High in the hills, the wind whispers tales of Tai Long Au. Tai Long Au is a mountain pass. It offers more than just a path. It’s a gateway to stunning vistas and challenging trails.
Tai Long Au, a natural saddle, sits at 153 meters. Imagine the early morning sun. It casts long shadows. Hikers start their trek toward Tai Long Wan.
Tai Long Wan is a large bay. It is located in Sai Kung East Country Park. The bay includes four beaches. These beaches are Tung Wan, Tai Wan, Ham Tin, and Sai Wan. They stretch from north to south.
For years, reaching Tai Long Wan’s famous beaches seemed hard. Some thought a private helicopter was the only way. Others considered a boat from Sai Kung. That would cost $200 per person. The most daunting option was hiking the MacLehose Trail. This meant tackling an estimated 17-kilometer hike.
Then, a secret emerged. Stage 2 of the MacLehose Trail could be done in reverse. This made it easier. The beaches were only a 6-kilometer hike away. The hike was relatively easy. It took about one and a half hours.
Ham Tin Wan is one of the Tai Long Wan beaches. One can grab a hasty bowl of noodles. Then continue the trek for three-and-a-half kilometers. This leads to a 246-metre peak. It offers amazing views. The journey finishes at Sai Wan Pavilion. From there, a taxi back to Sai Kung town is a welcome sight.
Sai Wan is also the location of the famous ‘secret’ rock pools. They are definitely worth a visit.
Pak Tam Au provides another access point. It is inside the Sai Kung Country Park. Access by private car requires a permit. The Pak Tam Chung Visitor Centre offers parking. But it fills up quickly on weekends. Public transport is often best. KMB bus 94 goes to Wong Shek Pier. The No. 7 Green Mini Bus goes to Hoi Ha from Sai Kung town.
On Sundays and public holidays, the 96R bus runs from Diamond Hill MTR. It takes about an hour. Green taxis are available from Sai Kung town. They also run from Pak Tam Chung. A taxi costs around $100. The hike ends at Sai Wan Pavilion. Green taxis or the 29R minibus provide transport from there.
Imagine families making their way. Parents walk with their children. Some parents even push strollers. The path is paved. It is suitable for fit parents with toddlers or babies.
Tai Long Au isn’t just a saddle. It’s an experience. It connects you to nature’s beauty. It offers trails for every adventurer. Whether you seek a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, Tai Long Au offers a path. It leads to unforgettable memories of Tai Long Wan. So breathe deep. Feel the wind. Let Tai Long Au guide your way.