Pat Sin

Pat Sin Leng is arguably Hong Kong's most beautiful flying site — a hard hike up rewarded by expansive views across to downtown Shenzhen and beyond. Southerly winds usually mean summer, and therefore extreme heat — one litre of water at minimum. Unlike Cloudy Hills, Pat Sin Leng also flies in SW wind. Cross-country potential is real; the landing on the beach is very large and safe.

Launch & conditions

SE to SW wind. Takeoff altitude about 500 m. Max height 2,500 ft. Club Pilot and above; beginners and students only under instructor supervision.

Getting there & local rules

By public transport: bus to Tai Mei Tuk from Tai Po KCR. From the bus terminus (also the car park if you drive), continue on foot along the same road that led you there. The road curves left as it climbs; after about 1 km it curves right at an intersection where a country-park map sits on the left plus a country-park exhibit in a building — that's the trailhead. Follow signs to Pat Sin ridge.

Local rules & hazards

Max height 2,500 ft. Club Pilot rating and above; beginners and students only under instructor supervision. Bring at least one litre of water — summer southerlies mean extreme heat.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Pat Sin, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Pat Sin with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.