For its size and population, Hong Kong is remarkably green. More than 70 percent of its land mass is rural mountains, forests and outlying islands – all within easy reach of urban areas. Visitors can enjoy city gardens and parks, or beautiful beaches, hiking trail, or one of the many outlying islands and protected country parks.

Nature lovers will be amazed at Hong Kong's diverse flora and fauna, including wetlands and bird sanctuary, marine parks and dolphins, along with several conservation projects.

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NATURAL ATTRACTIONS

Hong Kong GeoPark - Located on the coastlines of the Northeast New Territories, this specially designated area houses a myriad of unique landforms and rock formations shaped by waves and weathering.

Victoria Peak - The highest point on Hong Kong island – inspiring and green with beautiful vistas of the city landscape and the South China Sea.

Mai Po Nature Reserve - A nature preserve housing the Mai Po marshes – one of the world’s most important wetlands which provides a critical stopping-off point for migrating birds.

Kandoorie Farm & Botanical Garden - a working farm and garden dedicated to education and conservation of birds & plants.

Kowloon Park - A welcome respite in the heart of bustling Tsim Sha Tsui. This park features a Chinese Garden with shady trees and pretty pagoda, an aviary of colorful parrots and Bird Lake where pink flamingos dwell.

MacLehose Trail - A 62-mile hiking trail meandering through ridges and villages across eight New Territory country parks. The trail is split into 10 sections with spectacular views along the entire route.

Lamma Island - A peaceful island of fisherman, farmers and expats famous for its seafood and its ban on cars. Great hiking and biking trails abound.

Poi Toi Island - Group of islands on the southern edge of Hong Kong containing a few seafood restaurants and a small population of residents. It is the location of a series of prehistoric rock carvings and unique rock formations.

Dragon’s Back Trail - Arguably Hong Kong’s most famous trail. It crisscrosses the ridge or dragon’s back of Hong Kong island. Hikers are rewarded when reaching Shek O, the cute seaside town at trail’s end with a selection of fresh seafood restaurants.

Tai Tam Country Park - The largest of four country parks on Hong Kong Island, it contains the beautiful Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir, wooded countryside, and trails to traverse.

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FLORA AND FAUNA

The Hong Kong Wetland Park is a sophisticated ecotourism facility that gives visitors the opportunity to explore the extraordinary flora and fauna of the wetlands up close, while providing informative and entertaining insights into conservation and threats to the natural environment.

Treat yourself to nature in the “Wild with a Dolphin Watching Tour” off the coast of Lantau Island. You can also visit one of the Marine Parks to see the spectacular achievements in restoring and regenerating corals and the exotic fish it attracts.

In Hong Kong, a green urban parks abound for jogging, walking or for enjoying other forms of recreation.

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POPULAR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Many of Hong Kong's natural beauty spots are contained within a network of 23 protected country parks and four major hiking trails - most are less than an hour and some only minutes away from urban areas. Internationally important wildlife sanctuaries and sites of special interest are complemented by the Hong Kong Wetland Park where one can practice hiking, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, camping, diving, wildlife observation and cycling.

Taking a ferry is half the fun of visiting an outlying island, particularly Lantau, Lamma, Peng Chau and Cheung Chau, as the ride takes you through the wondrous surroundings of bustling Victoria Harbour. The journey takes from 20 minutes to an hour, depending on the ferry type and island destination. Another popular island, Po Toi, is just 30 minutes away from the popular seaside town of Stanley, on the south side of Hong Kong Island.

Hong Kong has a good selection of beaches throughout the territory, some on outlying islands and in country parks, others close by on the south side of Hong Kong Island. Several provide opportunities for water sports and fun in the sun. The beaches offer a safe environment with facilities for relaxed seafront dining.

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TRADITIONAL SPORTS

For a truly memorable golfing experience, head out to the public course located off Sai Kung on the tiny island of Kau Sai Chau.

Hong Kong is a great place for fishing, with 17 scenically located reservoirs stocked with a variety of species. They are located throughout the territory with the more popular reservoirs, Pok Fu Lam, Tai Tam, High Island and Shing Mun, accessible by public transport. Fishing season is from September to March.

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IMPORTANT SPORTING EVENTS

Rugby Sevens (International Rugby Tournament) (March)

Hong Kong Marathon (February)

Hong Kong International Kung Fu Festival (November 26-28)

Hong Kong Open 2010 golf tournament (November)

Hong Kong International Horse Races (December)

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT THE HONG KONG TOURISM BOARD