On travel guides, Sydney’s biggest claim to fame may be the iconic Sydney Opera House or the jaw-dropping Harbour Bridge. But set these architectural marvels aside, and you’ll be surprised to find out that this well-loved city in the Land Down Under offers seemingly countless green escapes, wildlife encounters, and scenic walks that will excite any nature lover.
From cliff-top walks that leave you breathless to serene gardens tucked away from the bustle, here are our favorite spots in Sydney for close-to-nature experiences:
Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
Sitting on the edge of Sydney Harbour, right beside the Opera House, the Royal Botanic Garden is the city’s ultimate green sanctuary. Established in 1816, it’s considered one of the oldest botanical institutions in the Southern Hemisphere and also one of the most stunningly located.
Highlights:
- Wander through themed sections like the Palm Grove, Rose Garden, and Australian Rainforest Garden.
- Visit Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, a sandstone bench carved in 1810, which provides one of the best vantage points for the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
- Seasonal events like Vivid Sydney installations and outdoor cinema screenings add extra charm.
Big Sky Tip:
The garden is free to enter and open every day. Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the space before the crowds roll in. Picnics are allowed, so bring a mat and some snacks!
Taronga Zoo Sydney
Photo by Nico Smit on Unsplash
A zoo reachable by a 12-minute ferry ride from the CBD, Taronga Zoo Sydney is among the most popular zoos in the country. It is home to over 5,000 animals across more than 350 species—many of which are endangered. Here, you can spot koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and other furry creatures native to Australia.
Highlights:
- Get a rush of adrenaline at Wild Ropes Treetops Adventure, which features a variety of rope courses on the canopy of the zoo.
- Book the Roar and Snore overnight experience, where you sleep in safari-style tents overlooking the Sydney harbour.
- Purchase a ticket for Animal Encounters to see animals like koalas, giraffes, dingos, and penguins up close.
Big Sky Tip:
Catch the ferry from Circular Quay because the ride itself is part of the adventure!
Centennial Parklands
Nicknamed Sydney’s “green lungs,” Centennial Parklands is a vast urban oasis just minutes from the CBD that offers a refreshing retreat from the ever-busy city. Covering over 189 hectares, the parklands encompass Centennial Park, Moore Park, and Queens Park—together forming one of the most significant and historic public green spaces in Australia.
Highlights:
- Picturesque lawns, gardens, and ponds perfect for a lazy day.
- Cycle tracks, horse-riding trails, and wide-open spaces ideal for jogging or yoga.
- Birding fans will be thrilled to know that more than 120 species call the the Centennial Parklands home.
Big Sky Tip:
Rent a bike to explore the park at a leisurely pace. Families will love the playgrounds and barbecue areas. There are six free-access electric grills available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Blue Mountains National Park
Just a 90-minute train ride or drive from the city center, the Blue Mountains is arguably Sydney’s most popular nature escape. Named after the blue haze created by eucalyptus oil in the air, this UNESCO World Heritage–listed region is a breathtaking landscape of dramatic sandstone cliffs, deep valleys, waterfalls, and ancient forests. It’s the perfect day trip for travelers wanting a taste of Australia’s rugged natural beauty without traveling too far.
Highlights:
- Head to Katoomba Area, which is the heart of Blue Mountains National Park. It’s where you will find the spectacular Three Sisters rock formation as well as the Grand Cliff Top Walk.
- Take Scenic World’s Cableway, the steepest aerial cable car in the Southern Hemisphere, for glorious views of the Jamison Valley.
- Explore countless bushwalking trails, from easy strolls to challenging hikes — popular options include the Prince Henry Cliff Walk and Wentworth Falls track.
Big Sky Tip:
Take the early morning train from Central Station to Katoomba to maximize your time, or join a guided day tour if you prefer a hassle-free experience. Bring layers — the mountains can be significantly cooler than Sydney, even in summer.
Wollemi National Park
Located just beyond the Blue Mountains, Wollemi National Park is a vast wilderness area that offers a more off-the-beaten-path adventure. It’s the second-largest national park in New South Wales and part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. Known for its rugged gorges, sandstone cliffs, and ancient forests, it’s also where you will find the rare Wollemi Pine, a “living fossil” and critically endangered species thought to have been extinct for millions of years until its discovery in 1994.
Highlights
- Walk through the Glow Worm Tunnel, a former railway tunnel now illuminated by thousands of tiny bioluminescent larvae — a truly magical sight at night or in darkness.
- Hike through dramatic canyons and hidden valleys, where you’ll encounter untouched bushland and incredible rock formations.
- Spot native wildlife such as lyrebirds, wallabies, and wedge-tailed eagles in their natural habitat.
Big Sky Tip
Access to the Glow Worm Tunnel is easiest via Lithgow (about 2.5 hours from Sydney). Bring a dim electronic torch and avoid shining it directly on the glow worms to preserve their habitat.
Coogee to Bondi Coastal Walk
This 6 km stretch is a favourite among locals who use it as their daily exercise route. It is also perfect for visitors who want to soak up Sydney’s coastal charm at their own pace. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop for a swim, grab a cup of coffee, or simply sit and admire the endless Pacific horizon.
Highlights
- Stunning beaches along the way include: Coogee, Closely, Bronte, Tamarama, and Bondi.
- Rocky cliffs, hidden rock pools, and ocean baths perfect for a refreshing dip.
- Take a breather while taking in vistas from the hauntingly beautiful Waverly Cemetery.
Big Sky Tip
Slather a good layer of SPF on, wear good walking shoes, bring plenty of water, and don’t forget your swimsuit! The walk is best done early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the scorching midday sun.
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