The Highest Point on Hong Kong Island

Victoria Peak (太平山, The Peak), at 552 meters altitude, is the highest point on Hong Kong Island. It is also one of the city’s most iconic spots, offering spectacular views of skyscrapers, the harbor, and Kowloon.

A prestigious location, a promenade, and an observation point, it combines nature, urbanism, and colonial history.

An Iconic Skyline View

From the summit or viewing platforms, you can admire:

  • Victoria Harbour, with ferries moving about.
  • The towers of Central, including IFC, Bank of China, and Cheung Kong Center.
  • Kowloon on the horizon, sometimes shrouded in smog or subtropical mist.
  • The night light show, when the city illuminates itself.

It’s the ultimate photo spot, day or night.

The Peak Tram: A Historic Ride

The Peak Tram, a legendary funicular inaugurated in 1888, climbs to the summit in minutes, with slopes up to 48%:

  • Departure at Garden Road (near Admiralty).
  • Arrival at the modern Peak Tower, shaped like an inverted bowl.
  • At the top: Sky Terrace 428, a panoramic platform at 428 m altitude.

It’s one of the most spectacular and historic ways to reach The Peak.

Hiking Trails and Nature

Victoria Peak is not just a viewpoint. It’s also a protected green space:

  • Lugard Road and Harlech Road: easy loop (~3.5 km), shaded, with open views over the bay and urban jungle.
  • Victoria Peak Garden: peaceful former colonial garden, ideal for picnics.
  • Many wooded paths and quiet viewpoints to escape the crowds.

Tropical vegetation offers a cool, silent refuge, contrasting with the city.

History and Prestige

During colonial times, Victoria Peak was reserved for European residents, to escape the heat and diseases of lower elevations. Luxurious villas were built, now among Asia’s most expensive.

The Peak remains an upscale residential area, accessible by car, tram, or trails.

Things to Do at the Summit

  • Sky Terrace 428: panoramic observation deck (paid entry).
  • Peak Galleria: shopping mall, boutiques, restaurants with views.
  • Panoramic cafés: for drinks or desserts with a view.
  • Circular walk around the summit: accessible, shaded, perfect at sunset.

It’s a perfect spot for photographers, walkers, or those wanting a break above the city.

Visitor Tips

  • Best time: late afternoon to dusk.
  • Avoid weekends if possible (long waits for the tram).
  • Bring a light jacket, temperatures can be cooler up top.
  • Hiking up on foot (about 1 hour) is possible for motivated walkers.

Conclusion

Victoria Peak is Hong Kong’s living postcard. A dizzying panorama, colonial memory site, shaded trail, or balcony on modernity, it encapsulates the city’s verticality, energy, and complexity. Whether photographer, hiker, or curious visitor, The Peak is an unmissable experience.

At an altitude of 552 m, it is the highest point on the island.

Its panorama is exceptional.

Several ways to get there: on foot, by taxi, bus, or funicular.

Victoria Peak

The view from Victoria Peak, on the heights of Hong Kong, offers a magnificent view over the northern part of the island and the southern part of Kowloon.