This weekend’s hike was on Lantau Island, close to home. There are so many great trails here where you can explore Hong Kong’s undeveloped countryside; and given the government’s recently announced plans to further urbanize the island, there’s no better time to enjoy the unspoiled lands while you still can.
The Lantau Trail is the region’s main hiking trail, looping along the central and southern portion of the island, and is divided into 12 stages. We take on Stages 5 and 6 that traverse the south west corner of Lantau, reaching the peaks of Keung Shan (459m) and Ling Wui Shan (480m) along the way before looping back north and ending at Tai O fishing village.
The winter haze limited visibility on this otherwise beautiful route. There were very few hikers on the trail, so the solitude and serenity was a nice change from the usually busy weekend routes.
Towards the end of Stage 5, we spent some time exploring Lantau’s “secret garden” – a traditional Chinese landscaped garden hidden in Lung Tsai valley, and only accessible via this trail. This gem is now abandoned and officially closed to the public. I’ll have more about Lung Tsai Ng Yuen in the next post.
Lantau Stage 5 begins at Sham Wat Road. We’ll be heading up the mountain in the back, which is Kwun Yam Shan.
In the distance you can (barely) see Tai O village, our final destination.
On the mountain sides there are numerous temples and monasteries, among feng shui woods.
Looking back at Kwun Yam Shan and Lantau Peak further beyond.
A hazy view of Shek Pik reservoir down below.
The long path to Keung Shan mountain ahead.
Keung Shan peak at 459m.
Onwards to Ling Wui Shan.
Ling Wui Shan peak at 490m.
Heading further south before turning back towards Man Cheung Po.
Remote and isolated Tsz Hing Monastery.
Part of a closed off path and water dam near Man Cheung Po campsite.
The gates at Lung Tsai Ng Yuen garden, now closed and fallen into disrepair.
From the trail you can still glimpse the Chinese water garden.
Finally near the end of the trail, with Tai O village in sight.
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Peter Lam Photography 
I didn’t know there was such a vast rural area on such an urban island. I would to explore places like this.
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Yes, and the best thing is that many of the trails are easily accessible via public transportation.
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