Top 10 must do Sydney (Bush) – Breeze Bites

Oooh la la the city is lovely, but what is beyond the Sydney Opera House or Darling Harbour. This week we take a look at everything “walkabout” style and see what the bush has to offer.

 Breeze Bites Ratings:

Rating - 10/10

Go off the beaten track and experience some of the most breath taking scenery that Sydney’s rainforests, rugged bush and marine reserves has to offer. These places are tracks less trodden (less touristy parts of Sydney) with quality foot time and quality air away from all the crowds – and how do you experience these bush experiences? Why on foot of course.

Let’s go!

1. Blue Mountains – Firstly why are they called the Blue Mountains? Because from Sydney they look blue. This is down to the eucalypts tree (gum tree) which in the hot sun can discharge a find mist of eucalyptus oil from their leaves and when the mist refracts light, it makes the haze look blue from a distance. Hmmm did you need to know that, maybe not?  Do you need to visit? Defiantly! Wildlife, quiet forest retreats, freshwater lakes and streams. You can stay, walk, camp, picnic and only 90 minutes from the Sydney CBD.

2. Katoomba - The most visited town in the Blue Mountains with the Scenic Railway its most popular attraction. The ride takes you down the steep descent past Orphan Rock, through a tunnel and the beautiful fern-damp cliff face. Also there are the cable cars that take you on a 545m ride into the Greater Blue Mountains and the Skyway which has a glass bottom floor and takes you across the Jamison Valley at a height of 200m (must, must do).

3. Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park – It’s where river meets sea. It’s a tight cluster of secretive, winding creeks, stunning sheltered beaches, hidden coves and dense forest. Prefect for walkers, boaters, swimmers and picnickers all out to escape the city.

4. Lane Cove National Park – If you don’t like to venture too far from the CBD then Lane Cove is just for you and only 20 minutes from the city.  The Lane Cover River winds through the peaceful bushland and is the main focus for most of the activities. You can go bushwalking, hire a row boat, dozens of picturesque picnic spots and you can even stay the night in designated camp spots and cabins.

5. Royal National Park – Now you might say you’ve been to one national park, you’ve been to them all – not the case here. The park is situated on 15,080 hectares of bush and coast where you can experience magnificent views and a variety of habits including rainforests, open woodland and the beach. You can surf, swim, canoe, fish, bush walk and camping.

6. Sydney Harbour National Park – Yes there are lots of national parks and every one worth a visit if you're a local or staying for some time. Sydney Harbour National Park protects a number of islands and foreshore areas around the world's most famous harbour.  The park is home to superb swimming spots, bushwalking tracks and picnic areas, which offer a huge range of activities. There are so many places to walk, swim, tour and sightsee you’ll be overwhelmed by the options.

7. Hunter Valley - With over 150 wineries, beautiful produce and gourmet trails, the Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s most sophisticated food and wine regions. Its 150km from Sydney. Best way to get there is by car taking a couple of hours. You can also take the train or join a tour.

8. Hawkesbury Nepean – Located on the banks of the Hawkesbury and Nepean rivers. Best known for their chardonnay and shiraz. 50km from South West Sydney.

9. Southern Highlands – This district thrives on delicate, fresh white wines and pinot noir. Two hours drive (100km) from Sydney.

10. Darkes Forest Riding Ranch - Experience the beauty of the native bush land from a saddle and without having to travel too far from home. Just over an hour from South Sydney. It’s a great place to have riding lessons or enjoy a trail ride.