Round Island Route: Discover Singapore by Park Connectors (Phase 1 - Eastern Loop)
Cheng-San LokeSingapore’s Round Island Route (RIR) is set to become one of the country’s most exciting outdoor projects — a continuous recreational loop that will eventually circle the entire island. Designed for cyclists, joggers, walkers and nature lovers, the route brings together park connectors, green spaces and coastal paths into one seamless experience.
Phase 1, launched in January 2022, marks a major milestone. Covering about 75 kilometres, it connects the eastern half of Singapore, offering a fresh and scenic way to explore the city beyond roads and pavements.
🌿 What Does Phase 1 Cover?
Phase 1 of the Round Island Route stretches from Rower’s Bay Park in the north-east down to Berlayer Creek in the south. Along the way, it links a series of well-known parks and nature areas, including:
- Sengkang Riverside Park
- Pasir Ris Park
- Changi Beach Park
- East Coast Park
- Southern coastal park connectors
These connections allow users to enter or exit the route at multiple points, making it flexible for short rides, long cycling journeys or relaxed weekend walks.
🌉 Designed for Comfort and Safety
One of the highlights of Phase 1 is how thoughtfully it has been built. The route includes new cycling bridges and widened paths that improve connectivity and reduce the need to cross busy roads. This makes longer rides safer and more enjoyable, especially for families and casual cyclists.
Shelters, seating areas and rest points are placed at key locations, allowing users to take breaks, hydrate or simply enjoy the surroundings. Clear signages also help guide users along the route.
🌊 A Journey Through Nature and Coastlines
Unlike typical urban cycling routes, the Round Island Route places strong emphasis on nature and biodiversity. Parts of Phase 1 run along the coastline, featuring boardwalks and viewing pavilions where users can enjoy open sea views and coastal breezes.
Special marine-friendly tiles have been installed in some coastal sections to support marine life such as crabs and small sea creatures. These small design touches reflect Singapore’s effort to balance recreation with environmental sustainability.
Wildlife sightings are also possible along the way. Otters, birds and other coastal species are occasionally spotted, especially near mangrove areas and waterways.
🚶♂️ Who Is the Route For?
Phase 1 of the Round Island Route is suitable for:
- Cyclists looking for long, uninterrupted rides
- Joggers and walkers who prefer scenic, traffic-free paths
- Families seeking safe outdoor activities
- Nature lovers who want to explore Singapore’s green network
Whether you complete a short section or challenge yourself to cover the entire 75 km, the route offers something for everyone.
🌱 Looking Ahead
Phase 1 is just the beginning. When fully completed, the Round Island Route will form a 150 km loop around Singapore, strengthening the nation’s park connector network and encouraging a more active lifestyle.
For now, Phase 1 already stands as a reminder that Singapore’s urban landscape is never far from nature — all you need is a bicycle, a pair of walking shoes, and a little curiosity to explore.
