The Iglu Guide | Blog
7 Amazing walks in Sydney
When you’re feeling under the pump, there’s nothing like a stroll in the fresh air to clear the cobwebs away, focus your mind and get you back on task. From coastal tracks and ancient bushland to spectacular views and stunning scenery, there’s nowhere quite like Sydney to get your walking fix. And as well as being healthy for your mind, walking is one of the easiest activities to try out – and it has a bucket load of side benefits. You can do it alone or with friends, it’s easy on your body and it’s a great way to discover a new city that won’t cost a penny. Simply grab your bag and boots, take your pick from this list, and the beautiful Aussie outdoors is all there for you to enjoy!
1. Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
This iconic Sydney coastal walk is an absolute must for any Sydney resident to experience at least once. Extending 6km along the magnificent coast from Coogee through to Bondi, this walk features some of the greatest views imaginable, along with cafés, reserves and parks that intersperse the track. Starting out at the expansive Coogee Beach, the paved trail guides you past the popular swim spots of Clovelly, Tamarama Beach and Bronte Beach, while also rewarding you with incredible cliff-top views. And the very real possibility of spotting passing whales or frolicking dolphins. You’ll finish up at the one and only Bondi Beach, passing the Insta-famous swim club that is Icebergs. After taking the opportunity to have a dip and catch a wave, you can either turn around and head back for the return leg, or catch a bus to your destination of choice. With so many beautiful distractions along the way, the walk can be completed in 1.5 hours, or it can take the whole day. Either way, your mind and body will feel all the amazing benefits.
Distance: 6km/each way
Difficulty rating: Easy to moderate
Top tip: Pack your swimmers and don’t forget the sunscreen!
2. Manly to Spit Walkway
Start at either end of this beautiful harbour trail and explore subtropical bushland and coastal pathways as well as beaches, bays and secret swim spots. Within just a few minutes of setting out, you’ll feel completely at one with nature and enjoy a pervading sense of inner calm. Inhale the fantastic harbour views and beachfront housing that lines the route and look out across the water to Watson’s Bay and South Head before spotting Manly in the distance. Take some time to reflect at the indigenous sites and aboriginal carvings that you’ll find along the way. They’re a timely reminder of the importance of preserving Sydney’s rich aboriginal heritage. As there are some steps and undulating passages, it’s a good idea to wear trainers or protective footwear. And watch out for the locals, the Eastern Water Dragons, brush turkeys and Little Penguins are regulars along the route! The Manly walkway is well connected for public transport at either end, with a few options along the way for refreshments.
Distance: 10km/each way
Difficulty rating: Easy to moderate
Top tip: Start at the Spit and finish up in Manly for food, before hopping on a ferry back to the city
3. Barangaroo to Woolloomooloo
Experience some of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks as you skirt the city coastline and take in those world-famous waterfront views. Start your walk at the newly finished Barangaroo parkland, and pass by the piers of Walsh Bay before ducking under the majestic Sydney Harbour Bridge. Head towards the Rocks and the magical Sydney Opera House and take a moment to simply stop and breathe. Enter the Royal Botanical Gardens and soak up the serenity and calm as you watch the world go and explore the diverse range of flora and fauna. If you’re feeling stressed, this is the ideal environment to let it all wash away. Finally, take a meander along the winding pathways and head towards Woolloomooloo Wharf and the abundance of refreshments that await to reward all your efforts.
Distance: 9.5km one way
Difficulty rating: Easy
Top tip: Plan some time to spend browsing the Rocks’ weekend markets
4. The Bay Run
This pretty 7km circuit is a highly popular route for those living in and around Sydney’s Inner West. Mainly flat, and with designated lanes for walkers and cyclists alike, it also makes an excellent accessible exercise destination for wheelchair-users and prams. On any given day, you might come across rollerbladers, family groups, runners and more, all taking advantage of the playground and picnic areas that populate the riverside route. Nestled along the foreshore of Iron Cove Bay, Sisters Bay and Half Moon Bay, you’ll experience uninterrupted water views all the way around, a genuine tonic for body and mind.
Distance: 7km circuit
Difficulty rating: Easy
Top tip: Public transport options makes Victoria Road a great starting point
5. Taronga Zoo to Balmoral Beach
If you enjoy epic harbour views, exploring the bush and expansive beaches, this is one Sydney walk not to miss. Jump on the ferry at Circular Quay and alight at Taronga Zoo, possibly one of the most stunningly located zoos in the world. Look to your right for the pathway that heads into the bushland, and here your adventure begins. Keep an eye out for bandicoots and indigenous wildlife amongst the lush greenery as you follow the signs and pass around Bradley’s Head towards Chowder Bay. Don’t be put off by the steps leading up to Georges Head, the breathtaking views will be more than worth it. And when you head down the wooden staircase to arrive at the beautiful Balmoral Beach, there’s a fish and chips supper with your name on it.
Distance: 6-7km/each way
Difficulty rating: Easy
Top tip: Take a short diversion to Athol Bay for uninterrupted harbour views – the best secret beach in Sydney!
6. Glebe Foreshore Walk
If you’re looking for something short and sweet to clear your thoughts and calm your mind, the Glebe Foreshore Walk will not disappoint. Perfect for all fitness abilities, this pretty 5km return walk tracks the shores of Rozelle Bay and Blackwattle Bay, passing through several parks and reserves along the way. Take a pause to admire the panoramic views of the Anzac Bridge, Glebe Island Bridge and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. There’s nothing quite like this anywhere else in the world!
Distance: 5km return
Difficulty rating: Easy
Top tip: Finish up at the Sydney Fish Market and refuel for the return leg!
7. Rail to River
Leave the urban environs of Chatswood behind and step into the rainforest instead. The Rail to River walk spans some 3.5km from Chatswood Railway station down to Lane Cove River where you’ll find flowing streams, chirping birds and dense foliage with all the peace and calm that comes with nature. Escape the study pressure and recalibrate your thoughts as you traverse along the fern-lined gullies and creeks. Even better, it’s perfectly located for all students living at Iglu Chatswood!
Distance: 7.5km circuit
Difficulty rating: Moderate
Top tip: The track can be rough with some steps, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes
