Hong Kong's Best Kept Secret Revealed

Published
11/09/2017 by

Hong Kong's buzzing metropolis keeps it well-documented as one of the most exciting destinations in the world for city life, but many are surprised to discover Hong Kong's greatest secret: its stunning natural beauty. This is where lush rural land reveals spectacular cityscapes, remote beaches, rustic villages, serene islands and stunning hiking and cycling routes. With 40% of Hong Kong's land designated into 24 country parks, opportunities are abound for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Hong Kong Tourism Board's (HKTB) newly-launched Great Outdoors campaign and its corresponding Your Guide to Hiking & Cycling in Hong Kong will educate visitors about the wealth of outdoor experiences available. By taking readers into a diverse range of nature trails, all located less than two miles outside of the city, the brand-new guide simplifies the planning for experiencing Hong Kong's spectacular, nature-filled wonderland. The carefully-selected nature trails highlight the best of Hong Kong's great outdoors within three different areas: Hiking in Heritage, Picture-perfect Vistas, and Geographical Wonders.

Hiking in Heritage: Hiking in Heritage emphasizes beautiful urban hiking trails around Hong Kong that range from easy to difficult. The luscious greenery along these trails is not only home to stunning views and urban landscapes, but also offers a glimpse into Hong Kong's storied history and colonial past.

Picture-perfect Vistas: Photography lovers will be wowed by routes like the Magnificent Landscapes trail, which takes hikers up the 869-meter Sunset Peak (so-named for its glorious views of the setting sun) and the remote and romantic Silvermine Bay Beach, through plenty of breathtaking scenery along the way.

Geographical Wonders: Hong Kong's New Territories are home to diverse geological formations that create eerily beautiful landforms. The natural wonders of Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark include the Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region and the Sedimentary Rock Region. Both areas were formed between 140-160 million years ago from volcanic materials, and boast diverse geological formations and idyllic-looking islands formed entirely of sedimentary rocks.

"Hong Kong's unexpected green element is a perfect complement to its well-known epicurean pedigree. We've developed our new Great Outdoors program to make it as convenient and rewarding for our guests as possible," noted HKTB US Director Bill Flora. "A day spent in the great outdoors all but guarantees that one returns to the city ready to fully immerse themselves in Hong Kong's culinary haven."