Sunset Peak

By National Geographic

Sunset Peak (869 m), featuring gorgeous sunset views, is the third highest mountain in Hong Kong and proves to be a rewarding yet difficult climb. The expansive scenery from the top is truly impressive. Try going in autumn or winter: you will find the shiny seas of silvergrass along the trail unforgettable.

Lantau Trail

Begin your hike at Pak Kung Au between Lantau Peak and Sunset Peak. Trekking along the Lantau Trail toward Sunset Peak, be ready for a 2 km uphill climb. Luckily, much of the ascent is shaded. At the end, with only shrubs and tall grass along the trail, you’ll get panoramic views.

Sunset Peak

The ridge between Sunset Peak and Yi Tung Shan is a great site for photographing the seas of silvergrass that light up the surrounding slopes.

Lantau Mountain Camp, Yi Tung Shan & Nam Shan

While walking uphill, you will find stone sheds along the trail. The Lantau Mountain Camp was built almost a century ago as holiday accommodation for early British missionaries. Continue on the trail to begin your descent towards Yi Tung Shan and Nam Shan.

Luk Tei Tong Watch Tower

When descending towards Nam Shan, watch your step on the flight of stone steps. Then take the old village path toward Mui Wo. After about 20 minutes on the path, you will see the sturdy granite Luk Tei Tong Watch Tower that was built in 1942. After walking for about 15 minutes on the village path, you will arrive at Mui Wo, your destination.

Trip ideas:

If you choose to end your hike at Nam Shan, you can take bus 1, 2, 3M, or 4 to Mui Wo, or 3M to MTR Tung Chung Station. The bus stop is on South Lantau Road.
If you’ve still got energy after the hike, continue on the seaside path for a swim at the beautiful beach in Silver Mine Bay.
If you plan to watch the sunset here, check the Hong Kong Observatory website for the exact sunset time. It is also essential to bring along torches or headlamps.
Don’t pick the wild plants.

Info

Area:: Islands District
Starting point:: Pak Kung Au
End point:: Mui Wo
Average hiking time:: 4.5 hours
Distance:: About 9 km
Refuel:: There are no kiosks along the way, so it’s best to stock up at Tung Chung before the hike. After the hike, Mui Wo is a good stop. Treat yourself at one of its many cafés and restaurants.
Difficulty:: Difficult

Substantial ascent in the first half of the trail and exposed environment on the ridge; descent by a long flight of stone steps.

How to get there

To the starting point:
From MTR Tung Chung Station Exit B, take bus 3M, 11, or 23 at Tung Chung Bus Terminus and get off at Pak Kung Au.

From the end point:

At Mui Wo Bus Terminus, take bus 3M to MTR Tung Chung Station.
Take the ferry from Mui Wo to Central.

See what's nearby

Sunset Peak

Shing Mun Country Park

Ping Shan Heritage Trail

Lung Yeuk Tau Heritage Trail