Heading for some winter sun in Sydney? Great idea. Here's how to do it, thanks to our resident expert, Katherine. It's an outdoor lifestyle, so pack your flippers and your factor 50, ready to work up an appetite for all the food-fun that comes afterwards.
Nestled in Surry Hills, this is “a hotel that also feels like a guest house, which in turn feels like someone’s home.” Ideal. It’s walking distance to everything (Central Station, a local absinthe bar, a tiny arthouse cinema, classic Aussie pubs, theatres, ramen noodle-houses, snazzy restaurants…). It’s a bit tricky to find it initially, as the entrance is tucked down a side alley, but this is typical of Sydney: you have to work to find the best places.
Go to The Butler in Potts Point for awesome views over the city and delicious modern Australian cuisine. Balcon by Tapavino is a great Spanish restaurant in the heart of the city with a lovely peaceful terrace - perfect for a quick refresh while exploring.
Brunch is a serious undertaking in Australia, so factor one in. Try the Boathouse at Balmoral or Rusty Rabbit in Darlinghurst. But you can’t go too far wrong anywhere!
The Opera House Bar is touristy, but it's a must for a sundowner (although the seagulls are PESTS!). Or if you want something away from the crowds, The Argyll rooftop terrace is away from the crowds and has a great view over the Opera House.
If visiting in winter, seek out one of the hidden bars such as Rambling Rascals, The Rook, Shady Pines and Door Knock - good luck finding them!
Have a dip at Icebergs Swimming Pool, the BEST ocean pool in the world. Then a cheeky aperol on the terrace afterwards is a winner.
If you still have energy to burn, walk from Bondi to Coogee. It's a busy trail, but has beautiful scenery of the eastern suburbs coast line. Stop off at Clovelly on the way for some awesome snorkelling or lawn bowls (a staple of Aussie culture!). Finish at Coogee Pavillion (know locally as Coogee Pav) where you can eat and drink on multiple floors. It's also great for a late night if that's what you're after.
Another day, Kayak out to Shark Island from Rose Bay for an awesome view back over the city, or wander the Botanical Gardens followed by a swim at the Andrew Boy Charlton pool.
