Tourism in Singapore isn’t all about sightseeing, shopping, dining or nightlife. There is plenty of nature snuggled within the contemporary cityscape that deserves plenty of attention, especially if you are a nature lover. The best places to see wildlife in Singapore is at the famous attractions like the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari. These two attractions along with many reservoirs and primary forests are collectively known as the Central Catchment Nature Reserve.
The Central Catchment Nature Reserve is the largest nature park in Singapore spanning more than 450 hectares. The abundance of greenery, fresh air and serene ambience here is ideal for the traveller who is usually bound by the concrete jungles and noisy streets. There are about four reservoirs snuggled in this nature park, which are considered Singapore’s key reservoirs. These encompass MacRitchie, Upper Seletar, Lower Pierce and Upper Pierce.
Among them MacRitchie Reservoir is the oldest in Singapore built in the late 1860s. It is an impounding reservoir, in other words one that releases its collected water through sluice gates during dry seasons to help farmers with their cultivation. MacRitchie Reservoir was initially known by the names of Impounding Reservoir and Thomson Road Reservoir. Its present name was coined after the reservoir’s designer and builder, Engineer James MacRitchie.
The majority of the remaining primary forest of Singapore can be found today in MacRitchie Reservoir, which makes it an ideal place for excursions. Around the massive body of water you can find promenades cutting through the primary and secondary forests and winding boardwalks. A stroll along these set paths while listening to the sounds of the jungle critters and watching the soft ripples of the serene waters will wrap you entirely in a world of bliss.
An unusual but striking zigzag bridge will take you to the performing arts pavilion, perched on the reservoir. There are fishing grounds and sites for kayaking. For the active and the sporty there are trails for jogging and spaces for breaking a sweat with a good workout. Even a fitness centre is installed in the premises, immersed with the freshest and natural oxygen from the forests.
MacRitchie Reservoir is ideal for family outings. While the parents can de-stress and unwind in the bliss of greenery, children can also learn to enjoy countless wonders of nature itself. The place is also frequented by bird watchers ranging from amateurs to professionals who wouldn’t want to miss the beauty of nature in all its glory.
Take your family and loved ones to a place abundant in nature teeming with life and mild soothing sounds that will instantly calm your mind. Stay at one of the cosy hotels Singapore where you can start exploring the nation’s green lungs, the MacRitchie Reservoir. If you prefer a strategically placed accommodation, try the M Hotel Singapore that rests in the heart of the financial district. Take pleasure in this award winning hotel in Singapore that offers an array of irresistible specials that will help you to enjoy a memorable holiday in Singapore.
