Heading outdoors might not be the first activity that comes to mind when visiting one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. But this urban jungle is built around verdant hills and surrounded by seas – a prime setting to try a new sport while taking in the surprising nature, modern beauty and summer heat that is Hong Kong.

Wakeboarding

A cooler version of waterskiing, wakeboarding has gained popularity as a weekend activity in Hong Kong. The high-speed sport involves riding a board on a water surface – experts would show off jumps and flips – while the rider is pulled by a boat. Companies that run wakeboarding trips are mostly based in Sai Kung in the New Territories and Tai Tam on Hong Kong Island. Rates average about $700 per hour or per lesson, and the fee includes the boat, equipment and coaching. Each boat can carry around five to 10 people, so it’s great for families and groups. Operators to try: Hong Kong Wakeboard (tel: 9021 4221) in Sai Kung, Wakeaholic (tel: 9222 7887) on Lantau Island, Tai Tam Wakeboarding Center (tel: 3120 4102) and Wakeboarder.hk (tel: 9759 8060), both in Tai Tam.

Windsurfing

Hong Kong’s only Olympic gold medal was won in windsurfing in 1996, and the sport was propelled from obscurity seemingly overnight. Windsurfing calls for strength, endurance and strong swimming skills, but if you are up for the challenge, equipment and coaching are readily available at various beaches across the city. Ask about rentals and lessons at St Stephen’s Beach Water Sports Centre (tel: 2813 5407) in Stanley, Windsurfing Centre (tel: 2792 5605) in Sai Kung, Long Coast Sea Sports (tel: 8104 6222) on Lantau Island and Cheung Chau Windsurfing Centre HK (tel: 9770 0831) on Cheung Chau. If you require lessons in English, be sure to specify this preference when booking.

Cycling

Sha Tin in the New Territories is Hong Kong’s major cycling area, with bicycle paths that lead to Tai Po and Tai Mei Tuk. The paths are mostly flat, well-paved and breakthtakingly scenic, but they can get very crowded with cyclists at the weekends. Take the MTR to Tai Wai station where the bike path starts and where there are numerous inexpensive bike rental shops. Shek O, Lamma Island, Cheung Chau and Lantau Island also have bike rentals to allow a leisurely exploration of the villages and hills. Mountain biking was outlawed until recently, but now trails can be found in 10 country parks. Gaining access might be a bit tricky for visitors; you will need to apply for a free permit beforehand and have the necessary safety equipment. For more information on mountain biking trails and permits, visit www.afcd.gov.hk

Hiking

The city has countless hiking trails, ranging from beginners’ walks on Hong Kong Island to more strenuous climbs in the New Territories. A favourite hike for all levels is the Dragon’s Back, so called because it runs along a mountain ridge resembling the undulating spine of a dragon. Beginning at Tai Tam Country Park and ending in Shek O, the walk offers spectacular views of southern Hong Kong Island and surrounding islets. To get to Tai Tam Country Park, take Bus no. 6 or 61 from Exchange Square bus terminus and get off at Wong Nai Chung Gap Road. If you prefer something farther from the urban landscape, head over to the MacLehose trail in the New Territories or Lantau Island’s trail. For more information and trail maps, visit www.hkwalkers.net