Best Walks in Sydney

Sydney is the place to be for that glorious outdoor livin’. With year-round tepid temperatures, ample stretches of beaches and generous parklands surrounding the city, there’s no reason to stay inside. Whether you enjoy a scenic coastal walk or an inland trek, there’s plenty of beautiful nature walks close to the city for those who like to combine fitness and sightseeing.

Bondi to Bronte

This is the most famous, most walked track in Sydney – and for good reasons. Not only is it easy to get to, and passes between two of Australia’s best-known beaches, Bondi and Bronte, it boasts sweeping coastal vistas all year round. There are many incredible vantage points and photo opportunities along the way – keep your eyes peeled for the sandstone lookout at Hunter Park.

Watsons Bay

The star walk of the south headland, the Watsons Bay parade is by far one of the most scenic coastal walks, featuring stunning views of Sydney Harbour, city skyline, the Pacific Ocean, North Head and the historic Hornby Lighthouse. This walk is accessible for those who want to drive from another location, but the carpark can be busy on weekends. You can also catch the ferry to Watsons Bay from Circular Quay which is a nice opportunity to see even more of Sydney Harbour, the sailing ships, and not to mention the prestigious waterfront mansions.

Coogee to Bondi

Coogee to Bondi, Bondi to Coogee – it’s equally as beautiful no matter what location you start in. Coogee Beach is a little slice of heaven, protected from ocean swells by nearby Wedding Cake Island, in a divine little enclave of Sydney (and near an all-time fave hangout, the Coogee Pavillion). Begin your walk here and trek off to Bondi, passing through beautiful Bronte and secluded Gordon’s Bay. There’s ample opportunity to stop along the way for a bit of respite at one of the local coffee shops, and don’t miss the famous Waverly Cemetery (final resting place of legendary Aussie poet, Henry Lawson). Finally, you’ll end up in Bondi where the people are hot and the beers are cool.

Katoomba Falls

We’re cheating a little here, as this walk is not exactly that close to the city, but it’s one of the most beautiful, so we couldn’t leave it off the list. Also, it can often be overlooked by tourists, which is a bit of a win win. Located in the Blue Mountains, about two hours by car from Sydney, Katoomba Falls is arguably one of the prettiest waterfalls in the Blue Mountains and forms part of the Kedumba River, which descends about 150 metres into the Jamison Valley. The scenic trail gets you close to the falls and is a short but well worth it circuit through lush rainforest and the Jamison Valley.

words by sophie rennard