By Hilary Wong
I guess we have had enough of being trapped at our homes amidst the 5th wave of COVID-19. As spring has approached with the luminous blossoms, nature is definitely calling us for some exercise and fresh air. From outlying islands to local farms, we have compiled a list of phenomenal spots to visit this spring, or even summer. It is not anything like your ordinary weekend trip to Cheung Chau or the Peak, but fascinating activities in which you could pick your own strawberries, interact with some adorable animals, learn more about Hakka culture and many more! Read on for some ideas on your next adventure.
Outlying Islands:
1. Tap Mun
Tap Mun is often referred to as “Grass Island”, as the island is composed of a vast grassland where you could just run around without limits. People like to camp or picnic here, since the spot is just so spacious overlooking the deep-blue ocean from 360 degrees. If you are lucky enough, you could hang out with the cows that inhabit here. Finish the journey by visiting the rustic fishing villages —Tap Mun New Fishermen’s Village and Yung Shu Village. You could slow down your footsteps while getting the authentic tastes of a fisherman’s life. As a side note, there is a 400-year-old Tin Hau Temple on the island. Do check it out if you are praying for safety and fortune lately.
How to get there?
- Walk from University MTR Station Exit B, to Ma Liu Shui Ferry Pier for a kaito
- Take bus 94 from Sai Kung to Wong Shek Pier for a kaito
2. Mui Wo
For a unique meal and stroll along the beach (which will be reopened later during the relaxation of social distancing measures), head off to Mui Wo by ferry from the Central Pier. Here, you will find the perfect balance between urbanization and rural beauty. We suggest stopping by at Bahce Turkish for an exotic Turkish lunch first, then check out the short but infinitely broad Silvermine Waterfall. If you need coffee to recharge before you go, there are plenty of charming cafes you could choose from, such as the newly launched coffee spot The Hideout and the minimalistic white-hued Pause Cafe.
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How to get there?
- Take the ferry from Central Pier Number 6
- Take bus 3M at Tung Chung Terminus
3. Peng Chau
Another island that is also relatively convenient is Peng Chau, where you could reach in half an hour after hopping on a ferry at Central Pier. Apart from a beginner-friendly hike at Finger Hill that takes around 1.5 hour, the picturesque Leather Factory is somewhere you shouldn’t miss. This “secret garden” on the island is a go-to place for some vintage and artsy vibes. Opened in the 1930s, Peng Chau Leather Factory was listed as a Grade III historic building in Hong Kong and was retouched by a local artist in 2010. As you walk along the vibrant alley saturated with colorful graffiti and artwork, it will take you to a small yard that showcases an alfresco art exhibition meticulously made with old, discarded items.
How to get there?
- Take the ferry from Central Pier Number 6
4. Lai Chi Wo
Once an abandoned isle, Lai Chi Wo is now a successful example of a sustainable rural revitalization project. Situated near the New Territories’ northeast coast, immerse yourself in the traditional yet captivating Hakka culture at the 300-year-old Hakka village in Lai Chi Wo. As one of Hong Kong’s oldest and most well-preserved settlements, the village was a winner of UNESCO’s prestigious 2020 Special Recognition for Sustainable Development award. Not only is the island culturally-sustainable, but also environmentally. From the stunning mangrove forest to the diversified butterfly species, be impressed by the island’s biodiversity at Lai Chi Wo Nature Trail.
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How to get there?
- Walk from MTR University Station, Exit B, to Ma Liu Shui Landing No. 3 for the ferry to Lai Chi Wo
5. Po Toi Island
Despite having the nickname—”South Pole of Hong Kong”, Po Toi Island is in fact not that out of reach and is a great place for some lush sceneries. You need not miss Po Toi if you are an enthusiast of archaeology or geography, as the island is renowned for its prehistoric rock carvings as well as well-weathered granite. Need something delightful to fill up your belly after an exhilarating hike? The island assures to serve you with homey food that reminds you of childhood. As Po Toi used to rely heavily on dried seaweed, you will be amazed with the noodles that are topped with readily-harvested seaweed and crispy sunny-side up eggs.
How to get there?
- Take the kaito at Aberdeen Pier. The service operates only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays
- Take a kaito at Stanley Blake Pier. The service operates only on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
Farms:
1. Go Green Organic Farm
This humid and warm weather certainly makes us crave for icy, appetizing pineapples. Go Green Organic Farm is indeed a pineapple farm, where you could savor a variety of pineapple snacks, such as Hong Kong-style pineapple buns, pineapple ice cream and even Taiwanese pineapple cakes. That being said, the farm is also filled with decorations revolving around the theme of pineapples. What’s more, and is the most fascinating part of the farm, is the alpaca land! There are four alpacas on the farm that you can interact with. Feeding those lovely alpacas is definitely the best way to help you de-stress after an exhausting week.
How to get there?
- 5 minutes walk from Kam Sheung Road MTR Exit A
Address: Sze Pai Shek, Kam Tin, Yuen Long, New Territories, Hong Kong
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
2. Shun Sum Yuen
Shun Sum Yuen was one of the most instagrammable spots in Hong Kong last summer because of its enormous and elegant sunflower field. Sized at 35,000 square feet, the farm presents you with a promising floral view that you seldom come across in Hong Kong. Though it is not the growing season for sunflowers yet, the field is now blooming with dreamy lavender that takes your weekend getaway to the next level. Further to that, the farm has transformed into a “mini Japan” with themed installations, ranging from a man-made red torii gate to a wisteria tunnel. When the farm reopens, you could regain the long-lost feeling of traveling here at Shun Sum Yuen.
How to get there?
- Take bus 76K or red minibus 17 at Sun Yuen Long Centre
- Take green minibus 78 at Kam Sheung Road MTR station
Address: San Tin, Yuen Long, Hong Kong
Opening Hours: (Closed Until Further Notice)
3. Long Ping Strawberry Farm
Nothing beats a fun-packed day out picking your own strawberries. There is no entrance fee required to enter the farm so you just have to pay for the strawberries you pick. With an area of 5,0000 ft, there are 10 varieties of Japanese strawberries and two Taiwanese ones for you to select from. Berries are in-season from December to April, so hurry up and grab some crimson and sweet strawberries when they are at their best! If you are not a fan of strawberries, you could opt for grapes, which just taste equally fresh.
How to get there?
- Take Bus K66 at Long Ping MTR station
- Take red minibus to Tai Tong at Kolour, Yuen Long
Address: D.D.117, Lot 500&501, Part A, Tai Tong Road, Yuen Long, Hong Kong
Opening hours: Mon-Sun, 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
4. Nature’s Harvest
Nature’s Harvest is the best way for you to enjoy the wild in a comprehensive way. From bushcraft workshops to a glamping experience at a Mongolian yurt, unwind at this boutique organic farm nestled in Clear Water Bay, Sai Kung. From time to time, the owner rolls out seasonal packages for a full experience at the farm. “March • Let’s Spring Begins” is the current plan which is themed around tomatoes. Visitors get to pick their own cherry tomatoes for making puffy tomato tarts and Omipork spaghetti bolognese. Reconnect with nature through the wide array of nature, culinary, and wellness activities.
*Advanced booking required
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How to get there?
- Head off to HKUST Northern Gate Bus Station; Walk 10-15 minutes to the farm
Address: Pak Shui Wun, Sai Kung
Opening Hours: Tue – Sun, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Closed on Monday except for public holidays)
5. Bunny Wonderland
Positioned as a family-friendly music farm, Bunny Wonderland is best for kids to learn more about rabbits and reptiles in a fun and casual way. The farm also offers younger guests with a series of exciting games, including a challenging rope course, grass skiing and DIY workshops. As for adults, we believe that touching the fluffy bunnies will leave you with a big smile on your face. The farm also provides BBQ and camping equipment for you to chill out a bit under the starry night sky. In short, whether you are an adult or a kid, Bunny Wonderland is where you should explore for your next vacation.
*Advance booking required
How to get there?
- Take Minibus 608 or Bus 45 / 251B at Yuen Long Fau Tsoi Street
Address: 1 Chi Ma Leng, Wing Ning Le, Wang Toi Shan, Pat Heung, Yuen Long
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.