Walking EuropeSok Kwu Wan to Yung Shue Wan, Lamma Island
Walk 6061
Country - HongKong
Author - Lou Johnson
Time - 2.00 hours
Grade - easy
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Much of the former British colony of Hong Kong is highly developed yet there are areas where the impact of modern development is much less and it is possible to get away from the noise of urban sprawl. The 'outlying islands' of Lamma and Cheung Chau both fall into this category and are largely traffic free. Both are easily reached by frequent, inexpensive ferry services from the Outlying Ferry Terminal on Hong Kong Island which is only a short walk from Central Station.
This walk follows a well made trail across Lamma Island from Sok Kwu Wan with its seafood restaurants and floating fish farms to Yung Shue Wan in northern Lamma where again there are many excellent seafood restaurants.
After landing at Sok Kwu Wan, bear right through the seafood restaurants lining the 'street'. Soon you reach an open area with a small temple on your left. Continue along the concrete path with the sea to your right. Out in the bay the fish farms dominate the scene. Generally the route is clear and well signed. Reaching the junction for Lo So Shing, bear right. If time is on your side then a diversion to the excellent beach at Lo So Shing is worthwhile. Because of its relatively remote location it sees fewer visitors.
Along the route there are limited opportunities to buy drinks although casual vendors are common during weekends and public holidays. After the junction the path climbs into the mountainous spine of the island before descending to the beach at Hung Shing Yeh. The only blot on the landscape is the power station, which provides most of Hong Kong’s electricity. A further 20 minutes or so from the beach will see you enter the final destination of Yung Shue Wan. Popular with westerners who want to escape the bustle of mainland Hong Kong the restaurants offer a mouth watering range of dishes.
All that remains is to catch a ferry back to Central. Cruising through the busy waters allows you time to reflect on this relatively peaceful corner of this Special Administrative Region of China.
Stay Safe
Do enjoy yourself when out walking and choose a route that is within your capabilities especially with regard to navigation.
Do turn back if the weather deteriorates especially in winter or when visibility is poor.
Do wear the right clothing for the anticipated weather conditions. If the weather is likely to change for the worse make sure you have enough extra clothing in your pack.
Do tell someone where you are planning to walk especially in areas that see few other walkers.
Do take maps and other navigational aids. Do not rely on mobile devices in areas where reception is poor. Take spare batteries especially in cold weather.
Do check the weather forecast before leaving. The Met Office has a number of forecasts for walkers that identify specific weather risks.
Please Note - These walks have been published for use by site visitors on the understanding that Walking Britain is not held responsible for the safety or well being of those following the routes as described. It is worth reiterating the point that you should embark on a walk with the correct maps preferably at 1:25000 scale. This will enable any difficulties with route finding to be assessed and corrective action taken if necessary.