Repulse Bay (Training: Tai Tam Reservoir)

FKT 1hr 11min 29sec

REPULSE BAY (TRAINING: TAI TAM RESERVOIR)

Another fast-running, relatively secluded training route at the longer end of our range, from this Repulse Bay location. Apart from the short, hill scramble at the start/finish this route is entirely runnable, with 90% on flats. The majority of km’s follow the East Tai Tam catchwater, a pleasant and serene stretch. Just be mindful of the path falling away steeply at points; keep your eyes on the trail! The route finishes on a high with a favourite trail section bringing you back to base along the reservoir.

THE RIDE 🔥

A short blast around the south of the island down towards Repulse Bay. Past the beach and up South Bay Road until you reach the HKIS school. Opposite is a small, secluded cul-de-sac, plenty of room for parking the bike.

START / FINISH POINT

Opting for the more direct start/finish point for a training run here, which is just a few paces from the trail start. Its lacking in services but its convenience (meaning we don’t need to trapse up the hill to reach the trail) + secluded location, more than serves our purpose.

THE RUN 🍺

Climb the steps at the top of the road and a short scramble up the hill to join the catchwater. Turn right heading around the southernmost point of Tai Tam country, looping Eastwards around towards the reservoir. Turn right where the catchwater meets the Wilson Trail and take the infamous 1,000 steps in reverse, down (mercifully) the hill.

Turn left along Stanley Gap Road. Extra care here as we navigate 50m of windy main road before re-joining the East Tai Tam catchwater. The trail switches from concrete to dirt and begins to open up, having been sheltered by trees for much of the way so far. Be mindful of your step as the trail falls away steeply on either side, at times; good for focusing on your foot placement and technique; “mindful running” 😃

Head down some steep steps to meet the start of Tai Tam Reservoir Road and head left into the country park, hitting a flat stretch of road that weaves through the trees at reservoir level. After a km or so, take a sharp left at the bridge, onto a road that quickly joins a trail alongside the reservoir.

After the tarmac, it feels good to return to more natural terrain and this last 1.5km is a treat of sheltered dirt trails, waterfalls and vistas back across the reservoir. Back to the foot of the Twins we re-join the catchwater and take a right back down to base.