ABERDEEN. This sprawling 410-acre park offers plenty of trails for hiking, jogging or walking, and it also has various exercise stations built along the trails to boost visitor workouts. Picnic areas provide ideal meeting points, and there is also a visitor center with a botanical garden and insect display.

NEW TERRITORIES. This renowned peak resembles a woman with a baby on her back. Legend has it that the woman was the devoted wife of a fisherman. It is said that this woman waited atop this peak for her husband's return from sea and was eventually turned into stone as an act of mercy from the gods. Today, the rock symbolizes the virtues of patience and loyalty.

NEW TERRITORIES. This picturesque series of waterfalls is a popular spot for a picnic or a photo op. As the story goes, the name comes from a woman who was on the way to her wedding and was being carried in the ceremonial chair when she was accidentally dropped into the waters and drowned. So, enjoy the view but be careful!

CENTRAL. This small, but well-designed park offers a welcome break from the concrete and glass buildings that are surrounding it. Built into the side of a small hill, top attractions include an aviary with a large selection of exotic birds, and a conservatory, which is among the most extensive in the world. It recreates various climates and includes many of the plants indigenous to each area. Also within the park's boundaries is Flagstaff House. Built in 1846, it's the oldest remaining colonial building in Hong Kong, and today is home to a fascinating tea ware museum. Contact the museum at 852 2869 0690.

TSIM SHA TSUI. As you stroll through this former military encampment, you'll be treated to great views of lakes, ornamental gardens, a sports complex, a bird lake and even a maze to walk through. At the southern end of the park you'll find the Jamia Masjid (otherwise known as Kowloon Mosque) ­ it's not open to the public, but it's an attractive structure from the outside.