How to hike across northern Lantau

Once remote and untouched, Lantau Island as a whole is anything but nowadays. Since the construction of Chek Lap Kok Airport, the island has become a major transport hub and commuter base. Many of us pass through the northern reaches of Lantau on a regular basis, but most overlook this region for outdoor pursuits as it is not part of any country park. Known instead as a hotspot for infrastructure; namely the Lantau Link, Disneyland and Sunny Bay. Despite all the construction of recent decades, the area still possesses some surprisingly secluded areas, peppered with nature walks and stunning viewpoints.

There is a fantastic short to mid-length loop walk that navigates hilltops and coastlines, offering a contrast of vistas. The basic loop described here is around seven kilometres in length. Allow anything between two to four hours to complete it depending on your pace. It is perfectly feasible to complete this route in a clockwise direction, but the anticlockwise adventure makes for the best experience and simplest navigation. No matter which direction you decide to go, you’re guaranteed a peaceful retreat from city life and a dose of fresh air.

Read more: Your guide to hiking Lam Tsuen Country Park

The simplest way to reach these trails is by taking a bus rather than a train or by car. If travelling by MTR or car, then the option exists to begin from Sunny Bay or Disneyland. Toy can access the route via alternate trails running over Tai Yam Teng Peak or up Mong Tung Hang Valley.

Not far from the Toll Plaza, there is a reasonably visible set of concrete stairs. The stairs begin through thick foliage and quickly rise into scrubland vegetation. This section of footpath is direct and will propel you towards the summit of Fa Peng Teng promptly. En route, take a few stops to catch your breath and turn back to enjoy the emerging views of the Kap Shui Mun Bridge. (You’ll know you’re near the top when you pass a small building).

Without being too high at 273 meters, Fa Peng Teng commands prominence over its surrounds. It provides fantastic views in all directions. At this point, if wishing to do this hike as more of a family friendly option, then it is probably best to spend more time up top enjoying the views before simply returning back the way you came. Otherwise, carry on as there is plenty more to come. 

Read more: Your neighbourhood guide to Tai O

Not far from the summit, jutting out of the hillside is Fa Ping Rock. Renowned for its apparently striking resemblance of a flower vase. From there descend towards the other side of Lantau and a small beach. Once at the coastline keep an eye out for a discreet turning to the left which then heads along the coast. This last section of this trail in many ways, is my favourite. It wraps all the way around the top of Lantau back to the start point giving plenty of open vistas in the process. Please be sure to come prepared with plenty of water and some food as there are no facilities. 

For the more adventurous folk out there; this basic loop can be extended in a variety of ways by following the hilltop trails southwards towards Discovery Bay, Mui Wo and beyond.

A hike in Northern Lantau serves as a perfect excuse to drive over now the Lantau Link is toll free. Northern Lantau is such an incredible part of Hong Kong to explore. Any adventure here will leave you with a bunch of great memories and a sound night’s sleep. 

Views without the hike 

If you wish to stop and take in views of the Tsing Ma Bridge, without hiking, the Lantau Link Visitor Centre over on the neighbouring island of Tsing Yi is worth a visit. The centre can be reached by public transport via the 308M minibus from Tsing Yi MTR, taxi or by car.