If you're a hiker or love the feel and smell of the outdoors, now is the perfect time to be in Hong Kong. It may be surprising to some, but you can find hundreds of wonderful trails and marvelous viewpoints just outside of the city. After a few days in the cement metropolis of Hong Kong, you'll want to refresh your lungs and venture to the wilderness. Winter is the perfect time to hike because the weather has finally cooled down; during the summer, hiking in Hong Kong can be downright dangerous because of the risk of dehydration. Hiking in Hong Kong during winter is far more enjoyable and safe - but you still need to remember to bring a good hat, water, and sunscreen.

Beginners

For an easier hike, make your way to the Peak (or Victoria Peak) on Hong Kong Island. You'll find a great trail with breathtaking views along Lugard and Harlech roads. From the top of the tram station, take a right onto Lugard Road. The "Road," which is more of a foot path, hugs the contours of the peak and meanders through lush, dark-green woodlands. After about 10 to 15 minutes of hiking, the trees will start to dwindle and the views will take your breath away. If you wish to keep walking, follow Harlech road and do the Peak Circuit. Of all the things to do in Hong Kong in winter, hiking is by far the most scenic!

Advanced

For a more challenging and spectacular hike, set your sights on Parkview. This difficult hike has a steep beginning which can challenge even an Olympic athlete so, instead, start where the Hong Kong and Wilson trails run together. After a few minutes of climbing, you'll feel your heart working and your lungs breathing harder. Be sure to listen to your body! If you feel like you need a break, take one. After a short while of hiking, you'll be able to look back and see the gorgeous rolling hills behind you, and Victoria Harbor will be a speck below. There are numerous available trails for things to do in Hong Kong winters.

As you continue along the Hong Kong trail, you'll make your way to Butler Peak. At the top, you'll get a 360-degree view; look down at the harbor, the surrounding city, the smaller peaks and hills, as well as the Tai Tam reservoirs low in a valley on the other side. For most avid hikers, this should be a long enough excursion; however, if you wish to keep hiking, continue following the Hong Kong trail, which will lead you down past the reservoirs.

Hiking is one of the best things to do in the Hong Kong winter so if you have a chance, you might want to venture further and take a hike where you can enjoy both views of the city and the countryside with the Lion Rock hike. Approach Lion Rock from the Maclehose Trail from around the Kowloon Reservoirs. The trail covers an interesting variety of terrain, hilltops, a steep summit up to a ridge, and a walk along the ridge. At one point, you'll see a sign stating that the top is only 400 meters away. Don't get your hopes up too soon; this could well be the hardest and steepest 400 meters of your life. Once you push yourself and reach the top, you'll enjoy stunning views in all directions, Sha Tin to the north, Tai Mo Shan to the west, and Ma On Shan to the east. Relax and take in the scenery; you deserve it. Make sure to bring your camera because this will be the most picturesque of all of the things to do in Hong Kong winter!