Breathtaking views at Lau Shui Heung Reservoir

As the temperature and humidity drop, it is officially the best time to head outdoors in Hong Kong.

Start your nature adventure with a visit to the small but mighty Lau Shui Heung Reservoir, at the western end of the Pat Sing Leng Country Park that stretches over the northeastern New Territories.

The reservoir is known as a “mirror of the sky” and transforms into a wonderland of red and rust leaves in winter. It forms part of popular hiking trails for good reason, offering stunning sights of burnt-orange paperbark trees along the banks and calm waters that reflect the view like a painting.

A South China Morning Post photographer made his way to the park and trail to capture the foliage, wildlife and happy scenes of hikers snapping selfies with greenery and dogs enjoying a nice day outdoors.

The reservoir is beautiful in summer, but draws crowds at the start of winter before the trees lose all their leaves.

During December and January, the foliage of the cypress trees on the southern shore goes from green to yellow, then, finally, orange-red.

To get here, head to Fanling and take a minibus to Pat Sin Leng Country Park. You’ll be greeted by white melaleuca, paperbark and bald cypress trees and, if the timing allows for it, many species of butterflies and dragonflies.

Make sure to head out on a clear, windless morning, say between 8am and 9am, to catch the famed reflective still waters in full effect.

This companion parrot was brought by a hiker, but the reservoir is home to all kinds of amphibians, fish and mammals.

Tranquil waters and lush greenery make for a perfect hike – for humans and their furry companions alike.