Hong Kong's best hikes during the winter
This is the season to explore the city's natural charms. Here are five great day trips to get you started
JUNGLE JAUNT
Tai Po Kau to Shing Mun
The most extensive woodland in Hong Kong, with picturesque streams.
Start at Tai Po Kau Special Area, a forest reserve hosting diverse wildlife including brilliantly coloured birds. Walk up the narrow road to a small grassy area at the start of four trails: red, blue, brown and yellow.
Head up alongside a stream, and follow signs for the blue trail. In some places the forest is jungle-like, especially where the trail climbs by the stream, crosses a bridge, then almost turns back on itself.
The blue trail meets a country park service road. Turn left, and you soon exit the forest on the north slopes of Grassy Hill. At Lead Mine Pass, turn left, and downhill.
You re-enter forest. If you're interested in trees and bamboos, take a left turn to an arboretum with a fine collection of local species. Arriving at Shing Mun Reservoir, turn right to follow the west shore to Pineapple Dam, enjoying picturesque streams en route.