Cheers to the New Year

Begin the New Year connecting with nature in Hong Kong’s stunning back garden. Head to Sai Kung and catch a breathtaking sunrise at High Island Reservoir. Opt for an early night so you can begin your journey before daybreak. Head directly to High Island Reservoir East Dam via taxi from Sai Kung Town where you can catch the sun rising over the turquoise water. From here, the East Dam is a great spot to start your hike along the High Island Geo Trail. After the hike, head back to the East Dam and walk downhill until you hit the pristine beach of Long Ke Wan – lounge here for a few hours before heading back into town. 

Back in Sai Kung Town, grab a seat at Little Cove Espresso and enjoy a bulletproof coffee or organic cola while tucking into a healthy — and Insta-worthy — meal. You can’t go wrong with a colourful smoothie bowl, avocado toast, or pistachio-artisan brioche. 

Ready yourself for a DIY afternoon at BeCandle. Pick your favourite scents and experience making your own aromatic candle from their one-hour candle crafting workshop. The workshop is available from 2pm to 4pm every Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. Visit their storefront on Sai Kung Tai Street to purchase artisan candles and scented products made from high-quality vegetable wax, fine fragrances, and essential oils. 

Ring in the New Year in Hong Kong Island's eastern neighbourhood. Begin your day with a 9.5-kilometre walk along the morning trail from Wong Nai Chung Gap to Quarry Bay. A 30-minute bus ride from Exchange Square bus terminus will take you to Wong Nai Chung Gap Road. Walk up the steps to Parkview, then continue along the trail until you reach your first vantage point: Jardine’s Lookout. Admire the skyline before you head to the next point, Mount Butler, where you will be greeted with amazing views of Quarry Bay and Tai Koo. Continue your descent to Mount Parker Road. As you reach Quarry Bay Tree Walk, you can view the first cluster of abandoned wartime stoves, and war relics, used by the army for cooking. Continue walking until you reach bustling King’s Road.

Turn left to King’s Road and continue your walk to Nuttea – a milk tea shop specialising in vegan teas made with nut milk and dairy-free cream. Refuel with a cold Banana Oatmeal Nut Mylk or any of their fruit teas with cream for a refreshing treat. 

Take the MTR to Sai Wan Ho Station for an eclectic Asian lunch at art gallery and restaurant Gitone. Dig into your meal among a display of fine art and ceramics, complete with a soundtrack of classical music in the background. Make your own masterpiece in a one and a half-hour ceramic or painting class, right at the venue. Make sure to call to book your class in advance to get a spot.

Head to Discover Hong Kong for more alternative ways to ring in the new year.