Anastasia Smith
For a city as small, urbanised, and densely populated as Singapore, the city-state is home to a whole host of urban nature parks, brimming with lush greenery. Savour oodles of nature and beauty in the stunning “Garden City”, treating yourself to a nature experience like no other on your city getaway.
The urban nature park, spanning 101 hectares, is located in the midst of the city-state and attracts an astonishing 50 million visitors every year. While this number may sound shocking at first, it is not a surprise to those who have had the privilege of experiencing this paradise-like park. The park consists of three waterfront gardens, namely Bay South Garden, Bay East Garden, and Bay Central Garden, which offer visitors an abundance of greenery. However, the park's main attraction is the Supertree Grove consisting of 18 "Supertrees" that give off an "alien-like" aura, making it the crown jewel of the Lion City.
Dating back 165 years to its inception in 1859, the 82-hectare tropical garden is one of the oldest — or rather the oldest of all gardens in Singapore. The tranquil nature oasis basks in the glory of being one of three gardens and the only tropical garden to be honoured as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While it’s the leading flagship stores, international fashion labels and eclectic boutiques that draw the crowds to fabled Orchard Road, the Botanic Gardens on the fringe of the bustling shopping district makes for a quick nature escape in the widely metropolitan quarter.
Untouched and rather undiscovered yet nestled in densely populated Bishan and Ang Mo Kio neighbourhoods, this park is an oasis of serenity under the radar. Wallow in the peace and quiet of the tranquil nature spot and retreat to one of the best places to stay in Singapore the likes of Value Hotel Nice, and continue your exploration of the lush, the green, and the verdant in the Garden City.
Nestled high away in the country’s highest natural peak, Bukit Timah Hill, the eponymous nature reserve, makes for a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of the lively metropolis. The nearly 2 square kilometres of protected forest reserve is a treat, particularly for avid adventurers, as the secluded nature quarter is brimming with ample opportunity for hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking and many more exciting adventures.
Far and away from the metropolitan city-state, Singapore’s oldest and largest reservoir plays host to adventurers, explorers and simply any soul looking for a taste of nature in the Lion City. Visitors to the scenic reservoir park are sure to find nature’s respite in the serene waterside, complemented by a host of delightful outdoor activities — the Treetop Walk and the 11-kilometre walking trail being the most prominent — treating everyone to a world of bliss.
