Seen from Dragon’s Back trail, D’Aguilar Peak is a sight to behold. Today we will ascend this hill in southeastern Hong Kong. D’Aguilar Peak is also known as Hok Tsui Shan in Chinese. It reaches a height of 325 meters. The peak is named after Major-General Sir George Charles d’Aguilar.
D’Aguilar Peak ranks as the sixth highest in the Southern District. It proudly claims the second spot within Shek O Country Park. Speaking of prominence, D’Aguilar Peak excels. It ranks third in the Southern District. It also stands first within Shek O Country Park.
To reach D’Aguilar Peak’s summit requires a short hike. The hike takes about 30 minutes from Cape D’Aguilar Road. An alternative path exists. A steep rocky trail begins at Shek O Beach. This trail presents a more challenging ascent.
In 1975, an area on D’Aguilar Peak was designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. This site is located on the north-western slope. It lies south of Windy Gap. It covers an area of 5 hectares.
D’Aguilar Peninsula is named after Sir George Charles D’Aguilar. He was once the Lieutenant Governor of Hong Kong. The major mount in the area is D’Aguilar Peak. It houses a radio transmission station. Numerous terrestrial antennae are installed there.
Hiking to D’Aguilar Peak can be an adventure. One unmarked route begins at Shek O Beach. Hikers have marked the way with ribbons and chalk. The route ascends the mountain’s northern face. It passes through thick vegetation. Some sections feature bare rock. The climb can be steep. Some parts require climbing on all fours.
Once you reach D’Aguilar Peak, follow the transmission station access road. It leads down to Cape D’Aguilar. The rugged coastline presents an impressive sight.
Cape D’Aguilar is on the southeastern end of D’Aguilar Peninsula. Shek O and D’Aguilar Peak are to its north. The name Cape D’Aguilar appeared on a map in 1845. It was surveyed by Lieutenant Collinson and Sir John Francis Davis. The Chinese name likely originated from the nearby village Hoktsuewan.
Cape D’Aguilar Road provides access. The Hong Kong Government Gazette confirmed the name on April 12, 1935. Cape D’Aguilar is environmentally protected. It forms part of the Cape D’Aguilar Marine Reserve.
Popular sights near Cape D’Aguilar include the Bones of Miss Willy. This is a whale skeleton displayed at the University of Hong Kong’s Swire Institute of Marine Science. The Crab’s Eye is another attraction. It is a sea cave off Cape D’Aguilar Road. The Bokhara Battery’s remains can also be seen. It was used during the Battle of Hong Kong.
From its historical significance to its natural beauty, D’Aguilar Peak offers a rewarding experience. Its trails promise a journey through diverse landscapes. The panoramic views from the summit are simply stunning.