Hong Kong has some spectacular hiking trails within easy distance of the city centre. Perhaps none so famous, beautiful, or accessible as the Dragon’s Back. With a toddler in tow, and keen to explore some of Hong Kong’s beautiful scenery, without too much effort, we decided this would be the perfect day hike for us to attempt.

Getting there
From our base in Kennedy Town we caught the MTR to Shau Kei Wan Station. Exit the station at exit A and walk to the Shau Kei Wan Bus Terminus. Take bus 9 or the minibus with the sign ‘Shek O’ next to the bus terminus. Alight at To Tei Wan, Shek O Road. Stock up on water and snacks at the station as this is the last place to buy anything before you end your hike at Big Wave Bay or Shek O!

The trail
The hike starts with a long climb up lots of stairs, and is gently undulating for the rest of the trail, with some fairly steep sections. It is hot and exposed during the middle of the day, so bring lots of water, sunscreen and hats. Once you reach the high point, with stunning views over the surrounding coastline, mountains and distant city, it is a gradual downhill, before a long, flat section through a shaded forest. Once you come to the end of the trail you have a few options, one is to carry on to Big Wave Bay, the other is to walk down to the road and catch a bus to the cute, seaside town of Shek O.

Seaside sustenance in Shek O
We opted to catch a bus to Shek O and after descending the bus at the bus stop we walked to the lovely, white sand covered beach Shek O Bay, before heading back across the car park for a delicious Thai Meal (at a restaurant I forgot to write the name of!) and Layla’s first taste of fresh coconut! We were very hot and sweaty after our walk, so if you have the time, I would definitely recommend packing your swimmers and plunging into the sea to celebrate your efforts!