Mount Nicholson

Perched high above the city, Mount Nicholson stands as a silent observer of Hong Kong’s ever-evolving story. Mount Nicholson isn’t just a peak on a map. It’s a treasure trove of history, nature, and even a touch of intrigue. Named after Lieutenant W.C.A. Nicholson of the Hong Kong Volunteer Corps, Mount Nicholson rises to a height of 430 meters. Its peak offers breathtaking views, but it’s also crowned with microwave equipment for television broadcasting, fenced off and topped with barbed wire, adding a mysterious air to this natural wonder. In August 1940, Mount Nicholson played host to the 1st Rover Moot in Hong Kong, a gathering of scouts that etched another memory into the mountain’s history. Imagine young scouts, gathered on the slopes, their laughter echoing through the trees. Today, the southern flank of Mount Nicholson is traced by the Hong Kong Trail Section 4, known as Black’s Link. This trail invites you to explore the mountain’s beauty up close. As you walk, you might encounter wild boars, porcupines, or even stray cats that call this area home. Mount Nicholson also boasts unique botanical treasures. Two plant species native to Hong Kong, Camellia hongkongensis and Rhododendron hongkongensis, were first discovered here, adding a touch of scientific significance to this already fascinating location. On the mountain’s south face lies the Nam Fung Road fung shui wood, a protected area designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1993. This 4-hectare (some sources say 8) woodland is a testament to the importance of preserving the natural heritage of Mount Nicholson. So, as you gaze up at Mount Nicholson, remember, it’s more than just a mountain. It’s a blend of history, nature, and a hint of mystery, waiting to be explored.