Cycling enthusiasts who have explored all possible trekking routes in Singapore, listen up. You will be glad to know that part of the new Round Island Route (RIR) has now opened.
The National Parks has announced that the eastern half of the Round Island Route (RIR) - a continuous 75-kilometre-long park connector trail - is now open to the public. Stretching from Seletar all the way to Labrador Park, this eastern half of the park is just the first phase of the Round Island Route. When completed, the 150km Round Island Route will be the longest recreational connection that loops the island.
The RIR is also part of National Parks’ overall plans to curate a 360km islandwide network of recreational routes, boasting eight different trails, by 2035. So if you wish to challenge yourself for a long cycling ride when it fully opens, remember to check your bicycle, plan your rest stops and remember to hydrate!
The Eastern Half of the Round Island Route
The eastern stretch of the RIR, starts from Rower’s Bay Park in Seletar, goes through Sengkang Riverside Park, Pasir Ris Park, Changi Bay Park and ends at Berlayer Creek near Labrador Park. The route aims to connect existing natural, cultural, historical and recreational sites, while providing opportunities for recreational activities including cycling, walking and skating.
The long green corridor also boasts several other features including marine tiles along the coast, which provides habitats for marine life. Together with the grooves, pits and crevices, the tiles are made to support marine life including crabs, snails, starfish and other marine biodiversity to thrive. Around 5,100 trees and shrubs have been planted along the Round Island Route eastern stretch, providing visitors with shade and respite from the sweltering heat.
Experience new sights when you take the cycling bridges at Changi Bay Point – a 140-metre-long stretch made out of slip-resistant glass fibre and reinforced concrete - that also provides a beautiful view of the waterfront. For the marine diversity lovers, get closer to the water’s edge along the boardwalk at Changi Bay Point and admire the tranquil scenery of the blue waters and cooling sea breeze. Another key feature of the trail is the Sengkang Riverside Bridge, which connects both Sengkang Riverside Park and Sungei Punggol together, and brings visitors closer to the forested nature. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the otters that live among the mangroves and coastal areas. However, please try not to get too close to them because they might just bite.
Rest stops in this long trail are at Changi Bay Point, Sengkang Riverside Park and Jalan Kayu. These sheltered stops come with solar panel charging points, bicycle parking lots, and toilets.
So gear up and discover new sights along the long route together with your cycling buddies. Alternatively, you can also have a calming stroll and enjoy some time off amidst nature or find a new Insta-worthy place for the ‘gram.
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