peak is the second tallest mountain in Hong Kong, culminating at 934 meters above sea level. It will offer you breathtaking views of Lantau Island, which is the island where the airport is situated. On one side, you can see the airport and mainland Hong Kong, on the other, you can see the South China sea.
To access the hike, I would recommend first taking the cable car from Tung Chung up to Ngong Ping, where you can stock up on water and snacks. The hike ends in Pak Kung Au, where you can access a bus to go back down to Tung Chung. Tung Chung is accessible by MTR/taxis/buses.
This hike is challenging, with a lot of elevation. The hike up and down Lantau Peak involves a lot of stone steps, which is typical for Hong Kong. There is the occasional stream along the way to cool yourself down if needed. In summer, it can get warm very quickly and winter it may be quite chilly up there. The best time of the year to access this hike is during autumn or spring.
Lion Rock
Difficulty: Medium | Distance: 4-6km | Elevation: c. 250-300m
The name Lion Rock comes from the fact that the mountain is shaped like a lion head. This hike is situated in Kowloon, which is Hong Kong’s mainland. It offers stunning views of the mainland city and some of the best sunsets on a clear day.
The easiest way to access the hike is to take the MTR to Wong Tai Sin and start from there. This is a loop, so you can finish back at the MTR and make your way home.
The hike isn’t too challenging but do expect some stairs. The top of Lion Rock can be a little scary for those who don’t like heights, so this is something to be wary of. Although rare in this area, you might catch sight of monkeys if you are lucky. There is also a little convenience store at Sha Tin Pass that offers well-deserved refreshments and food after your walk.
The Eight Immortals
Difficulty: Very hard | Distance: 10km or more | Elevation: 800m
The Eight Immortals are located in Pat Sing Leng Country Park and hold their name due to the eight peaks that you will ascend along the route. This hike is located far up North, near the border with mainland China.
To access the hike, I would recommend starting in Tai Mei Tuk Village, accessible via taxi or bus. The route will take you up to the first peak (Sin Kwu Fung, 511m high) and you will then start your journey on completing the next seven peaks. The hike finishes in Hok Tau Road, where you can get a bus or taxi home.
If you are feeling particularly adventurous and want to add on a few more hours, you can go to Cloudy Hill and down Tai Po. However, expect an additional 8km and lots of elevation!
This hike is challenging, with no water points or kiosk to replenish along the way, so remember to take water and enough to eat.
Ma On Shan
Difficulty: Hard | Distance: 10Km or more | Elevation: 600-700m
Located in Ma On Shan Country Park, this hike offers you one of the best ridge lines in Hong Kong. It is also an area where from time to time you can see paragliders take off and hover in the air.
The easiest way to access the hike is via Ma On Shan MTR. From there, you make your way up a varied trail, made of road, trails and stone steps. When you get to the ridge line, you will have a stunning view over Sai Kung which is where you will descend. Sai Kung is a fishing village, with many great seafood restaurants.
This is a challenging hike, with no water replenishment along the way, so remember to bring enough water and food with you.
Dragon’s Back
Difficulty: Easy to medium | Distance: 8km | Elevation: 200m
Shaped like a dragon’s back, this easy to medium hike is situated on the east side of Hong Kong island. It offers unparallel views of Shek’o, Big Wave Bay and Tai Tam Country Park.
To access the hike, you can either get a bus or taxi to Shek’o Road. The hike starts with a short staircase ascent before continuing alongside the ridge. You can also see paragliders here when the conditions are right. The hike will finish in Big Wave Bay, where you can enjoy a surf (if you have the energy), some rest on the beach or some local food.
The hike is not too challenging but can get busy during peak season. There aren’t any refreshment points, and it is a little long, so remember to take water.
The Twins:
Difficulty: Medium | Distance: 5Km | Elevation: 450M
The Twins are located on Hong Kong island in Tai Tam Country Park. They look easy on paper but expect a lot of elevation over a short distance and many stairs. The Twins are famous for having 1,200 steps to the top!
The hike starts at Park View and is easily accessible via taxi or bus. Going up Violet Hill is a good warm up, and from there you will get great views of Tai Tam Country Park and the surrounding reservoirs. You will then make your way down to the bottom of The Twins, where you start your ascent up the 1,200 steps!
There are two Twins, 1,000 step for the first one and 200 for the next. Once at the top, you will descend to Stanley, a famous village known for its dragon boat racing. Enjoy some food and drinks there!
If you are tired, there is an exit point at the bottom of the Twins that goes to Repulse Bay.
Ham Tin/Tai Wan
Difficulty: Easy | Distance: 5Km | Elevation: 150-200M
Ham Tin and Tai Long Wan are some of the most picturesque beaches in Hong Kong. They are located on Hong Kong Mainland (Kowloon) in the far east side of the city.
You will need to get a taxi or a bus to Sai Wan Pavilion to start the hike. The hike is mostly paved, and you will go across a few beaches along your journey. There are many refreshment areas and kiosks along the way. Your journey can end in Ham Tin, where you can grab some local food. You can also continue for a short kilometre to the next beach, which is breathtaking. You will see many campers who stay on the beach at night and surfers.
To head back home, I would recommend taking the Sampan (which is a local boat) that runs most days if the conditions allow. The ride back is picturesque, and you will go round some rock formations that are listed as UNESCO world heritage.
Hiking in Hong Kong
As you can see Hong Kong is a beautiful place to live and stay active, especially in your retirement years. If you are considering becoming an expat in Hong Kong, or need any financial guidance on your journey, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.
