For those long-time readers who’s been with us since our beginning, you might remember a certain entry about our trip along the Southern Ridges:
We looked… just about the same eh heh
Well, we made good on our promise to continue the trail (albeit not along the Southern Ridges per se) and headed to Labrador Nature Reserve to complete our adventure at the southernmost point of Singapore! The southern tip of Singapore is mostly known as home to shipping ports, Vivocity and Sentosa, but Labrador Nature Reserve boasts a rich heritage dating back to our founding days!
Most notable are the wartime relics that have been preserved, including several battlement sites, a machine gun post and underground passageways (which were not accessible at the time of this entry). Nearby, the coastline beckoned, with ships and offshore islands lining the horizon. It was a hot day, and as with any outdoor nature parks, insect repellent is a must-use (eh heh). Follow us on our journey below!
Pointing the way forward!Along the way to the Labrador Nature Reserve, there were old housing estates/state land which havecordoned off. We didn’t dare try to go in there…
It was a hot and sunny day, but that did not deter us from climbing the gradual slope up toward the Labrador Nature Reserve!Creepy crawlies of all sorts can naturally be seen at the nature reserve; catching this eight-legged spider building its intricate web was quite difficult, but worth it!A boardwalk built to look over the coastline and the park; clearly we were not alone.A typical man-made nature path found in the Labrador Nature Reserve. We spotted squirrels, different species of birds and many, many insects.Well-worn engraved stone tiles lined the nature path.We spotted the Breech Loading Gun, which were stationed to defend against the incoming Japanese forces during WWII. However, the Japanese came from the north of Singapore (through Malaya), rather than the ocean-side. Contrary to popular belief, these guns could actually turn inward, but because they were designed to pierce armour (of ships), they were ineffective against the infantry.Looking forth, reflecting back.One of the many (blocked) passageways for military use; Damian welcomes all…!One of the forts at Labrador, which has been preserved (somewhat).After walking through the Labrador Nature Reserve (which took about half an hour), we reached the coast of the Labrador Park. In the distance beyond the shores, many ships can be seen stationed.
Spying; one of the many coastal vantage points that remain untouched and served as a reminder of Singapore’s wartime history.The Berlayer red beacon, which serves as a navigational guide for ships entering Singapore territory; but this wasn’t the first in Singapore’s history…… Batu Berlayer, long ya men… these are names given to the tall rock formation found at the southern tip of Labrador Park. This is in fact a replica of the original rocky outcrop, which served as a navigational outpost for sailors in the 18th century.From old to new; the Bukit Chermin colonial house, juxtaposed against the newer, modern architecture.Spot the ‘odd’ one out…?
The Bukit Chermin Boardwalk; starting from Labrador Park toward the promenade of Reflections at Keppel Bay, the walk by the coastline was brief, the sun was hot (and we were hungry by then haha).Along Keppel Bay, rows of private yachts and boats adorn the docking bay; this is a place for the wealthy.
Smile for the camera!Look out…!
As always, we never just bring only one camera on our adventures; we had our Lomo’Instant Wide to accompany us, and our developed films were looking good on a bright day as this. We used an expired Halloween-themed instant film, and to be honest they turned out quite all right!
Damian in the background standing next to the gun barrel!The view of the Berlayer beacon in the foreground, with Tanjong Rimau island further back.
Damian looking sanguine…Along Labrador Park’s coastline. Further from the shore are shipyards, a testament to Singapore’s bolstering maritime industry.Sandra standing on the Boardwalk, in front of the Bukit Chermin colonial house!
The Labrador Nature Reserve and the adjacent park was a shorter conquest in comparison to the regular hikes we have taken in the past; nevertheless, a unique point is its proximity to the coast, which we enjoyed very much! We look forward to our next hike/trail march, and of course, we will not forget to share with our readers!
Damian with Sandra 