The Plover Cove Reservoir at Tai Mei Tuk
Nestled in the deeps of Hong Kong’s countryside, the Plover Cove Reservoir in Tai Po is the first stop along the scenic route leading to the general area of Luk Keng in Fanling. The Plover Cove Reservoir is the largest reservoir in Hong Kong by area, and second largest in volume.[i] Construction completed in 1968.
The dam cut off a section of the sea at the coast of the Plover Cove, then sea water was drained to make way for a fresh water lake. When one takes a stroll on the dam, there is the lake on the left and the ocean on the right. Together the two bodies of water make a very pleasing scene.[ii] The natural environ and man-made lake allow for myriad activities on both sides of the dam.
Over the years, the fresh water lake has enabled a biosphere of its own. With a permit, people can leisurely fish for fresh water catch on the lake. On the other hand, many boats sail on the ocean and wake boarders slide along in high speed. Its length at 2.2km, the dam offers a walk of one hour at a normal walking pace back and forth. Many people bring along their pets for a stroll. Others fly kites on windy days. Children and adults alike bike and jog. The dam is a perfect venue for activities of all ages.
Looking onto the north, the Ridge of the Eight Immortals (Pat Sin Leng) hovers over the fresh water lake, its range exhibiting the eight peaks that figuratively represent the eight immortals. The ridge has a hiker trail which is quite rigorous.
As a bonus, the restaurants in Tai Mei Tuk feature a wide selection of good food. The Thai restaurants are well known, but there is also very good Chinese food. A nice meal after hours of outdoor activities is always a nice top-up for a good day.
To go to the Plover Cover Reservoir, take Bus 75K or Minibus 20C at the Tai Po Market terminus. The dam is admissions-free. There is a barbecue area, also free of admissions, but it would take early arrival to secure a stove and a table in the fall and winter. Finally, there are many bicycle and boat rental stores there that are reasonably-priced. Be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses and sun block on sunny days as there are few shades in the area.
[i] Wikipedia on Plover Cove Reservoir.
[ii] For an excellent photo-journal of the Tai Mei Tuk area in Tai Po, see Drone & DSLR.