Have you ever arrived at a destination and found yourself craving something different? Perhaps escaping the chaos of an urban city, savouring the feel of sand between your toes or the longing for a specific dish?
If you find yourself in Sydney, this urban paradise will captivate even the fussiest of visitors. Sydney is located on a pristine harbour on the East Coast of Australia, boasting sun-drenched beaches, mouth watering cuisine and intriguing cultural insights.
HISTORY | Nestled on the base of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, explore the winding streets of “The Rocks”, where Captain Arthur Phillip first settled in Australia two centuries ago. Within this area you can enjoy trendy cafés and discover Sydney’s oldest dwelling, Cadman’s Cottage.
NATIVE FLORA & FAUNA | What makes Australian cities unique is the abundance of public areas to escape the hustle and bustle. To observe various Australian plant and bird species, including a picturesque view of Sydney’s major monuments, enjoy a tranquil walk through Sydney’s Botanical Gardens.
HIKE / WHALE WATCHING | From Darling Harbour catch a short ferry-ride to Watson’s Bay. From here you can take a small stroll to Camp Cove and enjoy the view of where the Governor Phillip first landed in Port Jackson. Continuing along the South Head Heritage Trail, indulge in a scenic view of Sydney Harbour and Hornby Lighthouse. A picnic overlooking the bay, while watching for whales, is perfect from late May to early August.
BEACHES | What makes Sydney stand out from the other Australian cities is the untamed coastline in comparison to that of its neighbours; it is for this reason that Bondi Beach is worth the visit. The city’s coast is built on rocky cliffs scattered with a palette of unique shades. In the centre, a small bay known as Bondi Beach allows bathers and surfers to enjoy the turquoise waters and sticky ice-creams!
SHOPPING | Australia is home to some amazing, international fashion designer brands including Sass & Bide, Zimmermann and Maurie & Eve, all of which have stores in Sydney. To discover new up-coming designers, crafted homewares or to lose yourself amongst 1,000 stalls, the Paddington Markets is where Zimmermann first launched their label and worth a visit.
FOOD & DRINK | Chapter E (201 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst). Chapter E is an adorable café located in Darlinghurst that makes the promise of a nourishing meal, offering a variety of salads, freshly squeezed juice and artisan coffee. I was surprised by the freshness of our falafels and the abundance of flavours!” This is our ‘must-stop’ café when we are in Sydney.
TapaVino (6 Bulletin Pl, Sydney). A small stroll from Darling Harbour, TapaVino spills out from the restaurant and into a dark alleyway where the warm atmosphere lures you inside. After our holiday in Spain we have searched for a tapas bar that evokes an authentic Spanish experience paired with exceptional food and traditional wine; who would have thought one of our most memorable Spanish bars would be right here in Australia!
ATavola (348 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst). In the back serving room of ATavola, an intimate room dressed gorgeously in soft light welcomes you. The waiter, Italian, evokes a somewhat authentic experience, while spoiling you with an immaculate balance of flavours and elegant presentation. I suggest the Beef and Beetroot Carpaccio, it is the best I have tried.
