Sensational Sydney has enough appeal to make even the most hardened visitor consider a one-way move.
And that comes before you learn that the New South Wales capital’s surrounding region brims breathtaking natural beauty, Aboriginal and colonial history, and plenty of domestic critters to spot.
In short, this city and its environs have it all.
The Blue Mountains draw walkers with epic, bush-clad vistas and prehistoric forests in hidden valleys. The Hawkesbury River region and the Royal National Park both offer spectacular walking with water views. The Central Coast stretches north with uncrowded surf beaches and inlets rich with sea birds. And the Hunter Valley is blessed with leafy country roads dotted with producers of fine wine, chocolates and cheese.
Some of the richest experiences in all of Australia, these are the best day trips from Sydney.
1. See Aboriginal rock art and birdlife in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park
Travel time: 1 hour by car, 2 hours by bus
The majestic Hawkesbury River flows to the ocean past honeycomb-colored cliffs and historic townships, and into quiet bays and inlets. Along its course, it passes through a series of national parks, including the spectacular Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Preserved since 1894, the park takes its name from its original inhabitants, the Guringai people. Remnants of pre-colonial Aboriginal life are visible today thanks to the preservation of more than 800 sites, including rock paintings, middens and cave art.
For information about Ku-ring-gai and walks in the area stop by the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service information center at Bobbin Head (accessible by car). There’s also a marina, picnic areas, a cafe and a boardwalk leading through mangroves here.
Further inland, the riverside hamlet of Wisemans Ferry (yes, that’s the town’s name) spills over a bow of the Hawkesbury River. It’s another perfect spot to access the Hawkesbury, and its rich ecosystem of with bird life including kookaburras and sea eagles.
The surrounding area retains remnants of the convict-built Great North Road, originally constructed to link Sydney with the Hunter Valley and now part of UNESCO’s Australian Convict Sites World Heritage listing. As well as walks, consider booking a boat tour or hiring a kayak to get out on the river. Even better, if you have the time: do as Sydney locals do and…
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