https://www.thepeakmagazine.com.sg/lifestyle/a-guide-to-walking-in-singapore/
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SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS
With plenty of manicured sights and no shortage of local wildlife – hello, otters, monitor lizards and friends – and birds, there’s a lot going on at this Unesco World Heritage site. An entire round around the gardens is about 6km – although multiple winding routes can easily add to that number. We’re fond of the ones that go past the two lakes and the tree-covered rainforest trail. And, unlike most other routes, it’s possible to go one big round to end up right where you started here, so driving down is a possibility. There’s parking at Jacob-Ballas Children’s Garden, National Orchid Garden and Cluny Court.
BITES: There are several eateries within the gardens. Head to Bee’s Knees at The Garage or Halia for breakfast and casual bistro fare. Botanico serves Asian-inspired European plates. And Corner House is one of the rare fine dining restaurants that allows you to wear bermudas so long as you have covered shoes.
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THE RAIL CORRIDOR TO CLEMENTI FOREST
One of the longer routes to follow is the northern half of the Rail Corridor – a stretch that follows the decommissioned KTM railway from Kranji MRT and goes through Dairy Farm Road to Old Bukit Timah Railway Station – that adds up to roughly 16km. For a more manageable 5km trek, start at Rail Mall, walk down to Old Bukit Timah Train Station and exit through Clementi Forest, an unpaved track leading to the portion of Clementi Road opposite Ngee Ann Polytechnic.
BITES: While there are no eateries along the way, some highlights a short distance away include the inimitable Summer Hill at Clementi Street 12 for fuss-free, delicious French bistro fare and Go K BBQ at Bukit Timah Plaza that ages meats in-house.
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CHANGI POINT COASTAL WALK TO CHANGI BEACH PARK
With plenty of flat, even ground, this route is suitable for beginners or those who just want a 4km stroll. Starting at Gosport Road, follow the boardwalk to Changi Beach Park, circle around the islet and end at Changi Village. For those who are driving, the best starting and end point would be Changi Village – backtracking from the end of the boardwalk adds about 2km to the total distance. Start in the late afternoon to catch a spectacular sunset from the aptly-named Sunset Walk that’s midway of the boardwalk.
BITES: From the hawker centre to seafood restaurants and Indian-Muslim eateries, Changi Village has got you covered. Also popular is Little Island Brewing with house-brewed craft beers, Western food and a barbecue section. Try the Balinese pork ribs to refuel after your exertion.
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MOUNT FABER TO KENT RIDGE PARK
It’s a 7km hike with a fair number of uphill climbs takes you through multiple parks – starting with Mount Faber to the picturesque Henderson Waves and HortPark, and ending at Kent Ridge Park. Each park is also in itself a good walk with plenty of possible detours, including exploring the various gardens in HortPark or moving on to Labrador Park.
BITES: Dusk Restaurant & Bar at Mount Faber has casual Western and great views. Hit Alkaff Mansion for Spanish cuisine and Vineyard at HortPark for bistro fare and wine. Alternatively, Naked Finn at Gillman Barracks offers some of the best seafood-centric cooking in town.
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SUNGEI BULOH WETLANDS RESERVE
Pack those binoculars. This area is popular with birdwatchers and for its nature trails. A route starting at the Kranji Way car park that goes through the visitor centre and around the wetlands is about 7km. If you want to extend your walk, travelling 3km down Neo Tiew Road brings you to the farms and the entrance to Kranji Marshes – a short detour that provides more opportunities for bird spotting. Most of the ground isn’t paved, so wear sturdy shoes.
BITES: One of the few options close by is Bistro Gardenasia at Neo Tiew Crescent. It uses ingredients sourced from nearby farms, like the mullet used in the assam fish chowder. For a more rustic experience, Poison Ivy at Bollywood Veggies does farm-to-table dishes prepared in a wholesome, hearty style.
(Related: When permissible: 5 island properties to check out)
Gear up
Inject a little style into your trips. Z Zegna has a range of activewear that comes in different styles such as a sweatshirt made from heat-regulating Techmerino or #UseTheExisting bermuda shorts produced from recycled cotton. Mr Porter also has options, like the sturdy Yosemite Belted Cordura Shorts that combines mountaineering chic with streetwear.
Walk well
Remember to do some light stretching before embarking on your journey. Proper posture also reduces the strain on your body, so keep your chin parallel to the ground, step heel to toe and avoid shuffling. A pair of thick, cushioned socks also go a long way to preventing blisters.
(Related: Experience La Clique’s mix of circus and cabaret at Marina Bay Sands)
