Flat hikes in Hong Kong with stunning beauty but less of the climbs

There are lots of great hikes in Hong Kong that are not to peaks or up steep staircases

Hiking in Hong Kong is a great way to stay healthy and safe during Covid-19, but it can also be exhausting and intimidating if you are new to the hobby

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Walk in the shadow of mountains, but not up them, with these four flat hikes. Photo: Society of Hong Kong Nature Explorers

Published: 8:32pm, 14 Apr 2022Updated: 1:18am, 15 Apr 2022

If you are new to hiking, regaining your fitness or want to get outside but cannot be bothered to ascend one of Hong Kong’s many stunning but steep peaks, fear not. There are plenty of rewarding hikes in Hong Kong that do not include the notorious stair climbs.

But be warned: while the hikes might be easier than heading up big mountains, all things are relative. They can still be a challenge, so bring the right footwear, food, water and a charged mobile phone to call for help. Check the weather forecast and if you are going alone, let someone know where you are heading.

1. MacLehose Section Two – 13km (with options to do half)

Section two of the famous MacLehose Trail takes you to world-class beaches. There are ups and downs, so be prepared for some short climbs, but it is a good flatter option compared with other famous peaks.

There are three options, depending on your fitness level and inclination. Firstly, you can do the whole section from East Dam of High Island, near Sai Kung. The 13km trail takes you through Long Ke, Sai Wan and Ham Tin and back towards Pak Tam Au.

The beautiful Tai Wan and Ham Tin beaches on Tai Long Wan are on MacLehose Section Two. Photo: Getty Images

If you want to see the beaches and have a great hike, you can stop at the beaches and take a boat back to Sai Kung. But they are not always running, as they depend heavily on the right sea conditions. They cost around HK$150.