The luckiest part of being able to regularly visit Sydney’s #beaches in #summer is the lush bushland that surrounds the coast. In fact, when the UV index gets a little too high around midday, it's normal for Aussies to wander back inland to seek shade under towering eucalyptus trees and other native flora. One of the most beautiful #beach #hikes even takes place right here in Sydney - the Chowder Bay to Balmoral Walk. This serene #trail will take you from Clifton Gardens all the way over to Balmoral Beach in around half an hour with a glistening #view of Sydney Harbour at your side.
Image credit: author
Clifton Gardens is a beachy neighbourhood in Sydney’s northern suburbs - right next to the infamous Taronga Zoo. Encompassing the quaint inlet of Chowder Bay, the beach becomes a staple for locals and visitors alike due to the calm #surf, rock pools and surrounding parkland. However, it also marks the starting point for our #beach #walk. The further you go in the #hike, the better your view of Chowder Bay will be from above so be sure to capture some remarkable pictures along the way. Force yourself up the initial stone steps and spiralling bush #trails to Georges Heights Lookout, for some epic #views of the Sydney Harbour Heads encompassing the harbour below. You will also notice colonial artillery structures from the old military forts used to defend Sydney Harbour dating back to 1870.
Image credit: author
After strolling through the lookout, you will begin to descend down a walkway through dense bushland to reach #Balmoral. Despite being in Sydney, you will feel like you have been dumped into the wilderness. Bush Turkeys tend to scuttle through the foliage frequently however if you’re lucky you may catch sight of a Kookaburra or Lorikeets. Eventually, you will find yourself emerging from the bush and in the lively main strip of #Balmoral.
Image credit: Gilberto Olimpio (Unsplash)
If you’re looking for a #beach with endless variety, look no further than #Balmoral. Featuring multiple strips of sand along the cobbled promenade, there is much to explore in a day here. For the more #adventurous beachgoer, stand-up #paddle boards and #scuba gear can be rented from The Boatshed to experience the abundance of marine life right on the beach. In terms of #food, the luxurious Bathers Pavillion will provide you with the beachside #dining experience of your dreams however if you want to keep it more casual and enjoy your snacks on the sand, there are multiple fish and chip shops scattered throughout #Balmoral such as Bottom of the Harbour.
Comments