Hong Kong is remarkable because you can step from busy urban areas into peaceful countryside in less than an hour. That's particularly true for the Dragon's Back trail which Time Magazine declared as the Best Urban Hike in Asia (22 Nov 2004 Asia Issue). The trail is "the city's finest and most surprising ramble", the Time article says. "The glory of it all is that you're so close to the city, but could hardly feel farther away."

The walk starts in Hong Kong's largest country park, the beautiful Tai Tam Country Park. You will cross the magnificent 1888 built reservoir with jade green waters, sheltered by verdant hillsides and towering sharp peaks.

A lovely cool path takes us through shady groves of bamboo and lush woodland, accompanied by birdsongs. You will emerge into open hillsides often covered with wild azaleas or rose myrtle.

Reaching the spectacular Shek O Country Park, you will follow rugged undulating spinal ridge of the Dragon's Back. From the ridge there are spectacular views eastwards to Clear Water Bay Peninsula and islands in the eastern sea approaches to Hong Kong. To the west, there are views of Stanley Peninsula and the South China Sea. At the foot of the Dragon's Back is the popular village Shek O with its sandy beaches and alfresco restaurants.

You will finish the walk by strolling through shaded tunnels of exotic vegetation. Then take transport back to Central, Hong Kong.