Taking a hike uphill and round island

Hong Kong

The concrete jungle of Hong Kong makes it easy to forget that there are plenty of green lungs around. More than 40 percent of the territory is unbuildable hilly terrain ideally suited for country parks. Together with many of Hong Kong's lesser islands and secluded beaches, they make ideal places to take a long hike on a cool fall day.

One of the most accessible walks on the island is a 5-kilometer trek from Hong Kong Parkview to Stanley via Violet Hill and The Twins. This section of the Wilson Trail ends near Stanley, where you can reward yourself with a meal at one of the many al fresco restaurants. It is a fairly demanding hike due to the steep terrain but you will be entranced by the stunning vistas along the trail, including that of Tai Tam Reservoir and the sudden urban shock of Stanley as you emerge from the summit of The Twins.