Victoria Peak provides the most famous views  of Hong Kong. It is a must see for any traveler to the island and it's almost worth making the trip twice- once in daylight and once at dark.
The Peak has long been the most expensive and exclusive area of Hong Kong. Before the arrival of the Peak tram in 1888, the wealthy were carried up the mountain in sedan chairs. In colonial times too, this was the most prestigious district and many governors and business men bought extortionately priced houses up here, away from the smog and heat below. Today, nothing much has changed and this remains THE place where the fashionable and rich make their homes-snapping up houses at prices which are among the most expensive for real estate anywhere in the world.
It is not hard to see why this area is so popular when you reach the top. The views from the Peak Tower are truly spectacular and this is also a great place to get your bearings of Hong Kong and Kowloon. The Peak Tower stands at 400 m above sea level and was built to withstand all typhoons. This is where the Peak Tram terminates and the Tower contains various entertainment facilities (most are great fun for kids), shops and a few cafes. Check out the prices in the estate agents window in the Tower for property on the Peak if you fancy a pad up here!
Standing next to the Tower is the Peak Galeria. This is another complex filled with restaurants, bars, shops and even a McDonalds. Both these shopping complexes slightly spoil the area and it can be nice to take a walk away from the crowds and commercialism to the real peak of the mountain.
Walking half a kilometer to the west of the Tower brings you to the Old Governors Mountain Lodge and Gardens. This is actually the real Peak, situated 140 meters above the Tower. The lodge itself is a ruin today, but the gardens are very pleasant, offering an alternative to the tower but equally impressive view in a more peaceful setting. There are numerous paths and tracks around the Peak and this is a popular spot for jogging and walking with the ex-pats who live up here. A particularly nice walk is around and down to Hong Kong University. Walk west of the peak along Lugard Road and follow the path down hill. Finally, there is also a popular walk with locals slightly lower down the hill at Bowen Road. This route affords great views and eventually takes you down to Hong Kong University.
If you get hungry and thirsty up here, the Peak Cafe is a nice place to try. In summer, there are tables out the back with gorgeous views over the island bays and it is especially nice at sunset. The food and drink are good though expensive. The other restaurant that is good up here is Cafe Deco. This restaurant serve all kinds of international cuisine. Again, prices are not cheap, but the views (if you get a window seat) are spectacular. |