HK CYCLING -The wild column

IN THE DECEMBER ARTICLE OF OUR MONTHLY COLUMN IN SAI KUNG/SOUTHSIDE MAGAZINES; WE HEAD OUT ON TWO WHEELS TO SEE SOME OF HK'S COOLEST SPOTS

When imagining cycling in Hong Kong, the thoughts typically conjured up in one’s mind would only seem appealing to the thoroughly adventurous type. The sole domain of bicycle enthusiasts, negotiating undulating terrain on either a busy road or rocky path. For the most part, this stereotype is well deserved. Cycling any kind of significant distance in HK usually involves serious challenges due to the region’s topography and urbanization. However there is one spot that bucks the trend and offers everything someone could ever want from a bicycle excursion.
 
The Tolo Harbour (Hong Kong’s largest) pries its way into the inner most parts of the eastern New Territories offering plentiful coastlines for cyclists and nature lovers to experience. The inner areas of the harbour are home to the towns of Sha Tin and Tai Po; these settlements make ideal hubs from which to explore the area’s remote outer fringes.

Starting in the southern district of Tai Wai, it is possible for one to cycle on dedicated bicycle paths uninterrupted for up to 30 kilometers, all the way to the northern lakeside village of Tai Mei Tuk! Getting there is easy; simply jump onto the MTR east rail and one is rapidly taken out of Kowloon and deposited in the New Territories. Hop off at Tai Wai Station Exit A and across the street are multiple bicycle rental shops, open all year offering a variety of bikes at a fair price (typically $70 for a basic run around and $120 for a road bike per day). Try and find a shop that has outlets in both Tai Wo and Tai Mei Tuk, that way you have the option to make a one-way trip. Some shops don’t offer helmets, so you may wish to come prepared in that department. Also, if you have your own bicycle it is possible to take it on the MTR outside of rush hours simply by removing the front wheel.
 
Once all geared up, the fun begins! Ride northwards through Sha Tin, keeping the Shing Mun River on your right-hand side. Soak up the recreational atmosphere of the town; many folk are out on the water during weekends rowing, fishing, running, flying kites and of course, cycling! The paths can be busy during these times, but never congested. On weekdays the vibe is more peaceful and you will often have the cycle path at your complete disposal. It is a super option for families as it avoids any road crossings and all hazards are well sign posted.
 
After notching up the first 5 kilometers, the Shing Mun River runs into the Tolo Harbour and expansive views open up right before you. The route is well serviced with public toilets and drink kiosks for folk who fancy a quick pit stop en route. Once you’ve reached the next large town of Tai Po, it’s key to make a right hand turn and head for Tai Po Waterfront Park. Turning eastwards, you continue to hug the coastline for another 30-45 minutes until reaching the idyllic village of Tai Mei Tuk. Views on this section of the route are all around you, with the Pat Sin Leng Mountains on the left and a vast expanse of water on the right, often peppered with small sailing craft.

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From Tai Mei Tuk onwards, one can either finish their journey and relax at one of many Thai restaurants in town or extend the cycling adventure. For those who fancy more pedaling, follow the cycle path out onto the damn wall of Plover Cove Reservoir. It is a thoroughly scenic and worthwhile detour. In favor of the more intrepid, continuing on the main road into Plover Cove Country Park is a breathtaking outing! Having finishing cycling, there are a number of different buses and minibuses from Tai Mei Tuk  heading back to the MTR in Tai Po. One can also catch a green taxi back there for around $80.
 
This is an adventure for all. A safe and pleasant excursion catering to the needs of families, yet one that is engaging and flexible enough to keep the most saddle hardened of cyclists honest. These winter months are ideal for cycling in HK, so there is no better time get out and explore.