Plover Cove Reservoir Reservoir

Plover Cove Reservoir is a freshwater reservoir in the northeastern New Territories of Hong Kong, within Tai Po District. It was created by enclosing a coastal cove and is notable as an early large-scale coastal reservoir project constructed in the 1960s.

The reservoir and its surrounding country park provide a network of walking and cycling routes, picnic sites and wildlife-watching opportunities; parts of established long-distance trails run around and through the park. The setting combines open water with wooded hills and shoreline tracks that are popular with local hikers and birdwatchers.

The project was carried out by the Hong Kong government in the 1960s to increase freshwater storage capacity for the territory. Over time the area has been managed for both water supply and public recreation, with facilities to support day visitors.

Located in Tai Po District in the northeastern New Territories, the reservoir lies inland from Tolo Harbour and is accessible from Tai Po and nearby towns by road and local public transport.

• Construction era: Formed by damming a coastal inlet, it was constructed during the 1960s as a major addition to Hong Kong’s water supply infrastructure.
• Recreation and viewpoints: Sections of long-distance hiking routes pass through the area and several designated picnic and viewpoint sites offer clear reservoir views at sunrise and early morning.

What to See#

• Plover Cove Country Park: Surrounds the reservoir and offers marked hiking trails, picnic areas and viewpoints that look over the water and surrounding hills.

Plover Cove Reservoir is in Hong Kong’s Tai Po District. By car, follow Tolo Highway (Route 9) and turn onto Plover Cove Road to reach the reservoir area and the car parks near the dam; the reservoir roads and parking give direct access to walking trails. By public transport, take the MTR East Rail Line to Tai Po Market or Tai Wo and change to local buses or green minibuses serving the Plover Cove / Shuen Wan area (services and stops vary); expect a short walk from the nearest bus/minibus stop to the reservoir trails and dam.

• Start from the Tai Mei Tuk area to access the reservoir's popular promenade, bike rentals and the dam viewpoint-this is the main and most convenient entry point.
• Early morning or late afternoon gives the best light and fewer people; weekends and public holidays draw large picnic and cycling crowds, so choose weekdays to avoid them.
• Many visitors stick to the picnic areas-continue around the reservoir by bike or on foot to find quieter shoreline views and small inlets that most day‑trippers miss.