Constructed by the Hong Kong government to provide freshwater in the 1970s when mainland China cut off supplies, High Island Reservoir makes for a scenic day trip. The construction exposed rock sections near what is now the East Dam of the reservoir – 140 million-year-old hexagonal volcanic rock columns to be exact - and now these stunning segments are considered to be one of the true natural wonders of the world.

A trail, part of the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China, will bring you to these columns – this section is easy and can be finished in about half an hour.

The rest of the trail – called the Maclehose Trail – is no cakewalk. It’s a 100-km trail that cuts through eight country parks, divided into 10 sections. Attempt this only if you’re a keen hiker. In any case, the area around the reservoir is lends itself to pretty scenic views with sea caves, small islands and the limitless South China Sea all serving as a magnificent backdrop to the dam.