Natural Sydney: Guest Post By Alex Johnson

The More Natural Side of Australia's Largest City

This week's post is a guest post written by Aussie blogger Alex Johnson. Keep reading to discover some of his tips for visiting Sydney's natural beauties and often missed hidden corners.

Blue Mountains

Source: Flickr

​The Blue Mountains are located just a short train ride or drive outside of Sydney. The mountains stretch as far as the eye can see and are famous throughout the whole country. They get their name from the blue haze that rise from the oils of the eucalyptus trees.
 
Once you’ve arrived in the Blue Mountains region, head over to the 3 Sisters to get a spectacular view of the valley and the 3 iconic rock formations that attract people from all around the world.
 
If you don’t like the crowds, there are hundreds of bush walks available around the national park. Be sure to take a map and let someone know you’re heading out, as the bush is dense and stretches for miles and miles. 

Royal National Park

Source: Flickr

​The Royal National Park is another famous national park located in New South Wales. This national park is one of the oldest national parks in the world, coming just behind Yellowstone. Here you can find beautiful beaches and bush walks that the whole family can enjoy.
 
There are many options for camping and picnic areas, if you’re looking for a relaxing day trip. If you visit the park in the right season, it’s a great location to see migrating whales off the coast.
 
The Royal National Park has everything from Kayaking to bird watching. It’s definitely worth a visit. 

North Head, Manly

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 ​Some of Sydney’s most idyllic views can be found on the North Head to Manly walk, so pack up your camera and get ready to be impressed.
 
You can choose to start this walk from either North Head or Manly. If you’re starting from Manly, begin at Queenscliff on Manly Beach's northern end and walk toward Shelley Beach, a calm inlet that’s as beautiful as it is quaint. If you decide to start from North Head, begin at the sanctuary and don’t forget to take in the cliff top views before you leave.
 
You’ll discover beauty with every step on this stunning coastal walk, but there are a few things that make this route extra special. You’ll pass through Sydney Harbour National Park, which offers sweeping bushland and plenty Australian wildlife. Find three lookouts on top of North Head, each with an impressive view of both the water and city, and don’t forget to keep an eye out for whales passing through.
Clocking in at about 10 kilometres, this coastal walk will take around 2 hours, but I’d recommend taking your time. Sweeping sand beaches and endless ocean views provide stunning photo backdrops, and North Head offers plenty of space for stretching out in the sun.

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

Source: Flickr

​Sydney’s Bondi to Coogee coastal walk is a favourite for both locals and tourists, and there’s no guessing why. With seaside vistas and impressive rock pools, you’ll want to soak up every second spent on this cliff top trek.
The Bondi to Coogee walk is beautiful at any time of day, but it can get crowded during peak hours. If you want to enjoy a bit of solitude as you take in the panoramic views, then set your alarm and hit the trail before breakfast.
Nestled among the eastern suburbs, the Bondi to Coogee walk finishes just metres away from quaint cafes and restaurants. Start the walk at sunrise and finish with a well-deserved coffee near Coogee Bay.
The best part of the Bondi to Coogee trek is the cliff top view. Because you’re hovering just above the water, the path tends to get windy even on seemingly calm days. Bring along your jumper to stay cosy and comfortable as you take in the sights. 

Botany Bay

​Settled in the Sydney suburb of La Perouse, Botany Bay offers golden beaches, historical bushland and pup-friendly parks.
Frenchman’s Bay brings you a beautiful beach with cool and calm waters. Because of its westerly orientation, currents are mild and waves are small, so even small children can enjoy a splash in the ocean.
There’s so much history to discover in the Kamay Botany Bay National Park. As Captain Cook’s landing place in 1770, you’ll discover a plaque marking his arrival as well the dune where Cook’s ship was first sighted. Head to the Kurnell Visitor Centre to learn the story of indigenous Australians and their first meeting with the arriving Europeans.
For families with a furry friend in tow, a stop at Astrolabe Park is a Botany Bay must-do. With an off-leash area and plenty of space, the whole family can enjoy some fresh air this weekend. 




For more of Alex's writing, visit his blog www.inspireabetterlife.com or his Instagram @johnsoninspires. Thanks for the great tips Alex!