There are so many wonderful hikes in Hong Kong it's hard to select just one or two.

But on HK Island I'd suggest Jardine's Lookout, which has the grandest view of the harbour, especially late in the afternoon.

And in the New Territories I'd suggest Tai Long Wan on the Sai Kung Peninsula.

These are both well-known hikes and you can easily find directions online.

If you really want to get away from it all, there's Lantau.

Hong Kong's one of the world's great urban areas, but that can be deceptive: when hiking in the countryside you have to be very prepared. In the summer especially that means water (and more water), a map, a mobile, and sun protection, especially for your head. And don't head out unless you've checked the weather forecast first. Sad things do happen to people up on the hills.

And just so you're not startled, be aware that snakes are not particularly rare in the Hong Kong countryside. And if you're not used to the heat, humidity and sun of a HK summer, don't undersestimate their effects. Most HK trails rise and fall, and an easy trail in January can be hell in July.