Lantau, the largest of Hong Kong’s Islands, at twice the size of Hong Kong Island, was little touched by development until the completion of the international airport on its north-eastern coast in 1998. its size has allowed it to absorb this massive project and, on the whole, still preserve a peaceful, bucolic atmosphere.

A 50-minute boat ride from the Outlying Islands Ferry Pier in Central District on Hong Kong Island brings you to Mui Wo. It lies at the edge of a deep bay carved out of the southeast coast. The village’s slightly unkempt appearance is improved by scenic views to the island’s rugged interior and a well-tended and generous sweep of sand at Silvermine Beach, popular with day-trippers during summer.

About a mile beyond Tung Chung is Tung Chung Fort. Built in 1832, it is enclosed by a granite block wall, its three arced entrances engraved with Chinese character inscriptions. The six muzzle-loading cannon on the fort’s ramparts once pointed out over the sea, ready to fire at marauding pirates.