Explore Singapore: Under The Radar Hiking Trails
As Singapore re-enters Phase Two with heightened alert and stricter measures, it is as if we’re experiencing Circuit Breaker once again. With only two people allowed out at once, it’s the perfect time to grab a friend and get outside to explore in this sunny island to keep your steps up while avoiding crowds at other hiking trails!
Seah Im Bunker
Hidden in Keppel Hill Reservoir is the forgotten Seah Im Bunker that dates back to World War II. Keppel Hill Reservoir is an area less travelled with beautiful natural blue tinted serene waters on a plot of land that was essentially forgotten for about 60 years. First documented in Singapore’s maps in 1924, Keppel Hill Reservoir strangely became unlisted in the 1950s, and it was only ‘rediscovered’ in 2014 by the National Heritage Board.
Getting to Seah Im Bunker is not a challenging feat, however it is recommended to head down during a dry period as it may get muddy with no proper hiking route – and don’t forget to bring along a torchlight to explore the bunker.
Fort Serapong
Though you may not be able to head to the sunny beach clubs at Sentosa for the time being, you can still head on over to the little island to venture into a less travelled road and visit Fort Serapong. This lesser-known trail in Sentosa will lead you to one of the many fortifications used to protect Singapore under British rule during WWII.
Though the entrance to Serapong Hill is not listed on Google Maps, you’ll be able to reach the destination by taking Sentosa bus 3 at Beach Station and walking along Cove Ave into Woolwhich Road, where you’ll spot a sign that says ‘Serapong Hill Road’. Once you’ve trekked through Fort Serapong, it’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a post-apocalyptic world with abandoned bunkers, batteries, and structures that you can explore.
Tanjong Rimau
Last but not least, Tanjong Rimau is located at the western tip of Sentosa Island. Take a hike around the western coastal areas of Sentosa and explore the marine diversity that the Singaporean waters have to offer.
Tanjong Rimau beach can be accessed from the edge of the compound occupied by Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa by descending the rocky slope to the beach. During low tides, you’ll be able to spot marine creatures like coral, crabs, and starfish along the coastline. However, be aware of stonefish that may be hiding in the sand as their spines are highly venomous and fatal!