Sydney’s one of the most famous harbor cities in the world. From the beautiful natural harbor that is central to Sydney’s identity to the unmistakeable silhouette of the Sydney Opera House, the drama of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the legendary beaches that foster a coastal lifestyle of surfing, sunbathing, barbecue parties and boating, Sydney is all about its one-of-a-kind outdoor lifestyle.
With its breathtaking landscapes, stunning coastal views, and some renowned trails, Sydney’s already a hiker’s paradise. Now a new walking track captures iconic scenic views and Sydney’s heritage from a whole new angle.
Scenic Wonders and Military History in Sydney Harbour National Park
The new walking track, linking Middle Head–Gubbuh Gubbuh and Georges Head, is now open in Sydney Harbour National Park. In addition to providing walkers with an iconic, scenic harbor experience, with new lookout points and even a new bridge with views across the harbor, what really sets this new trail apart is how it showcases the area’s military heritage.
The nearly-2-mile walking track immerses visitors in over 220 years of Sydney’s defence history with a collection of restored defence structures, dating from 1801 all the way to the Vietnam War. Installations, including signage and digital installations, bring to life the site’s rich past.
This multi-million dollar project took six years to complete. It delivers the missing link between the headlands of the Park, and connects to Chowder Bay and the Bondi to Manly Walk, creating a seamless walking experience for visitors.
Now you can walk through restored World War II twin 6-pounder gun casemates and military fortifications such as the Inner and Outer Defensive Ditches, which were carved around the headland to protect fortifications from land-based attacks.
The new bridge across the large Outer Defensive Ditch is the place that offers stunning views across Sydney’s foreshore and inner harbour.
Visitors can also see the re-furbished 19th century former New South Wales School of Artillery buildings sitting as they would have 150 years ago.
There’s even the ‘Engine Room,’ located at the Outer Fort at Middle Head, which was re-purposed in the 1950s to prepare Army officers for possible capture and interrogation during the Malayan Emergency and later Vietnam War and holds the notorious ‘Tiger Cages’.
Growing Network of Sydney Hiking Trails
The new track is the newest addition to Sydney’s already robust collection of unique and scenic trails and walks. Lace up your walking shoes and hit these other tracks in Australia’s capital:
Sydney Harbour National Park – North Head Walk
The new trail helps fill in a gap in the trail system that already exists in Sydney Harbour National Park. The 1-mile, North Head Walk in Sydney Harbour National Park takes you through beautiful coastal bushland, with views of the harbour, the city skyline, and the Pacific Ocean. It’s a great option for a shorter hike, perfect for a few hours of exploration.
Spit Bridge to Manly Walk
This scenic 6-mile trail takes you from Spit Bridge to Manly, offering an impressive mix of bushland, beaches, and harbour views. The walk crosses several small beaches and coves and provides opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the serenity of Sydney Harbour. It's a well-maintained path, with both easy and moderately challenging sections, making it perfect for an active day out.
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
One of the most iconic coastal walks in Sydney, the Bondi to Coogee Walk offers breathtaking ocean views. This 4-mile trail connects two of Sydney’s most famous beaches, Bondi and Coogee, passing through several smaller beaches. Along the way, you'll see dramatic cliffs, rock pools, and stunning coastal flora. It's a fairly easy walk, perfect for travelers who want a relaxed yet scenic journey.
Royal National Park – Coastal Track
Feeling more ambitious? Located just south of Sydney, the Royal National Park offers a range of hiking trails, with the Coastal Track being one of the most popular. This 16-mile trail follows the coastline, providing magnificent views of cliffs, beaches, and rainforests. The trail can be completed in one or two days, and highlights include Wedding Cake Rock, a striking white sandstone formation, and the serene Figure Eight Pools. This is a slightly more challenging hike, ideal for those looking for a full day or overnight adventure.
START YOUR TRIP!
Top Image: Aerial shot of Obelisk battery observation tower and casemate, looking toward Obelisk Beach, Sydney Harbour National Park Image Credit: DCCEEW
Bottom Image: Getty. View from Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
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