The thing about being in the city that boasts the highest number of skyscrapers in the world is that you’re never far from a good vantage point.

But sometimes you have to work a little harder than reaching for the top button in an elevator to find the best views of Hong Kong. Here are five of my favourites.

Lantau Peak

Far from the claustrophobic streets of Kowloon, the trail to Lantau Peak showcases the other side of Hong Kong. The 934-metre-high mountain is a classic example of how many Hongkongers spend their weekends – escaping the concrete jungle and throwing themselves into a more natural one.

Views of the South China Sea, dozens of distant islands (and depending on the time of year, gigantic spiders) define this moderate hike not far from Hong Kong Airport.

Sai Kung Coast

Visitors to Hong Kong are often surprised by how much nature is on offer, and how beautiful it is. Catch a cab to the small fishing village of Sai Kung, then ride a rickety speedboat to one of the country park beaches like Ham Tin.

Forget the crystal-clear water and perfect beaches for a second, and lap up views of the jaw-dropping cliffs that jut out from the coastline. There’s a reason these towering rock faces are part of a Unesco Global Geopark.

Alto Bar, Causeway Bay

There is no shortage of rooftop bars in Hong Kong, and while many pride themselves on their floor number and skyline views, Alto thrusts you deep into the bustle and burst of colour in Causeway Bay.

Grabbing a drink here feels like you’re in the middle of Gotham City, with brightly lit billboards searing into your retinas on one side, Victoria Harbour glistening on the other, and super-tall buildings everywhere else you look.

Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok

Long a hallmark of Hong Kong’s nightlife, the cost and upkeep of the city’s famous neon signs mean many are sadly disappearing.

Efforts and exhibits to preserve these bright billboards are underway, but it’s common to see cherry-pickers on the streets looking to take them down. So turn on your camera’s night mode, and head to Mong Kok on Kowloon side to get some snaps while you still can.

Victoria Peak

There is much more to this Hong Kong Island high point than catching the tram to the top and turning around. Wander along Lugard Road (my personal favourite) to get even better sweeping views of the city.

Not only does this ridge give you a breathtaking glimpse straight up the middle of Victoria Harbour, but across to Lantau Island and mainland China beyond. For the extra adventurous, earn the view by hiking the steep but paved Morning Trail, and climb the 2000 steps to High West, where on some days the skyscrapers hide under a misty blanket of cloud beneath you.

Oh, and mind the wild boar walking the trails with you!

This story was produced as part of an editorial partnership with Hong Kong Tourism Board. Read more about our partnership content here.