Hiking a Hong Kong hidden gem
Bride’s Pool Waterfall is probably the most scenic, hidden treasure in Hong Kong, a city synonymous with skyscrapers. Located in Plover Cover Country Park, the waterfall is a sight for sore eyes. Not once did we feel like that we were anywhere near a concrete jungle.
The waterfall, and its surrounding area is popular with picnic/barbecue goers, and hikers. Bride’s Pool also makes for a scenic, natural swimming pool attracting many visitors during the summer.
The pool’s name stemmed from a very tragic story. According to an ancient legend, a bride aboard a sedan was on her way to her wedding one rainy day when one of the porters slipped and lost his footing. The bride fell into the pool and unfortunately, drowned. The pool was later named in her memory. Some say that the bride’s spirit still haunts the area and claim to have seen her in the Mirror Pool (another pool in the area).
More Hong Kong things to do Dragons back hike in Hong Kong
Once you arrive at the main entrance (where the bus drops you off) head to the ‘Brides Pool’ sign. Both waterfalls are a short distance from here and the walk is not challenging at all. Some of the rocks can get slippery though and are a bit uneven, especially nearer the waterfall itself. The Brides pool will be the nearest one, followed by Mirror Pool. After spending some time here resting or taking pictures or even having a dip the hike continues.
Nearby the Mirror Pool there is a path that leads directly up through the bushes and trees. Follow this upwards for around 10 minutes and you’ll get to the peak of Mirror Pool. This is a good place to stop for a snack or bite to eat should you wish. The trail towards Lai Chi Wo is around 7KM but it is on relatively easy terrain and it is quite easy to traverse. Along the way you will see the most beautiful natural scenery consisting of unique roc formations, mangroves, and lush green fields. There are hardly any hikers on the path and you will feel a world away from busy Shenzhen. You can take your time marauding around and taking in the views, or snap some fantastic photos along the way. This is Hong Kong at it’s hidden gem best.
When you get there you’ll discover an virtually abandoned town, the buildings are derelict and are overgrown with weeds and vines. However in it’s own way it is very beautiful, and in fact won a Lonely Planet award for mot beautiful villages in Asia. There are some great photo opportunities here. Some of the village is being rebuilt using huge bamboo structures, and some locals sell herbal drinks and snacks here which will invigorate and vitalize you
After exploring here you can get the ferry back to the urban area, it will stop at a pier nearby the University metro station on the East Rail Line. The ferry leaves at 3.30pm. It is the only one each day so make sure you catch it. My experience was it left promptly on time. The journey takes 90 minutes but you’ll get to see some beautiful views on the ocean and just relax.
Want to go?
- Take the train to Tai Po Market station.
- At Tai Po Marker station, follow the signs to the bus terminal. The green mini-bus terminal is on the left, while the bus terminal is on the right.
- The green mini-bus 20C goes to Tai Mei Tuk, and from there you can hike, or take a taxi to Bride’s Pool.
- If you’re going on a weekend, take the 275R straight to Bride’s Pool.
The 275R has good frequency (every 15-20 mins), and runs directly between Tai Po Market and Bride’s Pool bus terminal. No additional walking or hiring a taxi required. And since it’s a proper bus (but not a double-decker), finding a seat is easier.
Bring water as there is no where along to route to buy until you get to the village
Same for snacks/lunch
Don’t miss the ferry or you need to walk to the next village or back to where you came from
No bins along the route so please take your trash with you until the end.
Wanderust Welshman 
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