Plover Cove Country Trail

Stretching along the northern shore of Hong Kong's New Territories, the Plover Cove Country Trail offers a serene, multi-day hike through lush hills, secluded beaches, and dramatic reservoirs. This 22-kilometer trail circles the Plover Cove Reservoir, providing sweeping views of Tolo Harbour and the distant peaks of China. It's a perfect escape for self-drive travellers seeking a quiet, nature-focused leg of their itinerary, with opportunities to combine coastal walks, village exploration, and local seafood dining.

Highlights & What to See

• Plover Cove Reservoir – The trail's namesake, a vast freshwater reservoir carved from the sea, with walking paths along its perimeter and dramatic views from the dam.
• Bride's Pool – A series of cascading waterfalls and natural pools, ideal for a refreshing dip after a long hike (check conditions before entering).
• Lai Chi Wo – One of Hong Kong's best-preserved Hakka walled villages, with ancestral halls, traditional houses, and a serene feng shui woodland.
• Yan Chau Tong Marine Park – A protected area of mangrove forests, fish farms, and rare birdlife, best explored by kayak or boat from the trail's coastal sections.
• Sam A Tsuen – A remote village with a charming café serving local snacks and cold drinks, a welcome pit stop along the trail.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least two full days to hike the entire trail, breaking it into two manageable 11-kilometer sections. Start early from the trailhead at Wu Kau Tang, hike to the halfway point at Sam A Tsuen, and overnight at the simple village guesthouse. On day two, continue to the finish at Luk Keng, allowing time to explore Lai Chi Wo and the marine park. If you have only one day, tackle the eastern section from Wu Kau Tang to Sam A Tsuen (about 5–6 hours) for the best coastal views.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Tai Po – A market town with a waterfront promenade, the Hong Kong Railway Museum, and excellent seafood restaurants.
• Sha Tin – Home to the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery, the Heritage Museum, and the Shing Mun River walk.
• Sai Kung – A coastal town known for its seafood, hiking trails (including the MacLehose Trail), and island-hopping opportunities.
• Lantau Island – Accessible via ferry from Tuen Mun, offering the Tian Tan Buddha, Ngong Ping 360, and quiet beaches.
• Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark – Explore volcanic rock formations, sea caves, and hiking trails in the northeastern New Territories.

Please check official sources for current details.