On your bike: six amazing cycling routes in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is home to a wealth of fantastic cycling routes which are often overlooked in favour of the city’s hiking trails. But with all the added health benefits that come with cycling – from weight loss and muscle toning to improved mental wellbeing and heart health – there's never been a better time to get on your bike.  

There are a number of bike paths for cyclists of all skill levels that make for a great day out, from easy harbourfront rides boasting skyline backdrops to guided mountain biking experiences – book yours through INVIS Cycling to discover more. 

Ready to get those wheels turning? Here are some of the best bike trails and cycling tracks in Hong Kong. 

1.   Cheung Chau  

This car-free outlying island is a charming getaway from city life and is easily accessible via ferry. Bicycles can be rented from shops along the waterfront and there’s a popular southern cycle route which takes you past neighbourhood street food stalls, temples and seafood restaurants. It’s the ideal beginner’s ride for those who are more interested in the views than in strenuous cardio. 

Distance: 3km 

Look out for: Cheung Po Tsai Cave, a 19th-century pirate’s bolthole 

How to get there: Take a ferry from Central’s Pier 5 to Cheung Chau, then turn right along the main stretch to reach a number of bike rental shops 

2.   Sha Tin to Tai Po/Tai Mei Tuk 

High-quality urban bike paths are hard to come by in the city, but this beloved traffic-free option is one of the best and longest cycling routes in Hong Kong. The route hugs the Shing Mun River before eventually arriving at Tai Po Waterfront Park – although keen cyclists can add an extra 8km ride which brings them to Tai Mei Tuk, and follows an arcing path across Plover Cove Reservoir’s serene lake. 

Distance: 22km 

Look out for: The golden egg-shaped statue at Hong Kong Science Park, which towers over visitors 

How to get there: Take the MTR to Tai Wai and leave at Exit A. There are a number of shops that offer bike rentals 

3.   Yuen Long to Nam Sang Wai 

If you’re looking to make a day of it, head to Hong Kong’s lush green countryside for a completely different side of the city. After renting a bike nearby Yuen Long MTR station, follow the signs to Nam Sang Wai for a slower pace of life surrounded by farms, fishponds and bird-filled wetlands. An 8km circular route will take you through Nam Sang Wai, where mangroves line Kam Tin River and the path dips between river red gum trees.  

Distance: 15km, including the Yuen Long portion 

Look out for: The wetland park’s teeming avian life, as areas of the park are significant migratory pit stops 

How to get there: Take the MTR along the Tung Chung Line to Nam Cheong, then swap to the West Rail line to reach Yuen Long 

4.   West Kowloon Art Park Promenade 

For postcard-perfect views of Victoria Harbour, head to West Kowloon Art Park for a short but striking ride. Cyclists can rent bikes through the park’s SmartBike system and follow the waterside path to take in Hong Kong’s impressive skyline. Afterwards, head to the park’s upscale food spots to refuel, then drop into one of the nearby art museums for a cultural workout.

Distance: 1.8km 

Look out for: M+, Hong Kong’s visual culture museum filled with contemporary Asian artwork and stunning architectural touches

How to get there: Take the MTR to Kowloon station, and it’s short walk from there to the art park

5. Wong Nai Chung Gap to Shek O – the Saturday Sir Island Classic

If you’re looking for a more strenuous route – and a group of like-minded souls – then South Island Road Cycling , a community for avid Hong Kong cyclists, regularly sets out on the challenging Saturday Sir Island Classic across the island. Riders meet at the crack of dawn on Saturdays at the Wong Nai Chung Gap before climbing up and barreling down some of the island’s steepest hills, including The Peak and Mount Butler - resulting in an adrenaline-pumping ride which will push you to your limits. The journey finishes in Shek O with a coffee and a debrief at Ming's, a charming seaside cafe – making it a great opportunity to build a family of fellow enthusiasts. The group also meet for mid-week rides, too.

Distance: 48km 

Look out for: Stunning skyline views as the road wends up and down through the fog – and the welcome sight of Shek O down below at the end of the ride

How to get there: The ride starts at Sinopec petrol station next to the Cricket Club at Wong Tai Chung gap – check the website for more details. 

6.   Chi Ma Wan Mountain Bike Trail 

Pump up the adrenaline with Lantau’s mountain biking trails. A more difficult route is the Chi Ma Wan trail, which takes you past sprawling coastal vistas and an eerie deserted prison. Rent a mountain bike from one of the bike shops nearby Mui Wo Ferry Pier and cycle over to the Chi Ma Wan trail, located next to the vibrant “Lung Mei” dragon’s tail statue). Full of ups and downs, the trail finishes on a high note with a speedy final descent – experienced bikers only need apply. 

Distance: 14.3km 

Look out for: Mui Wo’s vast selection of local seafood restaurants, located right next to the ferry pier.

How to get there: Take a ferry from Central Pier 6 to Mui Wo. Follow the signage nearby the small beach on the waterfront until you see the “Lung Mei” statue, where the Chi Ma Wan trail is signposted. 

Bumps and bruises may occur with cycling, but if for coverage beyond these scrapes look into the Cigna DIY Health Plan. This health insurance offering can be tailored to your specific needs, with premiums as low as HK$8 a day and the opportunity to earn 6,100 Asia Miles as a limited-time welcome bonus. 

Whichever route you opt for, be sure to download the Asia Miles by Cathay app and set out on your wellness journey: you’ll earn miles by logging your physical activity, and earn up to 2,555 miles per year when you meet six daily wellness goals with the virtual health companion.

Hero Image: iStock

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