Lantau Peak is the highest peak on Lantau Island and the second highest in Hong Kong. At 934m above sea level, it offers 360 views of Lantau Island and the South China Sea. It’s hard not to be blown away by one of the best views in Hong Kong hence made it as 1 of my favorite hikes and on my list for one of the most Instagrammable places in Hong Kong.

There are few ways to start the hike but my suggestion is to start from Pak Kung Au. There are buses that you can take from Tung Chung MTR to Pak Kung Au. Pak Kung Au is located at the end of Stage 2 and the beginning of Stage 3 of the Lantau trail between Sunset Peak and Lantau Peak.

The hike is relatively hard as the inclines starts immediately with steps taking you to the first ridge. Then it is all completely upwards all the way to the peak. You hoped that the next 3 peaks were all Lantau Peak but there is always a higher and steeper one up ahead so don’t be fooled by the false summits.

The beginning is relatively shaded but it does not last too long before you get to the exposed and open ridge.

You will find a few intersections at the beginning of the trail but the trail to Lantau Peak continues straight ahead and that is where you need to go. Basically it’s climbing 3 consecutive hills before reaching Lantau Peak!

My advise is take your time and go at a pace that you’re comfortable with. Appreciate the views from every angle as you make your way to the peak. As you start at the base of every flight of steps take a deep breath and be mentally prepared for the climb and go.

The steps and incline can be pretty daunting and intimidating but like I said enjoy the view as you make your way to the first hill. When you get to the top of the first hill, take a break and if you walk a few metres ahead of the first hill, there’s a viewpoint with a couple of benches. Enjoy the view.

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As you continue from the viewpoint, you’ll be greeted with the second hill. The initial flat terrain is welcoming but it is not long til you see another flight of steps right ahead to the second hill followed by another flight of steps. Yes it does seems endless but do take your time as you conquer these steps and do stop to enjoy the incredible view.

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Once you get to the end of the second hill, the trail flattens out but it is not long before the third hill and another flight of steps are staring at you and it’s like deja vu at this point.

The third and final hill/climb is the toughest and the longest. Nonetheless it is the most scenic and fortunately the views get better as you gain elevation. As you begin climbing the third hill, look back and take a look at where you started, the section of the Lantau trail that you’ve covered and if you look across, there’s the majestic Sunset Peak.

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As you climbed higher, you’ll find the incredible view of Lantau Island, the airport, Tong Fok, Pui O and Cheung Sha Beaches and the Dog Teeth ridges. Take a break and capture photos of these beautiful surroundings. Any excuse to take a break is always welcome otherwise the hike could be a constant difficult climb.

It took me about an hour 45 mins to get to the top of Lantau Peak but I have to say it seems like forever but I am definitely excited and thrilled to be able to conquer this majestic volcanic hill. Once again I cannot mentioned enough on how amazing the view from Lantau Peak is. Needless to say when you’re standing at the highest point on Lantau Island, there’s no obstruction to the views.

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After admiring the views and the break at the top of Lantau Peak, it’s time to head down. You can end the hike either by going back down to Pak Kung Au and take the bus back to Tung Chung MTR or continue downhill to Ngong Ping Village. You can find Shek Pik reservoir and the Dog Teeth Ridge as descent down and in my opinion it is the most picturesque of the trail.

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The trail down is almost completely downhill with a couple of flat sections. Make sure to be very careful as the steps are very steep. In my case, l found the descent tougher on the knees than the climb up to Lantau Peak. The trail will end at Wisdom Path and Ngong Ping Village. From here you can take a bus, cab or cable car back to Tung Chung.

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