Opened on the 4th December 1984, the Lantau Trail turns 40.
To celebrate we have created a limited edition trail medal and challenge. The route covers 40 KMs of the trail. Including the highlights such as Lantau Peak, Sunset Peak, Tai O and more.
Designed in collaboration with TourisMan.hk, a tourism management organisation specialising on Lantau Island.
Recommended Hike Plan
Day one will have you climbing two peaks in succession, so be sure you're stocked with plenty of water and prepare by reading our recommended Hike plan below, beforehand!
Day 1 - 12.7km
Nam Shan - Ngong Ping 360
The climb up Sunset Peak, also known as Tai Tung Shan, is not too steep, however, there is little to no shade on the way up, so be sure to have plenty of water and sun protection on you, as there are no points to refill your bottles along this stage. Once at the top, you are rewarded with stunning views across the silver grass valleys and neighbouring peaks, and like the name suggests, it’s a great spot to catch the sunset.
Almost as quickly as you make the steep descent down from Sunset Peak, you will start to make the climb up to Lantau Peak - the highest publicly accessible summit in Hong Kong, also known as Fung Wong Shan. The initial climb is relatively gentle, but has several steeper climbs, made easier thanks to well laid paths and steps. A majority of the path is unshaded, meaning you’re exposed to the elements - whether that’s the gruelling heat from the sun or chilling winds! Be sure to pack and dress accordingly.
Take a a quick pitstop at the top of Lantau Peak, and enjoy the views of Big Buddha and Wisdom Path down below. Just be sure you have enough energy to get yourself down the hill, as you make yet another steep descent, this time towards Ngong Ping 360. Here you can top up on refreshments from the many tuck shops and kiosks, and hail a taxi home.
Ngong Ping 360 - Tai O
This section is relatively short and is considered an interim trail between stages 3 and 5 of the Lantau Trail. Aside from a few steps, a majority of the trail heads downhill, and takes you around the Big Buddha where you will get unobstructed views of the bronze statue. Hit the stores and facilities before you head down Ngong Ping Road, and join Sham Wan Road for the start of section 5.
The walk climbs up and around Kwun Yam Shan, though doesn’t take you up to the peak. It then traces the tops of the main Lantau ridge, as you snake up and down peaks. The trail has very little coverage, but you are treated to rolling views of thick, luscious vegetation across both sides of the island, before descending down towards Man Cheung Po Campsite.
The last section of this trail is down a steep, concrete path and leads you to the outskirts of Tai O, also known as “Venice of Hong Kong” for its stilt houses built over waterways, and is worth the detour just to soak up the history and culture of this remote fishing village. Though remote, there are plenty of transportation options in Tai O with a bus terminus, taxi line and ferry pier to take you back to Mui Wo or Tung Chung, thus concluding day two of our recommended hike plan.
Day 3 - 14.7
Tai O - The Dam Wall
Day three kickstarts with a walk along the south west of Lantau. Although the longest section of the Lantau trail, this stage is a relatively easy and flat walk, passing several secluded beaches and viewing spots. As you reach Fan Lau Tsuen about three-quarters of the way in, you will have the opportunity to stop for some light bites and drinks at the local store and use the facilities before you make your way towards the Southwest Lantau Marine Park at the end of this trail.
This whole section follows a concrete path along a water catchment, and although not the most exciting in terms of terrain and views, the path is relatively shaded and well-maintained, making it easy to tackle. It eventually comes out at the Lantau Country Parks Board in Shek Pik, where you will have access to toilets before you continue on to stage 9.
This part of Lantau trail is relatively easy and flat, first following Shek Pik reservoir, before turning out onto the peninsula, offering views of the coast. You will pass two campsites, Shek Lam Chau and Lo Kei Wan, each with their own beaches, and the latter offering a final toilet stop before, before you head inland towards Shui Hau Village. Here, you will have access to the Shui Hau Inn Store, where you can grab some snacks and rehydrate.
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