Peace and tranquillity can be found in the city's established country parks and 13 walking trails located on Taipa and Coloane
Cotai Island has the world's highest density of cranes. They are, of course, the construction variety and not the species of bird. But finding peace and tranquility amid the hustle and bustle of the city is still possible.
More than two decades ago, the Macau government established country parks which are protected from rapid urbanisation. The south side of Coloane Island, which neighbours Cotai, is filled with nature paths and hikes. The island is nicknamed the 'Green Lung' and is the best-kept secret in town.
According to the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau, there are 13 walking trails, with two on Taipa and 11 on Coloane. Access to information on the country park and hiking route details can be challenging. The government's IACM's nature website is in Chinese only, so it is suggested that keen hikers visit one of the nature visitors centres at Taipa, such as Guia Hill and Hac Sac, to obtain printed information. Alternatively, various servicing stations of the IACM offer pamphlets showing hiking trails.
Coloane Island has a reputation for its laid-back lifestyle and as an idyllic retreat from downtown. More than 90 per cent of the 155.8-hectare island is covered by woods, parks and gardens. Coloane's 11 trails range from family walks and exercise trails to ancient routes. Away from the hustle and bustle, this is a perfect way to invigorate your body and soul.
The 8km Coloane Trail is the toughest and starts and ends at Seac Pai Van Road and takes hikers 100 metres above sea level to the top of Coloane Peak. Other highlights include the 2.7km Northeast Coloane Walking Trail which features 10 observation stops where hikers can learn about the plants, soil and environment of the area.
The 1.2km Dragon Claws Trail in the southwest passes rock formations of mythic proportions. The 2.6km Hac Sa Reservoir Family Trail brings visitors to a delightful view of the Hac Sa Beach and takes about 2? hours. The 1.5km Coloane Exercise Trail has nine separate exercise stations with facilities to warm up and stretch. The 1.4km Ka Ho Trail is accessed from a 50-metre-long staircase and offers barbecue area, children's playground and parking. Seac Pai Van Park Trail, located in the park is a good place for nature education. The trail provides comfortable viewing spots from which to scan Coloane Island and the mainland and, in fine weather under light breezes, the experience is truly invigorating.