Singapore may be a tiny island, but it is filled with adventurous biking routes and cycling trails just waiting to be explored. Whether you want to admire the nooks and crannies of the city or immerse yourself in nature, there is a cycling route in Singapore for everyone. In this article, we will take a look at the best cycling routes in Singapore that will allow you to experience the beauty of the island to the fullest.

1. Round Island Route (RIR)

The Round Island Route is a must-try for cycling enthusiasts. While only the eastern half is currently open, stretching from Rower's Bay in Seletar to Berlayer Creek near Labrador Park, this route offers cool sights and stunning scenery. Along the way, you will pass by Seletar Aerospace Park and the black and white houses near The Oval. Be sure to make stops at the various bridges in Sengkang and Punggol to admire the scenery. The Jewel Bridge at Punggol Waterway Park is a great spot to take photos and enjoy the sunset or sunrise.

Start point: Rower's Bay, Lower Seletar Reservoir Park

2. Changi Airport Connector

The Changi Airport Connector is a 3.5-km stretch that allows cyclists to easily make their way to Changi Airport, including the mega-mall, Jewel Changi Airport. This route is also home to Changi Jurassic Mile, where you can spot life-sized dinosaurs such as T-Rex and raptors. You can rent a bicycle or fuel up at Changi Airport's Hub & Spoke for added convenience.

Start point: Hub & Spoke, Changi Airport

3. Chestnut Nature Park

For mountain biking fun, head to Chestnut Nature Park. This is the city's largest nature park and offers North and South mountain biking trails that wind through different terrains. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there is something for everyone. Don't forget to check out the pump track if you're up for some bike stunts.

Start point: Chestnut Nature Park

4. Southern Ridges

If you're looking for scenic sights, hop on your bike and explore the Southern Ridges trail. This trail takes you from Alexandra Arch to Telok Blangah Hill Park to Henderson Waves, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and greenery. After a challenging climb up the hill, you'll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city from Mount Faber Park.

Start point: HortPark

5. Mandai Loop

For calming views and beautiful nature sights, make your way to Orchard Road and cycle towards Novena and Upper Thomson Road. The Mandai Loop takes you around the central catchment nature reserve, also known as MacRitchie, offering a mix of challenging slopes and soothing sights.

Start point: Orchard MRT

6. Northern Explorer Loop

Discover the Sungei Cina river, open grassland, and a mangrove swamp at Admiralty Park with the Northern Explorer Loop. This route is rich in biodiversity and you might even spot a mudskipper or two along the way. Enjoy the cool breeze as you cycle along Woodlands Waterfront and make sure to explore Beaulieu House, Sembawang Jetty, and Seletar Pier at Sembawang Park.

Start point: Admiralty Park

7. Central Urban Loop

For those who want to explore the heartlands of Singapore, the Central Urban Loop is perfect. This trail takes you through some of the oldest districts like Toa Payoh and younger estates such as Punggol. Along the Whampoa Park Connector, make sure to stop by Balestier Road, a famous hawker haunt with amazing food. Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park is also a great spot for a picnic with scenic open spaces and wildflowers along the river bank.

Start point: Toa Payoh Town Park

8. Northern Eastern Riverine Loop

Punggol is a great place to unwind and the Northern Eastern Riverine Loop allows you to explore this cycling town. The 26km loop connects four parks and offers breathtaking riverside and wetland views, as well as meandering stretches of coastal trees and stunning foliage. Take your time to appreciate the scenery and stop by hidden heartland cafes like Whisk and Paddle for brunch and coffee.

Start point: Punggol Park

9. Western Adventure Loop

The Western Adventure Loop is a picturesque trail that takes you through green corridors and tropical terrains. Start off at Bukit Batok Town Park and make your way to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, where you can admire the resident pangolins and listen to bird songs. The last leg of the journey takes you through Pang Sua Park Connector, where you can discover two charming butterfly gardens.

Start point: Bukit Batok Town Park

10. Eastern Coastal Loop

Pasir Ris and East Coast are two of the most popular cycling routes in Singapore. The Eastern Coastal Loop links Pasir Ris Town Park to East Coast and Changi Beach Park, offering gorgeous views from various jetties and a chance to indulge in local food at Bedok Food Centre and East Coast Lagoon Food Village.

Start point: Pasir Ris Town Park

11. Eastern Coastal Loop Extension

The Eastern Coastal Loop Extension takes you around Singapore's most famous landmarks, including the Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, and the Singapore Flyer. Start in the late evening to catch the sunset over the Singapore skyline.

Start point: Tanjong Rhu Promenade, located opposite Singapore Sports Hub

12. Coast-to-Coast (C2C) Trail

The Coast-to-Coast (C2C) Trail is perfect for those looking to dash through the green spaces across the island. Spanning 36km, this cycling route cuts across 18 parks and nature areas, as well as 11 park connectors. Download the Coast-to-Coast (C2C) mobile app to make the most out of your adventure.

Start point: Jurong Lake Gardens

13. Pulau Ubin

For a breath of fresh air and untouched nature, head to Pulau Ubin. This largely untouched island is charmingly rustic and still retains remnants of old Singapore life. Explore the rustic village, hike up Ubin's highest hill, and visit serene quarries for an adrenaline-pumping mountain biking adventure.

Start point: Pulau Ubin Village

14. Coney Island

Coney Island offers untouched nature and a rustic terrain perfect for cycling. Cycle along the 2.4km main path or venture off the beaten tracks to discover hidden gems.

Start point: Punggol Settlement

15. Khatib Loop

Once a secret among serious cyclists, Khatib Loop is now gaining popularity. This 16km trail starts at Khatib MRT station and takes you to Singapore Naval Base, where you can enjoy views of Johor Straits. Along the way, you'll also come across a cluster of black and white colonial bungalows and a small bunker along Gibraltar Crescent. Don't forget to visit Sembawang Hot Spring Park before you leave.

Start point: Khatib MRT station

16. Kranji Road to Lim Chu Kang Road

If you love the countryside, a cycling trip from Kranji Road to Lim Chu Kang Road is perfect for you. This 20km route takes you through hidden farms in Kranji Countryside, Kranji War Memorial, and Sungei Buloh Wetlands Reserve.

Start point: Kranji MRT station

Go ahead and embark on these cycling routes to explore the best of Singapore. Whether you're into scenic views, mountain biking, nature, history, or local food, there is a route for you. Get on your bike and start your adventure today!

December 07, 2023 — Douglas Koh

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