Nature

Sydney and its surroundings offer a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor experiences. Here’s a guide to some of the best nature spots:

Sydney City and Surrounds

• The Bible Garden in Palm Beach (https://palmbeachbiblegarden.org/)
  • Beautifully hidden spot facing the main beach from the south
• Manns Point Lookout in Greenwich (https://www.adventureclues.com/city-secrets/manns-point-sydney/)
  • Located at the southernmost tip of the Greenwich peninsula, facing Sydney Harbour and the Parramatta River
  • Enjoy fantastic views of the city skyline and the various headlands and [islands in the Harbour]
  • Great for picnics!
• Wendy’s Secret Garden in Lavender Bay (https://www.wendyssecretgarden.org.au/)
• Paddington Reservoir Gardens (https://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/parks/paddington-reservoir-gardens)
  • State heritage-listed site that looks as if it belongs in Rome
• Fred Hollows Reserve in Randwick (http://www.randwick.nsw.gov.au/facilities-and-recreation/parks/parks-by-suburb/randwick/fred-hollows-reserve)
  • Unique 2-hectares natural park area covering Glebe Gully
• Badu Mangroves in Sydney Olympic Park (https://www.sydneyolympicpark.com.au/parks-and-playgrounds/badu-mangrove-boardwalk)
• Lake Parramatta (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Parramatta)
• Picnic at Lady Macquarie’s Chair (https://www.botanicgardens.org.au/)

Hiking and Walking Trails

• Berowra Waters Walk: Train to Berowra, walk through the bush to Berowra Waters
  • Take the free ferry to the fish and chips shop
  • Option to hire boats at the marina
• Mount Ku-ring-gai to Berowra via the Place of the Winds and Naa Badu lookout
• Hermitage Foreshore walking track (https://sydneyuncovered.com/hermitage-foreshore-walk/)

Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains is a World Heritage-listed area known for its stunning scenery and diverse ecosystem.

• Three Sisters: Iconic rock formation and Aboriginal dreamtime legend
• Scenic World: Features the world’s steepest railway and scenic cableway
• Wentworth Falls: Magnificent waterfall and hiking trails
• Seven Waterfalls Walk (https://blog.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/seven-waterfalls-one-epic-walk/)
• Jenolan Caves (https://www.jenolancaves.org.au/): Ancient limestone cave system
• Blue Mountains Botanic Garden: Beautiful cool-climate garden

Hunter Valley

While primarily known for its wineries, the Hunter Valley also offers beautiful natural landscapes:

• Hunter Valley Gardens: 60 acres of spectacular international display gardens
• Barrington Tops National Park: Part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area
• Werakata National Park: Home to diverse wildlife and beautiful wildflowers in spring

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

• West Head lookout (https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/lookouts/west-head-lookout)

Wildlife Experiences

• Featherdale Wildlife Park (https://www.featherdale.com.au/)
• Australian Reptile Park (https://www.reptilepark.com.au/)

Beaches

• Queens Beach in Vaucluse
  • Small beach along the Hermitage Foreshore walking track
• Milk Beach
  • A little further north from Queens Beach, with more space for sunbathing

Island Exploration

• Take a ferry to Cockatoo Island for the day

Many of these locations are perfect for weekend outings and offer unique Experiences. Check the What’s On page for seasonal events or guided tours in these natural areas.

Related: Animals, Outings, Experiences, What’s On, Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley