Forget the likes of the Morning Trail and tackle some of the city’s more exciting and lesser trekked hikes.
DESCRIPTION
For a leisurely hike try Po Toi, the most south-easterly of Hong Kong’s islands. It’s almost an hour each way on the ferry, and there are a few different hiking options available. On arrival at Po Toi, take the Po Toi Country Trail along the coast passing the (humdrum) ancient rock carving to the sea cliffs at Nam Kok Tsui, then up to the lighthouse. From here you have two choices: back the way you came (read: plenty of beer time), or climb up the 1,000 steps to the pavilion overlooking the whole island and, on a clear day, far beyond. There’s the third option of the ‘rugged trail’ which fitter hikers should also be able to finish in time for a quick drink and snack before the ferry. Since it’s impossible to get lost on Po Toi, you can split into sub-groups if you’re going in a large crowd. Beer and seafood is available at Ming Kee restaurant.
USEFUL INFO
The regular route is almost entirely on paved paths. There is an optional steep climb about 200m on well-formed steps (about 1,000 of them) so please wear suitable footwear. This hike is very suitable for beginners who have a reasonable level of fitness. Please bring plenty of water or sports drink (one litre at least), and bring a hat and sunblock – almost all this route is without shade.
TIME OUT RATINGS
Speed: 2.5
Length: 1 (about 4-5km)
Gradient (ascent): 1-2 (about 80m or 270m depending on route)
Surface: 1-2 (almost all on paved trails)
Overall: 1.5-1.85 +0.25 for the heat = 1.75-2.1
GETTING THERE
Firstly, bear in mind that the trip is constrained by there being limited ferries from Aberdeen – on Saturdays, for instance, there is only one in the morning (10am) and two return ferries (2pm and 4pm). Be sure to check the full ferry timetable and plan accordingly. The ferry costs $25 each way, cash only (no Octopus). Grab water and snacks before arriving at the ferry pier. To get to the ferry itself, from Central Exchange Square Bus Station bus stop take the 70 to Aberdeen Bus Terminus. The ferry pier is about 150m east of the Wholesale Fish Market.