Are you craving for a driving escapade but unsure about the good spots to explore around Singapore? While the island is populated with soaring buildings and iconic architecture, there are still a good number of wonderfully undiscovered gems in the city.
Whether you are in search of the perfect backdrop to take stunning photos, or just want to escape the hectic demands from the bustling city, we have compiled a list of five secret spots in Singapore that are worth driving to.
Photo credits: 1-Group
Singapore’s first pintxo (pronounced pin-cho) bar, TXA (pronounced cha) focuses on Basque cuisine and is located at level one of the building. The Alkaff Mansion’s culinary team has partnered with Basqvium, the so-called guardians of Basque cuisine in and outside of Spain and have set up the Spanish Cuisine Development Group to ensure the authenticity of its dishes. Some of its members include Basque Chefs Marta Elvira Segalés and Silvana Pascual Romero, both of whom are graduates of the prestigious Basque Culinary Institute. Together, these renowned chefs have gone to extreme lengths to ensure diners get the true Spainish culinary experience by crafting menus that showcase the region’s lavish produce, exquisite dishes and invigorating drinks.
In terms of its setting, the décor is warm and welcoming, with a great touch of dark wood that compliments the warmth and romance to this majestic space. Remember to make reservations for indoor seating and revel in the gorgeous space that has an expansive pintxo bar counter in the middle and indulge yourself in the vibrant culture. Otherwise, get comfortable at the outdoor area and order yourself your favourite beverages from their wide range of selection of beers, wines, ciders, signature cocktails along with their delicious small plates.
Address: 10 Telok Blangah Green, Singapore 109178
Opening Hours: 5pm – 11 pm (Tues – Sun), Closed on Mon
Contact: +65 8123 8484
Photo credits: Bollywood Veggies
Known as Paradise on Earth, Bollywood Veggies is a sanctuary located in the rustic environment of the Northwest Kranji countryside. Mrs. Ivy Singh-Lim and Mr. Lim Ho Seng are the two founders of the greenspace, both previously worked in the corporate world for many years. Instead of retiring, they decided to invest in farming when they realized their vision of life on a functioning farm in Singapore. Thankfully with the support of then Minister of State for National Development Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, their farm dream was made possible. In 2000, their 10-acre farm opened its gates to the public.
Bollywood Veggies has evolved into a successful attraction over the years. There are over a hundred varieties of plants being grown on the farm today, including native fruits that are rarely used in popular dishes. Another great fact about the farm is that it operates using sustainable methods with no pesticides nor fertilizers used on site. Effectively making it an organic, planet-friendly operation. Moreover, it makes use of resource-saving techniques such as rain-collection ponds, irrigation canals and chemical-free agriculture.
Though a small farm, there is more than meets the eye about the place. For only a $2 entry charge, visitors will get an insight into the food they consume on a daily basis. If there is enough to spare, you can also pick up a few fresh organic fruits or vegetables to complete your journey.
Location: 100 Neo Tiew Road (Kranji), Singapore 719026
Opening Hours: 7am – 5.15pm (Wed – Fri), 7am – 7.30 pm (Sat, Sun & PH), Closed on Mon & Tues unless PH
Contact: +65 6898 5001
Photo credits: Gardenasia
Gardenasia’s Farmstay Villas is set in the Kranji Countryside and is an ideal place for the perfect family getaway. The three-villas here are spread across over two hectares of lush escape and lets you discover modern rural living.
There are limited villas – each decorated with its own respective distinct style – which makes it an excellent option for those who are longing to have a serene experience and seeking to have a temporary break from civilization. The villas here are designed after the colonial houses of yore and equipped with their own walk-up staircase. With each villa leading straight to the pool, guests will surely be tempted to take a dip. For some quality family bonding time, other amenities here include a tennis court, amphitheatre and billiards table. More reasons to get off your devices and enjoy the beautiful outdoors while you are here.
Location: 240 Neo Tiew Cres, Singapore 718898
Accommodation: From $280 per night
Contact: +65 6898 9111
Photo credits: Bukit Timah Saddle Club
If you want to head into the glorious sunset with your damsel on horseback, step one is to learn how to ride. The Bukit Timah Saddle Club (BTSC) will help bring your daydreams to life by providing professional lessons on riding our equine friends.
The horse-riding school is conveniently located off Bukit Timah Road, surrounded by lush tropical greenery that offers the perfect setting for casual leisure riding. Fret not, visitors do not need to be a member to take part in these exciting trail rides with the horses as well as the introductory horse-riding courses. Plus, it is a kid’s wonderland during the weekends. For only $10, kids under the age 12 will have the chance to experience the thrill of pony riding.
Location: 51 Fairways Drive (Off Eng Neo Avenue), Singapore 286965
Opening Hours: 7am – 11am, 3.30pm – 7pm (Tues – Sun), Closed on Mon
Contact: +65 6466 2782
Photo credits: Visit Singapore
Those who missed out on Japan’s famous cherry blossoms this year can consider an alternative much closer to home. The Japanese Cemetery Park is famed for its lush greenery and Japanese-inspired architecture. The park is also home to a long row of arches adorned with a native plant species, bougainvillea. When the flowers are in full bloom, the archways make for a picturesque photo reminiscent of springtime in temperate countries.
The Japanese Cemetery Park was first established in 1891 and was used to serve the burial needs of the Japanese residents in Singapore. In that same year, three brothel keepers, Futaki Takajiro, Shibuya Ginji and Nakagawa Kikuzo successfully obtained permission from the government to build a cemetery. It was created specifically for the destitute Japanese prostitutes who breathed their last in Singapore but no final resting place. In 1973, the cemetery was closed to burials and named a memorial park in 1987.
Now, the memorial park is the largest and most well-preserved Japanese cemetery in Southeast Asia, measuring approximately 30,000 square meters and houses over 1,000 graves. Though perfect for your social media feed, this scenic cemetery still serves as a memorial park. Therefore, we highly advised visitors to not neglect the significance of this sacred ground when taking pictures there.
Location: 22 Chuan Hoe Avenue, Singapore 549854
Opening Hours: 8am – 6pm (Opens daily)
Contact: +65 6468 0066
Keen to explore these amazing locations by road or planning a long-distance trip anytime soon? Singapore Car Rental is a car rental company in Singapore that offers reliable car rental services for your travelling needs. Contact us today and travel with ultimate comfort throughout your trip.
