For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature, the Southern Ridges of Singapore offers a perfect day out. Stretching over 10 kilometers, this scenic trail links several parks and nature reserves, providing breathtaking views, lush greenery, and an abundance of wildlife. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, a bit of exercise, and some stunning photo opportunities. Here’s a guide on how to spend a day exploring this beautiful part of Singapore.
1. Start at Mount Faber Park
Begin your journey at Mount Faber Park, one of Singapore’s oldest hilltop parks. It offers panoramic views of the city, the Southern Islands, and the harbor. The Faber Peak area is an excellent starting point for the Southern Ridges trail.
- Take the Cable Car: For a more scenic start, take the Singapore Cable Car from HarbourFront to Faber Peak. The cable car ride offers spectacular views of the city and outlying islands, including Sentosa. It’s a fun way to kick off your adventure.
- Mount Faber’s Lookout: If you prefer to start by foot, Mount Faber’s elevated position makes it a great spot for a morning walk. Head to the Faber Lookout to enjoy panoramic vistas of the city and harbor.
2. Walk Along the Henderson Waves
After taking in the views from Mount Faber, continue your walk along the Southern Ridges. The next highlight is the Henderson Waves, a stunning wooden pedestrian bridge that spans Henderson Road.
- Architectural Wonder: The bridge is an iconic piece of architecture, with its undulating, wave-like design. At 36 meters above the ground, it offers one of the highest pedestrian points in Singapore and provides a fantastic vantage point for photos.
- Explore the Nature Around: The Henderson Waves is part of a larger park network, and walking here lets you immerse in the greenery of the Southern Ridges, with trees, flowers, and occasional wildlife sightings.
3. Explore the Forests of Telok Blangah Hill Park
From Henderson Waves, continue your journey to Telok Blangah Hill Park, which connects to the Southern Ridges. This park offers a variety of scenic paths surrounded by tropical greenery.
- Lush Trails: Walk through the park’s forested trails, which offer a serene experience amid towering trees, and occasionally, views of the nearby city skyline. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as birds, butterflies, and monkeys.
- The Canopy Walk: Telok Blangah Hill Park also features a Canopy Walk, a raised walkway that takes you through the treetops, offering a unique perspective of the park below.
4. Visit the Southern Ridges’ Other Parks
The Southern Ridges connects several parks, each offering its own unique experience:
- Labrador Nature Reserve: Located at the southern end of the trail, Labrador Nature Reserve is a coastal park with scenic views of the sea and the harbor. You’ll find remnants of Singapore’s colonial past, including wartime structures like the Coastal Defence Gun. The reserve is perfect for a short detour to explore the coast.
- Kent Ridge Park: If you have the energy for more walking, head toward Kent Ridge Park, which features lush greenery, rolling hills, and a small reservoir. It’s less crowded than some of the other parks and offers a peaceful environment for a leisurely stroll.
5. Take a Break and Enjoy a Picnic
After a morning of walking, you’ll likely want to relax and refuel. Several spots along the Southern Ridges offer picnic areas with tables and benches, making them perfect for a break.
- Picnic in the Parks: Consider bringing a packed lunch to enjoy in Telok Blangah Hill Park or Kent Ridge Park, both of which feature well-maintained picnic spots. Alternatively, you can visit the Henderson Waves or Labrador Nature Reserve for a quiet spot to rest and people-watch.
- Cafes and Eateries: If you’d prefer to grab lunch at a café, head back to HarbourFront, where there are plenty of dining options, or check out Faber Peak, which houses restaurants with a view, such as Spuds & Aprons.
Conclusion
The Southern Ridges is a beautiful and refreshing escape from the city, offering lush greenery, stunning views, and plenty of opportunities to connect with nature. Whether you’re interested in a leisurely walk, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, it’s the perfect place to spend a day exploring Singapore’s natural beauty. With its well-maintained trails, scenic lookouts, and peaceful parks, the Southern Ridges is a must-do for any nature lover or anyone looking for a unique way to experience Singapore.
