Lake House

Me and my family went for the Lake House (Le Vow) for celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year. Not an easy place to reach if you don't have a car, so we went by Uber. It was a sunny, happy family day and this was my first time here.

There was a huge pink teddy bear bouquet outside greeting us. A great spot for taking pictures, ladies! (Many people were queuing for taking pics here 🤭)

The whole architecture of the Lake House is very grand and deluxe (I bet it will be stunning too at night when the lights put on🥰😍). As you can see from the pictures, they serve dim sum and chinese dining in here, most of the dishes tasted fantastic! (Not to mix up, beside the Le Vow, there's Billow for western fusion food😊both within the Lake House)

After lunch, we went to the backyard for family photos, it charged $20 HKD for entrance fee, but elderly aged 65 or above are free in charge.

This place was really a hidden gem in Hong Kong. Definitely worth a visit!

Finding The Lake House felt like stumbling upon a well-kept secret, a page torn from a storybook and gently placed in the midst of Hong Kong's relentless energy. This isn't just a hotel or a restaurant; it's a full-sensory experience, a deliberate step back into a more graceful, thoughtful era. Located in the unexpectedly tranquil setting of Tai Po, it offers a respite that is both profound and beautifully executed.

From the moment you approach the iconic red-brick facade, draped in lush ivy and standing proudly beside the placid waters of the Tai Po River (which, in this context, is affectionately referred to as the "lake"), you know you're somewhere special. The architecture is a loving homage to the old Tai Po Market Railway Station, and this heritage theme is woven seamlessly throughout the entire property. The check-in process, set in a room that feels more like a colonial-era study than a hotel lobby, is warm and welcoming, setting the tone for the stay.

We visited for a weekend staycation, and every detail felt curated. Our room was a masterpiece of design, blending nostalgic elements like wooden ceiling fans, four-poster beds, and classic tiled bathrooms with all the modern amenities one could need. The minibar was thoughtfully stocked with local treats, and the quality of the furnishings spoke of a property that cares deeply about comfort and authenticity. Waking up to the gentle sunlight filtering through the trees and the sound of birds rather than traffic was a luxury

Property itself is a destination. We spent hours exploring the "Art in the Lake" gallery, a series of charming red-brick buildings housing a fascinating collection of vintage posters, local art, and historical artefacts. It’s a quiet, reflective space that adds a layer of cultural depth to your visit. Walking along the riverfront promenade, watching families of ducks paddle by and seeing the local community enjoy the parkland, provides a wonderful glimpse into a slower, more residential side of Hong Kong life.

Getting There: It's surprisingly easy. The MTR to Tai Po Market Station is a direct line from Admiralty. From there, it's a pleasant 10-15 minute stroll through the Tai Po Waterfront Park, which is an lovely way to begin and end your experience. Taxis from the station are also readily available and very affordable.
2. Book in Advance: Whether for a staycation, a meal at one of their restaurants, or a weekend high tea, The Lake House is popular for a reason. Reservations are highly recommended.
3. Explore the Area: Don't just come and go. Allocate time to visit the nearby Tai Po Waterfront Park, the Hong Kong Railway Museum (which thematically complements The Lake House perfectly), and the old-town streets of Tai Po.
4. Ideal For: Couples seeking a romantic getaway, photographers looking for that perfect shot, families wanting a spacious outdoor area for kids, and any Hong Kong resident who needs a reminder of the city's diverse charm beyond the skyscrapers.

In a city that often equates luxury with glossy newness and dizzying heights, The Lake House offers a different, more soulful definition. Its luxury is in its tranquility, its character, and its deep connection to a forgotten Hong Kong. It’s a five-star experience not defined by thread count, but by the feeling of peace and wonder it instills. We left feeling not just relaxed, but genuinely enriched. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

During the Mid-Autumn festival, it was beautifully decorated to be honest. The restaurant receptionist denied us for changing our baby's diapers, saying it did not have a dedicated baby room when online we can see it does, later while we were about to leave I asked another employee there, and he was kind to give one of the bridal rooms for us even when it was already booked. The food( steak + pasta) was okay for being a fancy lakeside restaurant with hefty price tag, it was served within 2 minutes, so I doubt whether it was fresh.

A wonderful to get away from the city. It's only 15 min ride from Tai Po Station. Dim Sum is well made, look at the layers of Fried Turnip cake! Taste is not too salty and not too sweet with little MSG. Tea quality is good. The huge pink bear out of the building is so eye capturing. Staff there said it got awarded on something. There were some vegetarian choices as well. The "lake" is actually the sea. I guess it was formed after the railway was built across a bay. Lots of seabirds live there so it is very relaxing to see there fly around. Staff there are very friendly. The place also cater for wedding banquets. In the summer, you may have fun boating, etc. Other than Chinese restaurant, western food is served next door. Nice place to go.

If you're seeking a place to dine with a serene setting, you have found it here. Next to a small lake, the Lake House is a beautifully decorated restaurant filled with light, plants, and good food to enjoy a relaxed meal.

We had lunch on a Monday, having some dim sum with a few of their vegetarian (or nearly veg) options. I was in love the with truffle mushrooms, fried turnip cakes, and fried rice. I felt at ease sipping on the chrysanthemum tea. I appreciated the atmosphere and the neatness of all that took place.

It's a little pricey, but if you can make your way here and have a little money to spend on a well catered and manicured experience, the Lake House is very much recommended!