subject: Trekking Along Scenic Trails In Breathtaking Hong Kong [print this page] With its city located in a landscape that is surrounded by towering mountains, a sprawling countryside and quaint islets, Hong Kong is a hiking enthusiasts dream come true. Home to more than its own share of designated hiking areas, protected regions and lush parklands, Hong Kong offers visitors a myriad of hiking experiences ranging from relaxed and easy trails for amateurs to rough walking trails for the pros, all with the idyllic landscapes of this picturesque island serving as the backdrop.
Inexperienced hikers in search of a relaxing hike should head down to the Bowen Road trail which winds its way around thick tropical shrubbery while offering panoramic views of the cityscape and harbour. Only 2.5km in length, trekkers can also expect to run in to a towering 9-metre monolith dubbed Lovers Stone halfway through the journey. Revered by romantics, this whimsical monolith is just many of the surprises that are in store along this flat and smooth path that is also perfect for joggers. Another trail that is ideal for beginners is found along The Peak-Harlech Road and Lugard where walkers can marvel at breathtaking views of the ocean and Victoria Harbour. A trail that also gives trekkers a sense of the countrys past colonial grandeur, this 3.5km hike takes one on a leisurely stroll around Victoria Peak. The Pineapple Dam path is another short and relatively easy hike that is spread out along Shing Mun Reservoir taking walkers from the edge of Tsuen Wan to a scenic valley and then on to the picturesque mountains of northern Kowloon. The Tai Po Kau Nature Trail also provides idyllic views of the Tai Po Kau Special Area in a hike that includes an encounter with woodlands, sub-tropical foliage as well as regions of forest regeneration. Suited for birdwatchers Tai Po Kau Nature Trail is primarily laid out on a footpath along a hill slope.
Serious hikers on the other hand, can take on the 12 stage Lantau Trail which navigates through the islands most rugged terrain. A difficult hike by any measure, it involves trekking though forests and Lantaus tallest summits. The nearly 80km Wilson Trail is equally challenging while the Shek O and Dragon's Back route offers a ridge walk over landscapes dotted with stunning beaches. The MacLehose Trail is also not for the faint of heart as the 10 state, 100km hike takes over 35 hours to complete as hikers traverse along New Territories moorlands to the scenic Tai Lam Hills.
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