Hiking in Hong Kong: I found the city’s wild side with not another tourist in sight

Detailed summary

Sadie Whitelocks explores a rarely seen side of this vibrant Asian metropolis.

‘Hong Kong is more nature than city,’ my friend Rainbow tells me over dinner in bustling Soho.

I arrived expecting skyscrapers, neon lights and a city that never takes its foot off the accelerator.

Instead, I’ve discovered a metropolis threaded with hiking trails, from lung-busting climbs to gentle coastal paths where the biggest traffic jams are caused by hikers stopping to admire the view.

There is, however, one recurring feature: stairs. Lots and lots of stairs.

Over four days, I tackle three popular routes. Lion Rock delivers panoramic views, while Dragon’s Back which I hike with Wild Hong Kong winds along a coastal ridge overlooking turquoise water and sandy beaches.

Then there’s The Morning Trail, an uphill route to Victoria Peak where locals tackle seemingly endless steps before breakfast, rewarded with sweeping views of the skyscrapers, harbour and surrounding islands.

What I don’t realise over dinner is that my wildest hike is still to come.

After swapping city hotels – the luxe Hari in the heart of things and the historic Island Shangri-La, where I make time for its spa – I head towards the coast for a stay at The Fullerton Ocean Park.

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