Ma On Shan Country Park

Ma On Shan Country Park, straddling the Sai Kung and Sha Tin districts of Hong Kong's New Territories, is a rugged escape of steep hills, lush valleys, and dramatic coastal views. Named after its horse-saddle-shaped peak (Ma On Shan means 'Horse Saddle Mountain'), this park offers some of Hong Kong's most challenging and rewarding hikes, with a rich history of mining and wartime relics woven into the landscape. The park is a haven for hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers seeking solitude and sweeping panoramas of the Sai Kung coastline and beyond.

Highlights & What to See

• Ma On Shan Peak (702m): The park's centrepiece, a strenuous but spectacular climb rewarded with 360-degree views over Tolo Harbour, Sai Kung, and the outlying islands. The summit's distinctive saddle shape is best appreciated from afar.
• Pyramid Hill: A lesser-known but equally rewarding peak with a trig point and panoramic vistas; often combined with Ma On Shan for a longer traverse.
• Ma On Shan Village & Mines: Explore the remnants of the abandoned iron ore mining community, including concrete structures, tunnels, and the eerie 'Ghost Mine' – a fascinating glimpse into Hong Kong's industrial past.
• Ngong Ping Plateau: A serene grassy plateau offering a quieter alternative to the peaks, with views of the surrounding hills and a sense of wild openness.
• MacLehose Trail Stage 4 (partial): This section of the famous long-distance trail cuts through the park, passing through shady forests and open ridges, ideal for a day hike with varied scenery.

Suggested Time to Spend

For a solid hike up Ma On Shan Peak and back, allow a full day (5–7 hours) including travel time from central Hong Kong. A shorter visit of 3–4 hours can focus on the Ngong Ping Plateau and the mining relics. The park is best tackled in the cooler months (October to March) to avoid summer heat and humidity. Pack plenty of water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear – trails are steep and often exposed.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Sai Kung Town: A vibrant fishing port with seafood restaurants, boat trips to outlying islands, and the start of many coastal hikes.
• Sharp Peak (Nam She Tsim): Hong Kong's sharpest peak, a challenging climb just east of the park with jaw-dropping coastal views.
• Tai Long Wan (Big Wave Bay): A stunning series of beaches on the Sai Kung Peninsula, accessible via a scenic hike from the park or a boat ride from Sai Kung.
• Sha Tin: A bustling new town with the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery and the Hong Kong Heritage Museum, offering a cultural contrast to the natural park.

Please check official sources for current details.