Step away from the bustling city and uncover one of Hong Kong's hidden treasures: Tai Tam Reservoirs. This enchanting haven awaits you, offering a peaceful stroll among verdant hills and the calming reflections of the reservoir waters. Delve into history as you admire the 21 English-style waterworks structures of significant historical value. Spending a few hours exploring this lush oasis is the perfect way to experience a relaxing and rejuvenating day.

The 9km hiking trail from Quarry Bay to Tai Tam is easy, informative, and suitable for all hikers, particularly those who favor a more leisurely pace. The paths are largely shaded by canopy trees, providing natural air conditioning to keep you cool from the heat, making it an ideal spot for exploration even during the summer months.

Directions:

To get to the trailhead, exit Quarry Bay MTR station through Exit A and head east towards the junction with King’s Road and Mount Parker Road. Look for the directory sign "Mount Parker Road Green Trail".

The trail is relatively flat, so you can easily reach the Quarry Pass Pavilion within an hour by walking on smooth concrete walkways. The uphill slopes require some effort, so be sure to rest at lookout pavilions along the way and take in the views of Island East. Be mindful of vehicles passing through, especially when near the curves of the path.

Once you reach the Quarry Pass Pavilion, follow the sign for "Hong Kong Forest Track Mount Parker Section". Walk down the slope for about 30 minutes, and you'll soon arrive at the cluster of century-old dams. The Tai Tam Upper Dam, built in 1883 during the first phase of the Tai Tam Scheme, will come into view first. The tranquil ambiance and the sparkling reflections of the reservoir water offer the perfect Instagrammable spot – so don't forget to snap a photo.

Turn left at the end of the Upper Dam and pass through the rest of the three reservoirs constructed in the early 1900s: Tai Tam Byewash Reservoir, Tai Tam Intermediate Reservoir, and Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir. Take your time and admire the unbeatable scenery of the granite stone bridges with the backdrop of evergreens before reaching the south entrance of Tai Tam Country Park, where you can take bus route no. 14 to Stanley or Sai Wan Ho.

Highlights of the trail:

1. The Edwardian-style Red House, built in the 1920s, which initially served as a residence hall for senior staff members of the Taikoo (太古) Sugar Refinery, now known as Swire. The house has been revitalized as the Woodside Biodiversity Education Centre, and admission is free.

2. Most of the structures around the reservoirs, including the dams, stone bridges, and valve houses, are classified as graded historic buildings due to their aesthetic values and significance in meeting the growing demand for water amid rapid urbanization at the time.

Other places to visit

If you have time, stop by the famous town of Stanley. The charming town has everything from colonial heritage and temples sitting by the waterfront to beautiful beaches overlooking the southern waters. Relax and enjoy a beer while basking in the ambiance of the town. Bus route no. 14 can take you there from the end of your hike.

Recommendations:

1. Bring sunscreen, a hat, towel, enough water, and snacks to protect yourself from the sections without shade. You'll be mostly in the woods, so it's better to take mosquito repellents with you – better safe than sorry!

2. No worries if you're not good at directions, as there are plenty of signs leading the way, and explanatory boards dotted all over the area where you can learn about the history of the heritage!