2 Devil’s Peak
Once occupied by pirates during the Ming dynasty—the most famous of whom was Cheng Lin-cheong—Devil’s Peak commands a favourable view over the Lei Yue Mun straits, which was classified as one of the 16 major sea passages during the time. For the same strategic reasons, the British later commandeered the area and built military stations, including two gun batteries named Gough and Pottinger.
Devil’s Peak then became part of the Gin Drinkers’ Line, a defensive line across Hong Kong’s natural geological ridges against the Japanese invasion. The ruins of Pottinger Battery have mostly been reclaimed by vegetation, but Gough Battery, a smaller outpost, and a redoubt on the summit of Devil’s Peak are still visible today.
The terrain on Devil’s Peak is very easy, so this is a family-friendly hike. From Yau Tong MTR station, head towards the Lei Yue Mun Estate, then go uphill towards the Tseung Kwan O Chinese Permanent Cemetery. The entrance to the Wilson Trail will be to your left, and from there it’s a simple matter of following signs up to Devil’s Peak.
About 350 metres in, you’ll want to go off-trail to the right and follow the signs for Devil’s Peak Fortifications, which will bring you up to the ruins of Gough Battery. When you’re done exploring, head back down the same way and rejoin the Wilson Trail, heading right to continue on to the peak.
The redoubt at the top offers great views of Junk Bay, LOHAS Park, and across Victoria Harbour to the Hong Kong skyline. The view here is more of the city than nature, and you can get a great contrast using the rocks and trees along the trail to frame the buildings in the background.
To end the hike, you can return the way you came, or head across the fortification to a little ladder that will lead you to a muddy dirt path downhill. When you get to a platform level, simply follow directions back to Yau Tong. You’ll want to take pictures so make sure you pack a portable battery for this hike!