Many people think that Hong Kong is just one island, but as well as the main peninsula, its territory actually covers over 200 offshore islands.
The largest island is Lantau that lies to the west of the territory and strikes a stark contrast to the busy streets of mainland Kowloon. Lantau is naturally beautiful with forested mountains and sandy beaches.
The opening of the Lantau link road and rail bridges in the late 1990s brought an influx of new residents and visitors.
The island today is an attractive tourist destination with many good reasons to visit. Here’s a guide to the top five:
1) Hiking and Biking
Lantau’s dramatic, mist-shrouded hills are perfect for lovers of the great outdoors.
A large proportion of Lantau’s forested hills are protected national park, and the 70 km Lantau trail is a great way to explore and enjoy the area.
The trail loops around the island, following the coast in parts and heading up through the trees in others, so there is no need to double back.
It also takes in Lantau Peak, which at 934 metres above sea level is the island’s highest point.
2) Ngong Ping 360
This cable car has become one of Hong Kong’s major attractions. It takes riders up over the mountains of Lantau.
At the bottom of the cable car stand the Tin Tan Buddha, the world’s largest seated Buddha, and the Ngong Ping Village.
The village is designed to tell the story of the area’s cultural history, and includes some good dining and shopping options. Guided tours of the area and entertainment shows are also available.
3) Dolphin Spotting Cruises
The waters just off Lantau are home to a population of white Chinese dolphins, also known as pink dolphins – special eco tours will take you on a trip around Lantau, the best of which are operated by Dolphinwatch.
With a success rate of 96% they know how to track down the dolphins. If you don’t quite manage to catch up with any, tour goers are offered a place on another trip for free. During the three-hour tour you can expect to see dolphins swimming and at play.
4) Time on the Beach
Lantau’s uncrowded rural areas make the perfect antidote to time in busy Kowloon. You can just sit back and relax, or hire out windsurfing equipment and canoes on Cheung Sha beach.
The waters around Lantau are generally calm and safe for swimming. Some beaches are busier than others, and some have better facilities. You should be able to find one that suits you.
5) Hong Kong Disneyland
Hong Kong Disneyland is everything you would expect: loud, busy and lots of fun. It has numerous rides, shows, shops and restaurants. There are five different areas that include a Toy Story section, Americana and space.
The park includes attractions for all ages, from Fantasyland’s castles and princesses, to the boat-trips and tree houses of Adventureland.
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