Take a (night) hike
With its rolling mountains, secluded beaches and urban trails, Hong Kong is a hiker’s paradise. Beyond the skyscrapers of this concrete jungle is a world of adventure that beckons you to come and explore. But have you ever considered hiking in the dark? The perfect way to beat the crowds and, when it’s super hot and humid, it’s a great way to get some exercise without feeling the miserable sun on your back! Attempting HK’s top night hikes will show you the city from an entirely new perspective. It’s a fun family activity as well, so grab your torches and cameras, we’re going star gazing!
Editor’s note: Although hikes are great for families, please exercise caution when taking younger children. Not all hikes are appropriate for all ages.
Ditch your tram tickets for a torch and see a different side to Hong Kong’s most famous landmark. This urban trail is an easy way to fit in a workout whilst seeing spectacular views of the island. Simply search for the “Central Green Trail” on Google Maps and follow The Peak tram line all the way to the top.
A family-friendly alternative is the Morning Trail, which starts at the intersection of Conduit Road and Hatton Road and winds its way up to the Peak.
How to get there: From Admiralty / Central station, head to Hong Kong Park (across from The Peak lower terminus) and follow the stairs right beside the train tracks.
Distance: About 3km
Difficulty: Easy / medium – the trail is mainly a path through residential areas but involves quite a steep incline.
If you’re more about the views than burning calories why not kick back and stargaze from Braemar Hill? With its dreamy vantage point that offers sunset views over Victoria Harbour, this is the perfect option for a gentle evening stroll. If you and your partner can getaway alone, pack a picnic for a memorable date ‘alfresco.’
How to get there: Go to Admiralty MTR station (Island Line/Tsuen Wan Line/South Island Line) and take Exit A. Turn left and take minibus 24M to the terminus. Then follow Mount Butler Road/Sir Cecil’s Ride to the vantage point. After soaking up the view, you can either retrace your steps and return on the 24M or follow the trail all the way to Tai Koo MTR station.
Distance: 7km
Difficulty: Easy
Only a 10-minute climb from Sham Shui Po, Garden Hill is a favourite for night photographers due to its spectacular views of Kowloon. An easy and fun hike with the family and definitely an Instagram opportunity that’s guaranteed to bring in the likes!
How to get there: From Exit D2 at Sham Shui Po MTR, go straight on Kwelin Street for 5 minutes until you reach Castle Peak Road. From there, you will be able to see Mei Ho House. Cross the street, head around the fence then take a left on Berwick Street where you will reach Mei Ho House. You’ll then arrive at the stairs on the left that will take you straight up to Garden Hill.
Distance: Just 15 minutes!
Difficulty: Easy
Once used as a vantage point by pirates, “Devil’s Peak” gained its foreboding name way back in the Qing Dynasty. A fascinating, historical site that is home to World War Two bunkers – it allows for spectacular harbour views from an unusual angle. Go straight from the office to catch the sunset.
How to get there: From Yau Tong MTR Exit A1, walk towards Lei Yue Mun road, take an immediate right and then walk towards the roundabout. Turn left down Ko Chui Road and follow the blue signs announcing the cemetery. About 500m along the road that leads to the cemetery, you will see a clear sign for the Wilson Trail that will take you to Devil’s Peak.
Distance: 4.4km
Difficulty: Easy
Feature image by Mark Lehmkuhler via Flickr, image #1 sourced via Pinterest, image #2 courtesy of Studio Incendo via Flickr; image #3 by KaguraYanki via Flickr; image #4 by Eugene Lim via Flickr
Editor’s note: this article was originally published on Sassy Hong Kong on 8 May, 2017 by Lydia Rose and has been updated.