Singapore is usually described as a concrete jungle, however you’ll additionally discover loads of lush, hidden oases tucked between its skyscrapers and positioned on the fringes of the city-state. This weekend, why not attempt one thing just a little totally different and discover the nation by bicycle? The expansive Park Connector Community makes it straightforward to cruise alongside the designated biking routes, or you possibly can select to enterprise off the crushed monitor into extra unexplored terrain. Slap on some sunscreen, don your protecting gear and get your blood pumping whereas turning into higher acquainted with Singapore’s pure wonders.
1. Coney Island
It may be a little bit of a trek to get to this island, positioned off the coast of Punggol within the north-eastern a part of Singapore. However when you arrive, you’ll be fascinated by simply how a lot nature yow will discover right here. Take a trip alongside one of many coastal trails, uncover hidden seashores and make your means by way of a fascinating forest. Eager birdwatchers must also carry their binoculars and maintain their eyes peeled for the 80 species of birds that decision Coney Island residence. You’ll be able to both carry your individual bike or hire one from Punggol Level or Punggol Settlement.
2. Western Journey Loop
Starting at Choa Chu Kang Park, the Western Journey Loop takes you thru numerous parks and greenways the place you’ll stand up shut and private with nature. Dairy Farm Nature Park, with its rugged terrain, is a spotlight, as are the Jurong Lake Gardens – residence to the attractive and cultural Chinese language Backyard and the zen Japanese Backyard. This 12km-route additionally comes with a number of alternatives to hop off your bike for a bit and take breaks within the tranquil and normally uncrowded surrounds. In case you’re fortunate, you could possibly spot one of many roughly 50 fowl species which have been sighted alongside the Bukit Panjang Park Connector.
3. Northern Explorer Loop
Bike on the wild aspect in on the Northern Explorer Loop: you’ll be surrounded by nature, however won’t ever be too removed from heartland neighbourhoods similar to Yishun, Sembawang and Woodlands do you have to wish to cease for a break alongside the best way. The whole loop spans round 25km, however you can even go for a shorter 11km-route that takes you from Decrease Seletar Reservoir Park to Woodlands Waterfront Park. Water is a serious function alongside this route, and also you’ll go by way of reservoirs, a freshwater swamp and a jetty at Woodlands Waterfront that’s one of many longest in Singapore. The park connectors will maintain you on clean floor, however you’ll additionally hit some undulating terrain in your route. Hold a lookout for wildlife similar to monkeys and uncommon birds.
4. Chestnut Nature Park
Singapore’s largest nature park can be the primary within the nation to have separate mountain biking routes and mountain climbing trails. It’s best for fowl watching, and can be an excellent place to search out out extra in regards to the numerous native tree species which have been planted right here. Chestnut Nature Park‘s mountain biking path is segmented into totally different sections with various issue ranges, so select the one that most closely fits your talents. Seasoned mountain bikers can even brush up on their abilities at Chestnut Bike Park, with abilities strains and a abilities space. Lastly, the Chestnut Pump Observe caters to riders of all ranges who wish to observe and advance their strategies inside a managed setting.
5. Ketam Mountain Bike Park
Make your approach to Pulau Ubin from Changi Ferry Terminal and revel in a cycle round Ketam Mountain Bike Park. It’s the primary biking route within the city-state to fulfill worldwide requirements for mountain biking competitions, with 10km of trails that can go well with cyclists of all ability ranges. The three tracks have totally different rankings from the Worldwide Mountain Bicycling Affiliation (IMBA), so go for one which corresponds with the extent you’re comfy with. When you’ve got the time, you possibly can contemplate turning your bike trip right into a full-day journey and discovering all that Pulau Ubin has to supply.
6. Japanese Coastal Loop
Operating by way of Bedok Jetty, East Coast Park and Bedok Reservoir Park, the Japanese Coastal Loop is among the hottest biking routes in Singapore – and it’s straightforward to see why. From sea to shore to road, there’s a complete vary of sceneries you’ll likelihood upon alongside the best way. You’ll even have loads of choices with regards to stopping for a relaxation, whether or not you wish to have a snack at a meals centre or soak your toes within the waters of East Coast Park. Made up of principally park connectors and biking paths, anybody who can trip a motorcycle will take pleasure in this straightforward, meandering route.
7. Jurassic Mile
Need to lengthen your biking journey after exploring the size of East Coast Park? Proceed east in the direction of the Changi Coast Out of doors Journey Studying Centre and also you’ll come throughout the doorway to Jurassic Mile, Singapore’s largest everlasting outside dinosaur show. As you cycle alongside this kilometre-long paved path (no mountain bikes required) you’ll come face-to-face with 20 lifelike replicas of prehistoric creatures – from docile herbivores to fearsome carnivores just like the Tyrannosaurus rex. The route ends close to Jewel Changi Airport, so take the chance to seize at a chunk at 5 Guys, Jumbo Seafood or one of many mall’s different fashionable eating places.
8. Central City Loop
Get a exercise on the Central City Loop whereas making stops at iconic housing estates similar to Toa Payoh, Whampoa and Ang Mo Kio. The whole route is linked by way of the Park Connector Community, so bear in mind that you just’ll be sharing the biking routes with these out for his or her walks and jogs. Alongside the 36km stretch, you’ll see the old-school Toa Payoh City Park, the attractive Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park (maintain a watch out for otters) and the soothing Kallang River.
This text was initially revealed on 5 September 2020 and up to date on 5 January 2023.
