Portavoe Reservoir
Portavoe reservoir is hidden gem on the Co Down coast close to Donaghadee with walks around its perimeter and the surrounding woodland. There is plenty of wildlife to spot and is great place to escape for an hour or two and enjoy the peace, quiet and beautiful views .
Parts of the path can be VERY muddy so wellies or good waterproof boots are highly recommended!
The reservoir is situated in the townland of Portavoe which is comprised of 562 acres . The topography of the townland includes 7 drumlins and 2 hills, Kearney’s Hill and Shore Hill, this hill has the water tower which is still used as a storage tower. The important parts of this townland relating to the current reservoir are the 2 rivers that feed into it.
The feed rivers to Portavoe are the Glenburnie Burn and the Portavoe river. The Glenburnie Burn rises 3km away in the 110 acre Cotton Bog and this is the key river to the estate when it was a truly working estate and this river was dammed to form a mill pond. The Portavoe river rises in Balloo Lower, near the Springwell Road and provides a water source for the northerly side of the reservoir.
Portavoe reservoir had been undergoing maintenance work to prevent flooding from around October 2013 onwards, and had been closed from spring 2014 to 2015. The maintenance work is now complete, and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL) announced the reservoir had reopened after being re-stocked with 2,500 rainbow trout.
The Cache
This cache is situated within the ruins of a small stone building. It is a small container with a log and pencil and rooms for a couple of small swaps/ travelbug
Stealth may be required!