Singapore is usually described as a concrete jungle, however you’ll additionally discover loads of lush, hidden oases tucked between its skyscrapers and situated on the fringes of the city-state. This weekend, why not strive one thing a little bit completely different and discover the nation by bicycle? The expansive Park Connector Network makes it simple to cruise alongside the designated biking routes, or you possibly can select to enterprise off the crushed observe 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 generally is a little bit of a trek to get to this island, situated off the coast of Punggol within the north-eastern a part of Singapore. But 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 method by way of a fascinating forest. Keen birdwatchers must also convey their binoculars and preserve their eyes peeled for the 80 species of birds that decision Coney Island dwelling. You can both convey your individual bike or hire one from Punggol Point or Punggol Settlement.
2. Western Adventure Loop
Beginning at Choa Chu Kang Park, the Western Adventure 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 – dwelling to the attractive and cultural Chinese Garden and the zen Japanese Garden. 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 often uncrowded surrounds. If you’re fortunate, you might be able to spot one of many roughly 50 chook species which have been sighted alongside the Bukit Panjang Park Connector.
3. Northern Explorer Loop
Bike on the wild facet in on the Northern Explorer Loop: you’ll be surrounded by nature, however won’t ever be too removed from heartland neighbourhoods resembling Yishun, Sembawang and Woodlands must you wish to cease for a break alongside the best way. The complete loop spans round 25km, however you may as well go for a shorter 11km-route that takes you from Lower Seletar Reservoir Park to Woodlands Waterfront Park. Water is a significant function alongside this route, and also you’ll cross 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 preserve you on clean floor, however you’ll additionally hit some undulating terrain in your route. Keep a lookout for wildlife resembling 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 mountaineering trails. It’s excellent for chook watching, and can be a terrific place to search out out extra concerning the numerous native tree species which have been planted right here. Chestnut Nature Park‘s mountain biking path is segmented into completely different sections with various issue ranges, so select the one that most closely fits your skills. Seasoned mountain bikers also can brush up on their abilities at Chestnut Bike Park, with abilities strains and a abilities space. Finally, the Chestnut Pump Track caters to riders of all ranges who wish to apply and advance their methods inside a managed atmosphere.
5. Ketam Mountain Bike Park
Make your option to Pulau Ubin from Changi Ferry Terminal and luxuriate 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 may swimsuit cyclists of all talent ranges. The three tracks have completely different rankings from the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA), so go for one which corresponds with the extent you’re snug with. If you may have 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. Eastern Coastal Loop
Running by way of Bedok Jetty, East Coast Park and Bedok Reservoir Park, the Eastern Coastal Loop is without doubt one of the hottest biking routes in Singapore – and it’s simple to see why. From sea to shore to road, there’s a entire vary of sceneries you’ll probability upon alongside the best way. You’ll even have loads of choices in relation to stopping for a relaxation, whether or not you wish to have a snack at a meals centre or soak your ft within the waters of East Coast Park. Made up of largely park connectors and biking paths, anybody who can trip a motorbike will get pleasure from this simple, meandering route.
7. Jurassic Mile
Want to increase your biking journey after exploring the size of East Coast Park? Continue east in the direction of the Changi Coast Outdoor Adventure Learning 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 Five Guys, Jumbo Seafood or one of many mall’s different well-liked eating places.
8. Central Urban Loop
Get a exercise on the Central Urban Loop whereas making stops at iconic housing estates resembling Toa Payoh, Whampoa and Ang Mo Kio. The complete route is linked by way of the Park Connector Network, so remember that you just’ll be sharing the biking routes with these out for his or her walks and jogs. Along the 36km stretch, you’ll see the old-school Toa Payoh Town Park, the beautiful Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park (preserve an eye fixed out for otters) and the soothing Kallang River.
This article was initially printed on 5 September 2020 and up to date on 5 January 2023.