Mount Austin also known as Victoria Peak and more commonly referred to as simply the Peak, in Hong Kong is the island’s highest point that allows for a spectacular panoramic view of the entire city.
Due to its cooler climate of the Peak and its exclusivity in terms of exceptional views, the site is a popular residential area for the affluent and mainly non Chinese community. However, today residency is based solely on wealth. In the past sedan chairs had to be used to travel back and forth to the Peak however with the advent of Asia’s first funicular tram, traffic to the site grew beyond expectations and plans for expansion and development were put into place.
Today the area attracts over seven million visitors a year. The tram ride to and from the site is an exciting journey in itself and the gradient at which the journey takes you makes the skyscrapers and other buildings go past at unnatural and fascinating angles. Once you arrive here, the Peak Tower gives you a wonderful observation platform as well as an interesting entertainment and shopping experience. The shops offer whimsical and historical souvenirs that aptly showcase the rich history and journey of Hong Kong. There are many dining options as well which offer an eclectic array of cuisine.
The highest point of the peak lies at around 1,300 feet. The Sky Terrace is located at the Peak Tower and is the best place to catch the changing views that dance across the landscape at different times of the day. The Sky Gallery is a section that is open free of charge to the public and showcases the varying talents of local artistes.
On your next trip no matter how busy your schedule may be do not miss out on an opportunity to visit the Peak because it will certainly be an experience that is worth your time.
If you are planning to visit the island and are on the lookout for a Hong Kong boutique hotel from which to base yourself at, consider a comfortable and centrally located option such as Cosmo Hotel which is a highly rated and much acclaimed 4 star hotel Hong Kong.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
