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Plover Cove Reservoir
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The Plover Cove Reservoir, located in the northeastern New Territories of Hong Kong, is a landmark achievement in hydraulic engineering, being the world's first freshwater reservoir constructed within a sea bay. Completed in 1968, this ambitious project was designed to address Hong Kong's historical water shortages by sealing off an inlet with a 2-kilometer-long main dam and replacing the seawater with fresh water. With a total capacity of approximately 230 million cubic meters, it remains the second largest reservoir in the territory. Beyond its vital function in the city's water supply system, Plover Cove has become a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. A scenic cycling track runs along the main dam, and numerous hiking trails offer sweeping vistas of the surrounding hills and the vast expanse of blue water. The area serves as a testament to urban ingenuity and provides a peaceful escape from the metropolitan bustle, while also supporting a diverse range of local flora and fauna in its protected catchment area.
- Location: Hong Kong SAR China
- Top sights: AXA Dreamland · Sham Chung Wan · Kei Ling Ha Mangal SSSI
- Nearby: Ma On Shan (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 18 | 20 | 23 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 25 | 22 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 36 | 29 | 72 | 104 | 210 | 282 | 185 | 218 | 161 | 49 | 30 | 25 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The main access to the dam and the surrounding country trail is located in the popular Tai Mei Tuk recreation area. This starting point is best reached by buses from Tai Po Market MTR station.
Best season
The impressive dam promenade and surrounding paths are ideally visited between October and April. In the summer months, the water additionally reflects the already intense heat.
Terrain & paths
The walk across the massive main dam takes place on a fully paved, flat, and very wide road. However, hikes around the entire body of water consist of challenging mountain paths.
What to bring
For a bike ride or walk on the dam, normal casual clothing and adequate sun protection are sufficient. A bicycle can often be easily rented locally in the nearby village of Tai Mei Tuk.
Parking
Large parking lots are available in Tai Mei Tuk, which are overcrowded by families and cyclists, especially on weekends. Arriving early in the morning or using public buses is strongly recommended.
Safety
The main dam is very safe and also well suited for strollers or wheelchairs, but pedestrians must watch out for cyclists. Swimming in the reservoir is strictly prohibited for water quality reasons.
Time needed
A leisurely walk on the approximately two-kilometer-long dam back and forth takes about an hour to an hour and a half. A complete circumnavigation of the lake is a tough day stage of over six hours.
Geography
Facts
- Capacity: 230 million cubic meters
- Completed in: 1968
- Dam length: 1.9 km
- Dam height: 25 m
- Water surface area: 12.4 km²
- Provides about 25% of drinking water
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Plover Cove Reservoir (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular activity?
Cycling across the 2km long main dam from Tai Mei Tuk.
Can I rent bicycles?
Yes, there are many rental shops in Tai Mei Tuk village.
How long is the hiking trail around it?
The full circuit is about 15km long and very challenging.
Are there barbecue pits?
Yes, large BBQ areas are located near Tai Mei Tuk.
Is fishing allowed?
Only with an official permit from the Water Supplies Dept.
Plover Cove Reservoir: where is it located?
Plover Cove Reservoir is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
Plover Cove Reservoir: what is there to see?
Highlights include AXA Dreamland, Sham Chung Wan, Kei Ling Ha Mangal SSSI.
Plover Cove Reservoir: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
Plover Cove Reservoir: why is it worth visiting?
The Plover Cove Reservoir, located in the northeastern New Territories of Hong Kong, is a landmark achievement in hydraulic engineering, being the world's first freshwater reservoir constructed within a sea bay.
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