Discovering Hilltop Lookout and Sweet Garden

August 30, 2023

One weekend, on the not-so-far island of Ma Wan, I embarked on a small exploration and stumbled upon one scenic spot and another. After looking for a certain place that I yearned to explore, disappointment was painted on my face as there was no way to see it anymore. Construction was ongoing and the entrance was blocked, so sooner or later, a new place would evolve and the old one that I wanted to see might be forgotten. That was the scenic Ghost Town of the island.

You can check my blog, A Day At Ma Wan Island to know what I was talking about.

After some contemplation, I left the place with a heavy heart and became uncertain about where to go next. On my way out and making a detour, I spotted a seemingly garden where I opted to stay for a while to put my disappointment at ease. There were turbine birds that seemingly floated and an arch pathway surrounded by plants and flowers.

It gave me the impression that I was in a fantasy wonderland. At the entrance, I was greeted by cute and giant creatures. Some alpacas were smiling, which motivated me to explore the wonderland.

Upon seeing the giant chambered nautilus (wiki says it's the name), and the giant yet cute snail, I became more excited to walk farther to see more things to discover in the garden. Nature always excites me and never disappointed me.

Clouds getting overcast as time flew faster. It was already five in the afternoon, so soon the dusk will come after the sunset, and I needed to explore the garden quickly.

Three ladies arrived in pretty white dresses, and they seemed to be like fairies in a fantasy wonderland. They gracefully entered the arch pathway where beautiful blooming flowers on both sides add more charms to the place. I, on the other hand, followed their trail as I wanted to explore the garden too.

They call this Australian Garden but most prefer to call it the Sweet Garden of Ma Wan Island located within the Ma Wan Nature Park premise. It is as sweet as its name, beautiful and fascinating. Uncertain of its style, it seems like a Bohemian Garden.

At the end of the pathway is a giant Seiko clock stuck in between the gate that can not be opened, as it is locked permanently. I thought the clock was dead, but it ticked and its hands moved, so it was functional. It shows fifteen minutes past five the time I reached the spot which correlated to my wristwatch.

As much as I wanted to exclaim in joy, I have to hush myself as the sweet hugging couple in the Sweet Garden seemed doesn't want to be disturbed. To pay them respect, I silently walked toward the arch pavilion. That was, after asking permission to take a photo of them, lol.

Just by looking at this, how to call this, brass gazebo or arch pavilion? Without a doubt, it's a Bohemian style. It looked old and nostalgic, and overgrown vines covered its top.

The ground was calling so I took the quiet chance, I laid on it, and felt the earth. Kidding aside, I just wanted to make the same pose I saw online, lol. By that time I felt like I just want to stay alone in the garden, relax my tired feet, and contemplate.

The time was running behind me but I chose to stay for a while. You couldn't blame me as the place was truly nostalgic and a beautiful spot for some photoshoots. I let my camera play and my body did some poses. But don't worry, I made it fast. One, two, and three, then I left as I was satisfied enough.

I felt relaxed after some time staying in the garden. I heard the chirping of birds calling and the sounds came from the hill. I thought it would be better to have a small hike on the trail. The sunset was approaching and I thought it would be prettier to catch it atop the small hill.

Tall trees and more spots to explore awaited and I was excited. The place seemed doesn't want me to get tired as the footpaths made my small hike convenient. It can't even be called as hike, lol. Instead of seeing dirty paved paths, a staircase with wooden treads and rails comfortably led me to the top of the hill. I saw sign boards about American cactuses and other wild plants in the place, but I didn't spot a single cactus. They are probably hiding behind tall bushes.

There were a few platforms also covered with wooden floors for resting spots. The place would be great for a picnic too. Perhaps, set a tent here. It's like having a picnic in the middle of the woods because of the tall trees surrounding it. The flat wooden floor would give more convenience to the visitors even on rainy days.

As I got to the top, this scenic view of the white wave-like masterpiece appeared at sight. I failed to take a shot of this in the middle angle. This white installation resembles a giant bird that spread its wings and is like ready to fly. Below the hill are small flying birds on poles which I described as turbine birds above.

This is the Hilltop Lookout. On sunny days, this definitely offers a scenic panoramic view of Ma Wan Island.

The stunning view of Tsing Ma Bridge is visible on the left, while in front is the tranquil village on the coastline of Ma Wan. It's also a perfect spot to wait for the sunset.

A binocular is placed to see outlying islands and view below the hill. But it seemed broken and not functional. The Ma Wan Solar Tower stood out in the village. It says that the largest vacuum solar telescope in Southeast Asia is located in this tower. Inside is a solar and astronomic exhibition but only customized program guests are allowed to enter. It was even closed for viewing when I checked it.

Limited people are coming to this hilltop so one can unwind and feel the surroundings. This old woman was having a quiet time when I spotted her. It's peaceful on top, so no one could disturb her. Besides, the view is tranquil and is surrounded by trees and one can really meditate here.

There is no reason to leave the place without taking a shot with this awesome installation. So I took the chance and leaned on it. After a count of three, there I got this portrait below.

And just like that. My walk to Sweet Garden, and a little hike to Hilltop Lookout ended here. And now it's your time to admire them.

@tattoodjay might like this too for the #WednesdayWalk and #MakeMeSmile challenge. It's an amazing day on my side of the world. I hope in yours as well.

Happy humpday!

You can also check my other blogs take on this island.

A Glimpse Of Brick Kiln From Qing Dynasty And Pre-Historic Remains

Noah's Ark Docked At Tung Wan Beach

Thanks for stopping by.

(All photos are mine)

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