Sydney has no shortage of beautiful walking routes, but if you’ve worked your way through the best trails in the city and exhausted the magical secret tracks that line the coast, we’ve got good news. Last week, a fresh new walking track opened up on the banks of Sydney Harbour: a stunning 3-kilometre trail showcasing the area’s historic military buildings and next-level views across Sydney Harbour.
Starting at Middle Head–Gubbuh Gubbuh, the trail traces the coast for three kilometres to Georges Head, leading hikers past some of Sydney’s most incredible historic military relics and creating a missing link along the banks of the harbour. Built over six years, the $9.5-million trail is an extension of the Bondi to Manly walk, connecting to Chowder Bay and makes an excellent addition to the already beautiful Bradley’s Head to Chowder Bay walking route.
And while the views from this clifftop trail would be reason enough to add to your weekend hit list, it’s the military significance of this walk that sets it apart from the city’s other coastal trails. Winding along the coast between headlands, the trail takes in an impressive series of former military structures, including a network of restored World War II twin 6-pounder gun casemates and military forts which were carved around the headland to protect Sydney from attacks.
The track also includes several new lookout points, and a new bridge with crazy-good views across Sydney’s foreshore and inner harbour. Visitors can also see the re-furbished 19th century former NSW School of Artillery buildings (restored to how they would have been 150 years ago) and a former engine room which was repurposed for the sinister purpose of capturing and interrogating enemy forces during the Malayan Emergency and later Vietnam War.
Chad Weston, manager of the Sydney North Area NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, explained how the project will give new, safe access to some of Sydney’s most significant historic fortifications, connecting historic icons that have never before been easily accessible to the public.
Keen? The walking track is now open – you’ll find more details on the historic forts and access to the track here.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.