Most of Hong Kong’s cache is centred around its nightlife and shopping, but its green side deserves just as much of a nod. You'd be surprised at how close the great outdoors is from our city's bustling metropolis.
To help make the trek out of the city a little easier, the Hong Kong Tourism Board has kindly put together a series of handy booklets: [url=http://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/attraction/green/index.jhtml]Discover Hong Kong Nature[/url]. Topics range from watching dolphins in Northern Lantau to seeing the sea arches off Sai Kung. So why not venture away from the classic Dragon's Back hike and explore some of the city's more uncharted territories.
Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy
The Eastern New Territories is predominantly a scenic stretch of hills and greenery surrounding the historic rural settlements of in Tai Po and Sha Tin, with swathes of country parks and ancient farmland creating beautiful scenery. Encounter abandoned villages and farms where you can reflect on Hong Kong’s bygone days. Hike from Tai Long Wan (Big Wave Bay) or Tap Mun which offers great photo-ops. After a day of hiking, stop by Sai Kung for seafood and alfresco dining.
Even Hong Kong Island itself has its own sights – most of the island is dedicated country parkland, which means mountain hiking trails, ocean vistas and harbour views. Hikers can traverse the Hong Kong Trail, although there are also easier and shorter trails for first-timers. Hong Kong’s hiking season is best from November to February.
Island Paradise
There are 260 outlying islands in Hong Kong, four are popular destinations by ferry – Lantau, Lamma, Cheung Chau and Peng Chau. Lantau is where the Giant Buddha, Ngong Ping 360 and Wisdom Path are, and where you can witness old trades like shrimp paste making in the fishing town of Tai O. Each of the islands have their own character, but all offer scenic walks with beaches and trails the meander through the hills and along the coastline.
Tour de Force
The HKTB has also recently introduced the [url=http://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/attraction/nk/index.jhtml]Nature Kaleidescope Programme[/url] which offers a diverse array of eco-oriented guided tours. “These tours not only allow visitors to witness Hong Kong’s natural beauty, but also learn more about our heritage and living culture," Lisa Chan of the HKTB says. One of the highlights includes the Northeast New Territories Island Hopping Tour which explores more remote areas such as the Hakka village in Lai Chi Wo, the Crooked Island and Grass Island.
To access more detailed guides online visit:
[url]http://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/attraction/green/index.jhtml[/url]
