Date: Jan 2nd 2022

THE PEAK (POK FU LAM COUNTRY PARK)

New R+R route for the nuevo año. Hard to believe it’s taken this long to map a Peak route; we’ve obvs run here before as it’s the start of the HK Trail as well as the annual Green Power Hike. But this was our first visit to map out a R+R track. This route is a challenge worthy of such a stunning location and brings into play HK Trail’s inviting early stages. Just before reaching the Aberdeen Reservoir - location of another R+R route - we turn back and up towards the Peak with a challenging hill climb + fast, flat run to finish.

THE RIDE 🔥🔥

Always fun snaking up the gentle twists and turns of Stubbs Road which flows seamlessly into Peak Road for more of the same. The views get better with altitude so increasing discipline required to keep eyes on the road. Unsurprisingly a favourite challenge for HK’s cyclists; I’m personally v happy with a motor for this leg of the journey but full respect to those without👊

Most visitors to the Peak stop at the Lookout level but there’s a final riding treat in store by taking a steep left up Mount Austin Rd, winding a path up past some classic remnants of HK’s colonial past, including an impressive gatehouse and the attractively secluded Victoria Peak Gardens. Pull into bike parking at the very top with a big grin, for unparalleled panoramic views of the west of the Island.

START / FINISH POINT 🅿️🏪🚻

Good parking options for bike and car (though the latter fills up quickly). There’s a well-stocked convenience store and toilets nearby, so a great base, especially given its relatively isolated location.

THE RUN 🍺🍺🍺

The run divides approx. evenly into three segments; the first takes you straight down Governer’s Walk until meeting the flat of Luggard Rd, joining the HK Trail which loops around the west of the mountain, opening up towering views above Kennedy Town and then Pok Fu Lam.

A combination of paved roads and steps give way to some more inviting, covered forest trails and undulating paths, until reaching Peel Rise where we take a sharp left up the hill side. This marks the second stage of the run, comprising a long, steepish hill climb, contrasting pleasantly with the faster running, early stage. Whilst we love a firm, fast trail for running (clue’s in the name 😜), a good hill/mountain climb demands a slower pace (for us anyway!) and time for quiet introspection, taking in the surroundings and nature’s various sights and sounds🧘

Back at Peak level we once again lengthen our stride, passing the Lookout and embarking on a victory lap around the Peak, the third and final phase of the run. Finally, ascending Mount Austin Rd, we take a left at the blue & white Gate Lodge and back along and past those picturesque Victoria Peak Gardens.

TIDBITS + TAPAS 🤔

The blue & white building featured in the above photo was originally one of two gate lodges providing access to Mountain Lodge, the Governer’s summer residence on the Peak. Back in the day (early 1900’s) it was considered amongst the most striking architectural (Renaissance style Scottish lodge), sights on the Peak. The more modern pavilion now standing across from our parking area occupies the original site of the lodge. Can you imagine the views🤯 Whilst the lodge was demolished in 1946 this last remnant was at least left behind and together with the adjacent Victoria Peak Gardens, acts as reminder of a bygone era.

NEW RECRUIT 🐶

Large Dog: Bestie of humankind and ideal trail companion. More a walker than runner but throw him a bone and he’ll keep the pace. Expert at sniffing out scooby snacks so reliable source of provisions on those long trail runs. Raggy!