While you might think about Hong Kong as a big city, there’s more to it than that. Head out to
somewhere like Sai Kung national park and you’ll never have felt further from the skyscrapers
and hustle and bustle of the city. And the best thing? Because Hong Kong is so small, you can
enjoy a range of outdoor activities and be back in the city in time for dinner.

Head to somewhere like Shek O beach or the UNESCO Geopark of Long Ke Wan Beach and
have a go at the fastest-growing board sport in the world: stand up paddle boarding.  

In this post, we’ll take a look at the essential SUP accessories you’ll need for paddle boarding.
Remember, there’s no need to bring them with you - you’ll be able to rent them in Hong Kong.

SUP Paddle and Board
Let’s start with the absolute essentials for SUP. You won’t get very far at all without a paddle
and a board! If you’re just starting out, all arounders are great for those planning to stay close to
the shore or paddling on a tranquil lake. You can recognise them by their smooth, rounded
curves. A race or touring board has a pointy end and can be quite narrow. Make sure if you’re
going for one of these that you can be stable on it. Boards can be hard or inflatable.
The good news about paddles is that they’re cheaper. You should expect to spend roughly 20%
of your board price on your paddle. A good paddle will have a T-Grip handle where you can rest
your wrist and adjust it to your height. A lightweight aluminium blade (or carbon if money’s no
object) will seamlessly propel you through the water (hopefully), no matter your level of SUP
experience. 

​SUP Pump
If you have a hard paddle board, you don’t need to worry about this one. However, if you’ve got
an inflatable SUP, you’re going to need a pump. Happily, you can get an electric pump which
will mean minimum effort for you to have a fully inflated board. Usually, board inflation takes
somewhere between 7 and 15 minutes depending on the quality and durability of your SUP
pump. Make sure to store it somewhere safe on the beach while you are out paddling!

Hip Pack/Dry Bag
Can’t decide what to leave on shore while you SUP? Well, now you don’t have to with a hip
pack. In there, you’ll be able to store your phone, wallet, sunscreen, and an extra layer.
Usually sealed with zippers, the best hip packs are completely waterproof so you can paddle
without worrying that your belongings will get water-damaged.
If a hip pack isn’t enough for you to store everything - perhaps you’re taking a camera or a
picnic with you to stop on a remote island, there’s an answer for that too. A dry bag will do
everything a hip pack will, but you can fit more in. You can use this for other water activities too,
such as swimming or surfing. 

Waterproof Gadget Bag
Much like a hip pack or an inflatable bag but much smaller, a waterproof gadget bag is perfect if
you want to document your SUP sessions. It can usually fit a smartphone and some cash or
cards. Why not turn back to the sands of Lo Lo Shing Beach and take a photo of the fishermen’s
boats all lined up on the white sand? A handy thing about a waterproof gadget bag is that
they’re see through, so you don’t need to take your phone out of the bag to use the camera.
Great for those who are a little unsteady on their boards! 

Floatable Sunglasses
The crystal-clear blue waters of the South China Sea are one of the big reasons to try SUP in
Hong Kong. However, on a really sunny day they can be super-reflective and disorientating. Get
a pair of floatable sunglasses that you can comfortably adjust to your head with a flexible strap.
Not only will floatable sunglasses help you to see better, but they’ll protect your eyes from
harmful UV rays. 

Waterproof earphones
Sometimes all you want to hear is the sound of the waves lapping against the shore… and
that’s fine. However, if you’re taking a break on your SUP, you might fancy listening to a
podcast. Or, if you’re really paddling hard you might want some motivational music to get you up
to speed. A pair of waterproof earphones are small and can fit into your waterproof gadget bag
so you can be connected while out on your board.
Do make sure that if you’re using waterproof earphones that you’re doing so safely and are
always aware of your surroundings. Especially if you’re out in the open ocean! 

​Wetsuit
This one isn’t always necessary, especially in the warm waters of the South China Sea. But hey,
not everyone wants to show off their bodies! Should you be SUPing in rainy weather or you just
want that extra level of protection, a wetsuit provides an extra layer of insulation. Wetsuits are
also the perfect sunblock… you won’t have to worry about those tricky to reach part of your
backs burning if you’re wearing one of these! 

Final Thoughts on the top paddle boarding
essentials for your beach activities in Hong Kong
Now that you know what you need for your paddle-boarding adventures, you might want some
better ideas of where to go in Hong Kong. If that’s the case, check out Wild Hong Kong to find
out about the best beaches in Hong Kong and adventure tours that you can do in the city.

Getting to the islands is not straight forward, but that is what makes it all the more alluring. The most common way to reach Double Heaven is by a ride on the ferry from Shau Tau Kok to Kat O, however as this falls within the Closed Border Area, an access permit is required. Alternatively, you can join a private island tour to charter a boat or get a water taxi from Wong Shek Pier. The number 94 and 96R KMB buses go to Wong Shek Pier (96R operates on weekends only). For the more intrepid, one can sail or kayak to the region and utilize many of the secluded anchorages the archipelago has to offer.
The primary port of call for all that reach the 4 main islands of Double Heaven is the sleepy village of Kat O. Located on Crooked Island, it is the only major settlement of note in the area and one could easily spend the best part of an hour wondering the laneways; crumbling Hakka houses interspersed with shade yielding Banyans. Enjoy a waterfront stroll and keep an eye out for the three 19th century era cannons, aptly pointed northwards towards the large container port of Yantian. Often visible, this behemoth on the Chinese Mainland provides a compelling juxtaposition between the traditional ways of the Hakka people and the rise of Modern China across the waters.

​From Kat O, there are a few short hikes you can pursue across opposite ends of Crooked Island; the most worthwhile being a shorter trail leading Northeast across to a large sandy beach which has views across Mirs Bay. Make sure to indulge yourself with a decent meal and grab fluids in Kat O, as there are next to no such amenities anywhere else. If you have your own boat or kayak, then Kat O serves as a worthy port of call before venturing to more remote areas of the archipelago.

​For those who are not so fussed about the logistics of venturing offshore and are happy to get a taster for the area, another option is to visit the coastal portion of Double Heaven near Lai Chi Wo Village. One can reach Lai Chi Wo overland by hiking from Wu Kau Tang in Plover Cove Country Park (take green minibus no. 20R departing at Tai Po Market MTR station to Wu Kau Tang), or by taking a ferry (Sunday and Public Holidays only) from Sha Tin (Depart from Ma Liu Shui: 09:00am. Depart from Lai Chi Wo: 15:30pm. Fare: $50 single ticket, $80 return ticket).

​The hike from Wu Kau Tang takes you in an Easterly direction over a pass to reveal fantastic views over the entire Double Heaven area, before descending to the coast. Venturing further afield, there are many trails in Plover Cove Country park to choose from. If taking the ferry from Ma Liu Shui, enjoy the views of Tolo Harbour en route before rounding the headland to enter a new landscape of tranquil channels lined with red rocks (unique to this part of HK). Be sure to catch the final boat leaving the island for return to the mainland at 15:30pm, unless hiking back or camping overnight stay is more your cup of tea. Camping in HK can be an awesome experience; there are a few great options around Plover Cove Country Park, the ‘Sam A Chung’ campsite being the best situated of them.
​
Among the list of Hong Kong’s many regions, the castaway islands of Double Heaven are worth the trip at least once. The adventure to and from Double Heaven is as much an attraction as the being there is.

In late March 2020, Wild HK Founder Rory Mackay embarked on a 5 day Kayaking and camping expedition with Mark Agnew from the South China Morning Post.

The primary aim was to make a tour of the archipelago which creates Double Heaven. Located in the far flung northeastern corner of the New Territories adjacent to the Chinese mainland, it would require us to cover the best part of 140KM in order to achieve this (starting and finishing in Sai Kung).

​​A world onto its own, Double Heaven by any nations' standards would be considered a remote and relatively pristine place - all the more special for us to visit, given this was in Hong Kong. With all this said however; the adventure (rugged scenery, challenging seas and wilderness beachside camps) either side of exploring Double Heaven was just as exceptional, if not more so.

After a shorter half-day on Day 1 in order to get away from Sai Kung town, Day 2 was a mammoth 39KM paddle around the greater Sai Kung Peninsula and across the the mouth of Tolo Harbour to reach Double Island.

After a big second day, we earned the privilege on day 3 to go at a more casual pace and explore the various passages of Double Heaven. Time was taken off to explore the charming village of Kat O and restock supplies, before heading south and camping overnight on Port Island. 

A huge effort followed on day 4 as sea conditions were less hospitable than previous days. It was graft paddling upwind much of the way and most satisfying to arrive at Bluff Island for a short hike and one of the best sunsets I've ever seen (no joke, have seen plenty)! The place was paradise; icing sugar sand, luminescent plankton, no plastic and a decent stash of fire wood.

Last day of the trip we made a detour of sorts to explore sea arches and caves on Basalt, Bluff and Jin Islands, before completing formalities.

Although we don't take this trip as a guided tour, or necessarily advocate getting to Double Heaven in the manner we did (it is hard work and requires ocean going experience) - I highly recommend for anyone who regards themselves as a real 'Hong Konger' to visit this remote enclave at least once in your life. Other than kayaking or taking your own boat out there, one can take a ferry to Kat O on weekends and Public Holidays.

Hong Kong is known for being a diverse, massive metropolitan city. Some of the most breathtaking
skyscraper views and endless stores can be found here, but did you know it’s also full of gorgeous
beaches? That’s right – if you’re looking for the perfect vacation spot for the hotter months, Hong Kong
is it.
​

1. You Get the Best of Both Worlds

Sometimes it can be difficult to choose whether you want to spend your vacation in a bustling city or
away from the crowds, relaxing on the sand. With Hong Kong, you don’t have to make that difficult
decision! A great way to start your time off would be to head up to Victoria Peak, which is a lookout
point offering stunning views of the city and the harbor underneath, complete with telescopes.
Later in the day, you can checkout Victoria Harbor up close. Have dinner at a harborside restaurant at
golden hour, and head outside for the nighttime light shows that are sure to impress!


2. World-Class Food

Hong Kong offers some amazing traditional food here, but if you’re in the mood for something different,
you’ll also find just about any other kind of cuisine you can think of! From Mexican, Southeast Asian, and
Hawaiian to barbecue, Mediterranean and vegan dishes – it’s all there! You’ll often be accompanied by
some live music, perfect to have a drink to! Grab a mojito, a glass of wine, or an ice-cold beer and watch
the sunset! If you feel like having a quick snack, there’s also some delicious street food to be found
around here and really, shouldn’t be skipped over.
​

3. Surfing

If you’re a surfer, visiting Hong Kong should be on a list of your top destinations. With places called “Big
Wave Bay” you can tell it’s just made for the sport! While you won’t find waves quite as tremendous as
those in Hawaii, they’re still quite impressive and HK has a long history of surfing.
As winter is one of the best times to go, it’s time to leave the cold and enjoy an array of different spots.
Cheung Sha is great if you want to get away from crowds of people and have your own space without
waiting. Pui O is perfect for beginners or those who are trying to improve their skills to an intermediate
level. The aforementioned Big Wave Bay is reserved for the more experienced surfer and is easily the
city’s most popular surf spot. However, beware of strong riptides and rocks at both ends of the beach.
It’s a wise idea to bring your own surfboard if you have one! The easiest way to travel with it is to bring a
dedicated travel bag.


4. Theme Parks

Who doesn’t love a good theme park? Whether you’re bringing kids along or are just an adrenaline
junkie, you’re sure to find something up your alley. Disneyland Hong Kong is yours for the taking, and
the perfect way to spend an entire day if you don’t feel like heading to the beach.
If you don’t feel like visiting Mickey and Minnie, there’s another great alternative: Ocean Park. It’s a
marine mammal park, oceanarium, animal theme park and amusement park. The rollercoasters you’ll find here are some of the world’s best, and offer awe-inspiring views of the harbour. One thing is for sure,
you’ll never run out of things to do or look at. Both Disneyland and Ocean Park make up the 2 biggest
theme parks in Hong Kong, too!

5. Relax at Repulse Bay Beach

Going to the beach doesn’t always mean you have to partake in extreme activities like surfing!
Sometimes it’s more than enough just laying on the beach, closing your eyes, and listening to the sounds
of the tide rolling in. Repulse Bay Beach is the perfect location to do so, with white sands, relatively calm
waters, and lush trees that surround it. Instead of a rugged feel, it offers a kind of resort vibe, complete
with bay houses, designer stores, and incredible restaurants perfect for casual and upscale settings.

You’ll want to pack a swimsuit just in case you feel like taking a dip in the water, along with some water
shoes to protect your feet from any rocks or garbage, though you probably won’t find a whole lot of that
here.
Pro Tip: If you’re up for it, there’s a more “secret”, tree-lined beach called “South Bay” around 3 miles
away.


Summary

Now that you’ve had a chance to read all about the 5 reasons why you need a beach vacation in Hong
Kong, which adventure will you be starting out with? The great thing about Hong Kong is that you can
easily and realistically accomplish all of them! Weather is typically climate – not too hot nor too cold.
However, there are periods where it can get quite humid so make sure to plan accordingly!
No matter what your interests or goals are, there’s at least one activity on our guide that you’re sure to
enjoy and remember for years to come! Thanks for tuning in and we’ll see you again soon. Happy
traveling!

For more similar articles, check out;
 outsidepursuits.com

​Not only are we looking forward to doing more cycling tours in the near future as we reach the cooler dry season, but we'll also be hitting the trails for the first time!

Very soon, Wild HK will begin running set tours exploring some incredible off road terrain right here in Hong Kong. Many different grades and types of route can be done, it's a really exciting development for us and hope many folk will enjoy our new service.

So watch this space :)

​​You don’t need a big backpack
Although the hiking in Hong Kong is undoubtedly great, you’re not going to be doing any multi-day hikes like you might in the Himalayas or the Andes. So, you don’t need a huge backpack. Just bring a daypack that’s big enough for the bare essentials like any extra layers you might need, plenty of water, and of course, your camera. Anything you leave behind, you’ll be reunited with it back in your accommodation later on. Whatever time of year you’re travelling to Hong Kong, it can get quite hot, sweaty, and humid. A great option to stay comfy and (relatively) dry, is a bag with a space for air between your back and the pack itself.

It’s not only being hot you should be prepared for but keeping yourself safe from the sun.
Sunscreen is one of the most important things to bring with you, as on a wide-open hiking trail, that hot sun can be relentless. And you don’t want to miss out on another hiking trail because you’re sheltering inside from those UV rays.

​Be prepared to get wet
One of the downsides of Hong Kong is that the weather is often unpredictable. So even though in the morning, there may be brilliant sunshine and no clouds in the sky, don’t let that fool you. It’s a rookie error to go out without a waterproof, no matter when you travel. In the cooler months from December to February, consider something a little heavier. For the rest of the year, something lightweight that can easily fold up into your day pack should suffice. Quick drying and lightweight travel pants are also a great idea to keep try. Not only will they protect you from the rain, but they’ll save plenty of space in your pack too.

​Make sure you’ve a good pair of walking boots​
Even if you’re not going hiking in Hong Kong, it’s a great idea to have sturdy walking boots or trainers. There’s so much to see in the city that you will spend the majority of the day on your feet exploring, so you’ll need support. However, if you’re reading this post you probably are going hiking, so keep reading. Specialist hiking shoes will assist you on the rough and uneven tracks like the Po Toi and Lung Ha Wan country trails. They’ll also provide you with extra grip should you find the track wet and slippery. On the subject of footwear, it’s not just about having an appropriate pair of shoes. Socks are important too. Pick up a wool or synthetic blend to keep your feet dry and minimise the risk of blisters. Avoid cotton, as that attracts moisture and leaves your feet prone to rubbing and blisters. That can easily ruin your hike.

​Don’t bring anything that isn’t essential​
Sometimes it can be hard to decide what’s essential and what’s not on a hike. But you do need to be ruthless. An overweight and heavy pack can ruin your experience of hiking, and you certainly don’t want that! Although it’s a lovely idea to read a book on top of a mountain during a break, things that add extra weight and you’re not 100% sure you’ll use can be left back in your accommodation. If you can’t decide what’s essential and what’s not, just ask yourself if you could live without it for 8 hours. If the answer is yes, leave it behind! Make sure you don’t leave anything behind anything important on your hotel or on the
place where you stay. And speaking of a place to stay, there are lots of vacation rentals in Hong Kong so there’s no need to worry as they are very comfortable so you can relax and chill after your hike.

​​But do bring toiletries that are…
Toiletries are an important one when it comes to essentials. They’re some of the weightiest objects we take on holiday with us, and a lot of the time we don’t use them all. However, the two biggies that you’ll need for your hiking adventures in Hong Kong are sunscreen and insect spray. Don’t forget ‘em. Hand sanitiser is a good idea too, especially just before eating.

So, now that you know exactly what to pack for your hiking adventures in Hong Kong
It can be tricky to plan adventures in a different country. To find the best hikes in Hong Kong, why not search out a little bit of expert help? Wild Hong Kong is one of the top adventure and eco-tourism operators in the country, and they’re on hand to help you with any questions and queries you might have about your trip. They offer a number of day tours of the coolest hiking spots in HK, including the Dragon’s Back Trail, and sunrise and sunset climbs of the mountains surrounding the city.

​
Trip101 is a one-stop travel guide, offering the latest guides on different ways to travel and places to check out. Featuring content contributed by travel writers and enthusiasts, showcasing top hotels, Trip101 features the best vacation rentals and private accommodations for your travels.
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​(Photos by Rory Mackay of Wild Hong Kong)

​East Dam & Long Ke (East Sai Kung Country Park) 
–Beaches, Cliff Jumping, Hiking, Kayaking, Rock Climbing
WILD FACTOR- ★★★★☆
 
Venturing into the wilds of Sai Kung, the plethora of options open to adventures is astounding! The East Dam is a great launch pad from which to mount an expedition. Coming in, the drive around the azure waters of High Island Reservoir makes for a scenic introduction. Upon arrival at the east dam one can venture in a couple of directions; either head down the slope to the dam wall and Geopark beyond, or follow the Maclehose trail northwards. The Geopark is rugged and truly wild. Littered with islands, caves and hexagonal rock formations, there are many opportunities for the more intrepid of folk to enjoy some fishing, climbing & cliff jumping. Following the Maclehose Trail in the opposite direction, one can explore arguably the most Idyllic beach HK has to offer in Long Ke Wan and some extraordinary hiking routes over to Sai Wan and beyond.
 
Getting there: Having reached Sai Kung, grab a cab out to the East Dam of High Island Reservoir for around $120. Returning from the East Dam, a taxi is again the best option instead of walking. From Sai Wan, one can hike up to the road or take a boat back to Sai Kung. If hiking back remember to check the 29r bus timetable or call for a taxi in advance, as mobile reception in that area can be fickle.

​An untarnished landscape bursting with deserted beaches, fertile valleys and lush jungles lying in wait.

​Getting there: To reach the start of the trail, catch either the ‘number 11’ bus from Tung Chung, or ‘number 1’ bus from Mui Wo to Tai O. Keep an eye out for Shek Pik Reservoir and disembark at the first bus stop immediately after crossing the dam wall. Take in the beautiful sight of Shek Pik Reservoir and Lantau Peak behind before turning away and following the Lantau Trail south. Additionally, if hiking 15-17 kilometers sounds like biting off more than you can chew, there is always the option to hike either end of the trail as a shorter return from Shek Pik or Tai O, to Fan Lau and Man Cheung Po/Yi O respectively. 

​Ping Nam Stream (Pat Sin Leng Country Park) 
–Cliff Jumping, River Walk, Waterfalls
WILD FACTOR- ★★★★★
 
If you fancy exploring a natural world that most folk don’t know about within Hong Kong, then a day trip out to Luk Keng could be in order. Located within the innermost depths of Pat Sin Leng Country Park, it is a region that is as much unknown as it is remote. However, the area is easily assessable via public transport and totally worth the effort to reach. Nestled amongst rolling hills and the gateway to the northern parts of Pat Sin Leng Country Park, Luk Keng is truly rural. Life moves at a different pace here, the locals are as relaxed as they come in HK. It rubs off quickly and once there, you certainly won’t be in a rush to leave. From there one can venture into higher peaks of Pat Sin Leng and discover hidden gems that lie within, namely the Ping Nam Stream. A challenging route upstream with many dramatic cascades and pools along the way to take in. However, beware of slippery rocks in the wet, the use of a guide would be strongly recommended.
 
Getting there: Make your way to Fanling MTR Station, exit A and hop on the KMB 78K Bus. After 20-25 minutes or so, hop off at Nam Chung stop and cross the main road looking for Luk Keng Road. A further 20 minutes walk and one will reach a small village, turn right here onto South Bay Road and keep going till you meet a small reservoir dam wall. Find the goat track on the right hand side, this will bypass the dam and lead you to the Ping Nam Stream. On the way back, keep an eye out for a 56K minibus. Catch this back to the MTR if the opportunity arises.

​Sharp Peak & Ham Tin (East Sai Kung Country Park) 
–Beaches, Hiking, Mountain Climbing
WILD FACTOR- ★★★★☆
 
I think this could regarded be Hong Kong’s most remote mountain and the areas surrounding the mount are simply stunning! Although Sharp Peak isn’t massively high at 468m, it is a very prominent hill and easy on the eye. The unspoilt views from the summit are among the finest in the land. It is a steep and dramatic final ascent to the summit, but well worth the effort on a fine day. It is a top draw route deserved of top draw conditions, so save this one for the best weather available (clear skies, high visibility). Get up there for sunrise/sunset if you can. Be warned, that this is a tough route in the warmer summer months!
 
Getting there: From Sai Kung town, take the 29R village bus or $100 taxi to Sai Wan Pavilion. Walk for an hour to reach Sai Wan and then a further hour in a northerly direction along the beaches of eastern Sai Kung Country Park. Dominating the landscape, Sharp Peak will often be in view. The simplest way to ascend is to take the direct route up the mountain ridge from the northern end of Tai Long Beach. Heading down there are a few options route wise, either returning via Sai Wan or following Mclehose Trail section 2 towards Wong Shek Pier and catching a bus from Pak Tam Road. This route can be done in either direction.

​Yellow Dragon Gorge (Lantau North Country Park) 
–River Walk, Waterfalls
WILD FACTOR- ★★★★★
 
Hidden away within the depths of Lantau Island is the Yellow Dragon Gorge, a secluded oasis away from all the hustle and bustle. Boulder by boulder, one ventures upstream into a vertical landscape. Surrounded by cliffs and waterfalls, you would not believe you're in Hong Kong. The adventure culminates at the end of the gorge where three massive cascades fall down onto you from high above! Be aware that this route is of a technical nature, requiring jumping between stones on the river and bouldering in places to reach the upper waterfalls. The use of a guide would be strongly recommended.
 
Getting there: Make your way to Tung Chung MTR station and from there; walk through the estates of Tung Chung Town to Wong Lung Hang Road. Follow the paved road all the way to the end and find the river on your left. Venture as far upstream as you dare.

​Life moves at a different pace here, the locals are as relaxed as they come in HK. It rubs off quickly and once there, you certainly won’t be in a rush to leave. From there one can venture into higher peaks of Pat Sin Leng and discover hidden gems that lie within. It’s perfectly feasible to walk the lakeside loop in a clockwise direction, but the anticlockwise adventure makes for the best experience and simplest navigation.

Getting there: The simplest way in (other than driving) is to head into the northern New Territories on the MTR East Rail Line before disembarking at Fanling Station. From there, one can catch the 52B minibus that departs roughly every 20 minutes. Hop off the bus at Hok Tau Wai and make your way to the t-junction in the road. Continue along the sealed road in a southerly direction following signs for Hok Tau Reservoir. Walking in is easy going on a sealed access road. The imposing ranges of Pat Sin Leng become ever nearer and before you know it you’re in amongst the rocky peaks. After rising up, one reaches a dam wall and the impressive panorama of the lake held behind is unveiled; from this point onwards the adventure begins in earnest,
following signs for the ‘Hok Tau Family Walk’.

​Getting there: The best way to reach Ng Tung Chai from central HK is by catching the MTR to Tai Wo Station, then descending below the station where one can either taxi or bus it up to Ng Tung Chai Village. The 64K bus runs every 15-20 minutes during the day, you can catch this to Ng Tung Chai stop and follow the sealed side road up the hill. However, I recommend hopping in a taxi on the way there as it enables you to whizz right up through the village and be deposited at the trailhead. A taxi ride only sets you back around $50HKD.

Lion Rock (Lion Rock Country Park)
–Hiking, Wildlife, City Views
WILD FACTOR- ★★☆☆☆
 
For those who thought The Peak was the most dramatic summit looming over Victoria Harbour, think again. There is a roaring lion to north. It may not be as well known, but the Lion Rock is right up there in terms of grandeur. Conquer this rugged ridge and one will witness some of Hong Kong’s finest views. Feel the intense sprawl of Kowloon and enjoy the iconic backdrop of HK Island behind. Meanwhile a gaze round the other side reveals Sha Tin Valley and the expansive hills of the New Territories. Not only is being at the top incredible, but the walking to be had either side is most enjoyable. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, in particular monkeys! The path will undulate for an hour until arriving at the foot of the Lion Rock. Upon the reaching the summit at 495 meters above sea level, the footpath emerges from the undergrowth to reveal unrivaled panoramas of Kowloon and its surrounds.
 
 
Getting there: The route up is easily accessed from Wong Tai Sin MTR Station. Find exit E and begin climbing up Sha Tin Pass Road, stay on Sha Tin Pass Road and you shall gradually rise above the tower blocks of Kowloon. After about 45 minutes of walking, you’ll intercept the MacLehose Trail and signage for the Lion Rock Country Park on your left hand side. The return route down is fairly simple. Keep turning left at all junctions in the hiking trail and you’ll be back to civilization in an hour. The simplest way to the MTR is to turn left once reaching Lung Cheung Road and follow the highway into Wong Tai Sin. Alternatively, you can cross Lung Cheung Road and head into either Lok Fu or Kowloon Tong.

​For those who thought The Peak was the most dramatic summit looming over Victoria Harbour, think again. There are some incredible vistas to the north of Kowloon.
 
It may not be as well known, but Tate’s Cairn and the adjacent Kowloon Peak is right up there in terms of grandeur. Conquer this rugged ridge and one will witness some of Hong Kong’s finest views. Feel the intense sprawl of Kowloon and enjoy the iconic backdrop of HK Island behind. Meanwhile a gaze round the other side reveals Sai Kung Country Park, Sha Tin Valley and the expansive hills of the New Territories. Not only is being at the top incredible, but the walking to be had either side is most enjoyable.

Mid afternoons make an ideal time to set off, ensuring cooler temperatures and sunset vistas from the summit ridge. The route up is easily accessed from Wong Tai Sin MTR Station. Find exit E and begin climbing up Sha Tin Pass Road, stay on Sha Tin Pass Road and you shall gradually rise above the tower blocks of Kowloon. After about 45 minutes of walking, you’ll intercept the Wilson Trail (Stage 4). Turn right and follow the road up towards the ridge line. Walk through the lush forests of Lion Rock Country Park before emerging upon more grassy terrain. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, in particular monkeys.
 
For those who want a much shorter stroll, upon reaching the junction between Fei Ngo Shan Road and Jat’s Incline, simply walk back down into Choi Hung via Jat’s Incline. Otherwise I recommend following Fei Ngo Shan Road to the mountain ridge where the Tate’s Cairn Weather Observatory is located.

​Upon the reaching the summit at 583 meters above sea level, the route emerges from undergrowth to reveal unrivalled panoramas of Kowloon and its surrounds. Pose for dramatic photos above large granite outcrops dating back to the Jurassic Period. Or take a perch, soaking up the relaxing vibes as skies darken and the vibrant lights from the millions below come to life. A quick dash up one of many small tracks running above the road reveals stunning natural vistas over Ma On Shan and Sai Kung Country Parks... the contrast to Kowloon couldn’t be starker.

​The return route down is fairly simple, but only if you want it to be.
 
Keep walking down Fei Ngo Shan Road to Choi Hung if you want to play it safe. Otherwise, there are a few really awesome alternatives for onwards adventures and ultimately decent back to town. For longer walks, remain with the Maclehose or Wilson Trails as long as you wish. However my pick for the super intrepid is the ridge walk over Kowloon Peak, past ‘Suicide Cliff’ and down the East Face to Clear Water Bay. Be forewarned that this is a very technical and dangerous option only to be attempted by the most experienced of hikers. If in any doubt whatsoever then bring a guide with you, or at the very least do the route in reverse so that you’re climbing the trickier parts of the route.

The whole walk should take the best part of three to four hours. Be sure to bring a few snacks and plenty of fluids for consumption along the way as there are no facilities up there. If you are feeling lazy or want shorten the duration, it is possible to cycle, drive or take a taxi up Fei Ngo Shan Road instead.
 
Tate’ Cairn is a classic year round spot that anyone can have a crack at, yet one with detours that will keep even the most seasoned of hikers more than honest. Its enchanted forests below and spectacular vistas above will no doubt leave one wanting to revisit.