Description
Walk Sydney’s iconic sights, coastal trail delights and big city lights
5 DAYS | 4 NIGHTS
Find Yourself | Be Yourself | Challenge Yourself
Overview
Women’s Bondi to Manly Highlights Walk
Sydney, New South Wales
Join Big Heart Adventures for a Big City Adventure during the Easter Long Weekend, on the lands and waters of the Gadigal People.
Commencing with a Welcome to Country and cultural experience from Aboriginal Elders of the Eora Nation, we then guide you along the best sections of a walking trail that winds its way between Sydney’s two most famous surf beaches; Bondi in the South and Manly in the North. This is Sydney like you’ve never seen it.
Walking footloose and pack-free around the unmissable headlands, we take in big-ticket views of the Famous Bridge, Opera House, and Botanic Gardens. Despite being in the centre of a metropolis, with some of the hottest real estate and watercrafts strutting their stuff, we walk through classic vignettes of azure waters, scribbly gums, and sandstone cliffs dripping in ferns.
Staying in gorgeous seaside Coogee Beach, allows us time to explore sections of the Bondi to Manly walk and nearby coastal trails, plus opportunities to swim at iconic Sydney beaches or visit some of the public baths that dot the coastline.
Shorter walking distances are on offer each day, and walks are professionally led by our qualified female leaders with Sydney experience.
Itinerary
Day 1 | Arrive Sydney – Welcome To Country
Your Sydney adventure commences this afternoon by the beach – arrive anytime and meet at our hotel in Coogee Beach at 3pm after checking in. We recommend arriving in the morning, drop off your bags and explore. You might like to head to the beach, Wylies Baths or even go for a snorkel at Gordons Bay Underwater Nature Trail.
This evening, we will be Welcomed To Country by local Aboriginal elders, sharing stories and learning about the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. Afterwards, returning to Coogee for a welcome dinner at a local eatery.
Meals Included: Dinner
Walking Distance: 2km
Day 2 | Watsons Bay to Bondi Beach or Coogee Beach
After breakfast, we transfer to Watsons Bay to start a section of the Bondi to Manly Walk but in reverse, allowing for a swim upon completion at the incredibly popular Bondi Beach. Todays walk will visit Cape Hornby, The Gap, Macquarie Lighthouse, Diamond Bay and more as we wander through affluent coastal suburbs, urban parks, reserves and along footpaths. Our packed lunch will enjoyed picnic style along the way.
The afternoon allows for some free time at Bondi, before an optional 6km scenic coastal walk back to Coogee (taxi/uber optional extra).
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Walking Distance: 13km + optional 6km to Coogee Beach
Day 3 | Circular Quay to Rose Bay or Watsons Bay
Today’s walk is a varied combination of waterfront walking, passing Mrs Macquarie’ Seat, the stunning greenery of the Botanic Gardens and the Naval Yards. There are staircases connecting elevated blocks between houses on tree lined streets, alleys and parkways through prestigious suburbs and schools, passing the Cruising Yacht Club before our lunch stop at Rose Bay.
From here you can grab a ride back to the hotel (at own expense) or walk a further 7km to Watsons Bay and Lady Bay for a swim. This section of trail has stunning views of Sydney Harbor Bridge, waterfront and suburban walking. Including a wonderful Hermitage Walk past Strickland Estate with its rolling green lawns and through Nielsen Park with incredible gnarly red gums.
We enjoy some recovery time at one of Watsons Bay cafes before being transferred from here back to our accommodation in the afternoon.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Walking Distance: 13km + optional 7km to Watsons Bay
Day 4 | The Spit to Manly
Our final big day of walking starts from The Spit Reserve before crossing the main road bridge connecting Mosman to Balgowlah.
Making our way through Clontarf Reserve on bush trails aligned with shady trees along the waterfront. The trail is not flat nor steep but somewhere in between, passing redgums, a grotto, and rock carvings created by people of the Eora Nation.
We stop for morning tea at North Harbor Reserve before continuing mostly along waterfront trail. There is a tidal section where we may get wet feet! Passing gorgeous coves and swimming beaches we reach Manly by lunchtime.
Plenty of places to choose for lunch, maybe a swim or if you’re feeling like a challenge an extra loop walk around North Head. We return by ferry and journey back to Coogee for our final night in Sydney celebrated with a farewell dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Walking Distance: 11km + optional 11km to North Head
Day 5 | Swims and Farewells
Our tour concludes after breakfast. This morning is free time and farewells for those heading home.
If you are staying on for our Blue Mountains Odyssey we have some suggested local activities to consider before we meet again tomorrow.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Walking Distance:
Need To Know
Inclusions
Travel
- Trail transfers, to and from walk start and finish points
Meals
- All meals as per the itinerary
- 2 course dinners
- B x 4 | L x 1 | D x 2
Accommodation
- 4 nights twin share studio rooms at 4 STAR Adina Coogee Beach
(single rooms available supplement applies)
Activities
- Professionally guided walks along selected areas between Coogee and Manly
- Nature connection activities on trail
- Welcome to Country with Aboriginal Elders of the Eora Nation
Safety
- Group First Aid kit and emergency communication device
- Leaders certified in Remote Area/Wilderness First Aid
- Qualified Bushwalking Leaders
Environmental
- Small group guided experience
- Leave No Trace principles
- Invitations to connect with nature
- Reduce waste through recycling, reusing and composting
Big Heart Extras
- Big Heart Adventures designed ioMerino hiking top
- Big Heart Adventures designed head sock
- Big Heart Adventures journal
- Discounts for pre-departure purchases at Exurbia
- A charity contribution to our Give Back program
- Access and assistance from our Travel Agency with organising flight bookings and/or to extend your stay
Exclusions
- Travel Insurance
- Flights to and from Sydney
- Airport transfers
- Public transport/taxi fares/Uber rides
- Drinks
- Meals not stated on itinerary
(option to self cater at accommodation) - Optional activities suggested in itinerary
(public baths, hire of snorkel gear, beach equipment etc.) - Items of a personal nature
Trail Notes
We grade the overall walking on this itinerary as EASY-MODERATE
(see our grading system)
This grading is provided as general advice only, and is based on our assessment and also feedback from past participants. Please consider your level of fitness and experience in regard to this rating, and if you’re unsure please contact us for more information
Watsons Bay to Coogee Beach
Distance: 19km
Elevation Gain: 500m
Elevation Loss: 500m
Circular Quay to Watsons Bay
Distance: 20km
Elevation Gain: 300m
Elevation Loss: 325m
The Spit to Manly
Distance: 11km
Elevation Gain: 200
Elevation Loss: 200
+ Optional North Head Loop
Extra Distance: 11km
Extra Elevation Gain: 250m
Extra Elevation Loss: 250m
Why choose us
10 REASONS TO WALK WITH US
Realistic Itineraries
we want you to love and be inspired by the Bondi to Manly Walk. This tour itinerary is well-designed and realistic, allowing you to complete the full itinerary ….. we don’t over sell and under deliver
Be Fulfilled
this itinerary is designed to maximise your awe and leave you fulfilled. Respectfully, you’re Welcomed to Country by Elders of the Eora Nation after arriving at Coogee Beach, then you walk the best sections of the Bondi to Manly walking trail. We’ve planned this 5 day itinerary so you get a full experience and time to relax ….. you won’t leave feeling unfulfilled
Nature Connection
we want you to feel de-stressed and re-energised. So, our guides are also nature facilitators with skills to immerse you with your surrounds. Not only do we safely guide you and share our knowledge, we also provide invitations for you to slow down and connect deeper with nature whilst walking the trail (included activities such as an introduction to Shinrin-yoku ‘Forest Bathing’ ) <learn more about Forest Bathing here> ….. we’re pioneers of hiking with deep nature immersion
Group Fitness
we want you to succeed and maximise your enjoyment, so group chats online are provided leading up to your walking tour (included as part of the tour price). These will assist you to meet your guides and other group members, ask questions on what to expect, receive advice on the trail, travel, and the destination, and gauge your level of fitness ….. we invest in your preparation
Meaningful Moments
we will bring your Bondi to Manly experience alive ….. a guide book and phone App can’t do this as well as our local guides
Flexibility (2 guides)
our departures have 2 experienced guides. Having 2 guides means we can better cater for group dynamics and individual needs. Factors such as sickness, injuries and incidents can mean changes to the itinerary become necessary, and if there was only 1 guide then these changes will impact on your expectations and your level of enjoyment ….. avoiding this is why we always have 2 guides
Safety
our wilderness trained guides carry comprehensive group first-aid kits, satellite communication devices, and safety equipment. Our Adelaide based guide supports a local guide on this tour. In addition, safety procedures are in place, and constant communication is undertaken with local emergency services ….. for your safety, we always have multiple communication devices
Timing
we go at the best time of the year for comfortable walking conditions. We can’t guarantee perfect weather everyday, but you can book with confidence
Small Groups
a maximum of 12 only on each departure. Meaning, it’s better for the environment, and you won’t feel like you’re just a number in the crowd
Travel Assistance
our in-house travel specialists can assist you with travel insurance. If you’re arriving from interstate or from international destinations we can also package any accommodation, flights, and add-ons in addition to this tour. Package your Sydney walk with us and save stress, time and money
Packing List
A detailed packing list is provided prior to travel
- Gear you will need:
- Daypack
- Clothing suitable for walking that is quick drying and breathable – consider merino/synthetic clothing
- Light rain jacket
- Good walking shoes with grip
- Swimwear and towel
- Water bottles (2 x 1Ltr) that can be refilled
- Personal medications
- Sun protection such as hat, sunglasses and suncream, insect repellent
- Sleeping attire
Accessibility
Requires following trails carrying a day pack on uneven surfaces. Accommodation and transport includes stairs. Please talk to us about your accessibility needs before booking
Details
- Type: Women’s Guided Trips
- Adventure: Women’s Bondi to Manly Highlights Walk
- Destination: Sydney, NSW
- Traditional Country: Gadigal
- Group Size: Max 12 plus leaders
Fitness Requirement
- A good level of urban fitness is required to walk the trails on this trip
- You will be walking pack free (day packs only)
- The trail consists of a variety of surfaces including footpath, forest trail, stairs and soft beach sand
- There are some moderate inclines and declines
- Our longest walking day is 20km and we walk 3 consecutive days on this trip.
- Distances each day can be shortened using taxis/uber or public transport (own expense)
- Trip rating: Easy-moderate
Important Information
- *Eligible Past Traveller Discount applies if you’ve travelled with us on any of our guided tours which were 5 days duration or longer
- 5% Discount for Gold and Silver Wise Women Walking Members JOIN HERE
- Read terms and conditions before booking
- Itinerary and price subject to change at any time
- Travel Insurance is recommended. Get a quote from Covermore or Go Insurance
- Note weather, group member welfare and a range of circumstances outside our control can mean last minute changes to our itinerary are necessary once on tour
- A limited number of single rooms are available on a first-come basis
- Please contact us before booking any flights. Depending on flight arrival and departure times extra nights accommodation may be required at own expense
- A minimum number of travellers are required for this trip to depart so ask someone to join you. If minimum numbers aren’t reached, we may decide to still go or we will provide a full refund, subject to third party conditions
- If this trip departs during Fire Ban Season – last minute changes to our itinerary or walking days may be required for safety reasons
- Rooming is twin share
- Daily trail transfers are included except where public transport is used on Day 4 on the Manly Ferry
- If you have additional needs please connect with us, we’re committed to being inclusive and accessible
Adventure Leaders
Our team is qualified, experienced and super friendly. We will ensure you have a fun and connecting adventure. Leaders are certified in Remote or Wilderness First-Aid. All leaders carry a group first-aid kit, emergency communications device, emergency documentation and equipment.
Testimonials
“Loved the Sydney experience, with a great group of people. Aunty Maxime was a very positive inclusion, and her stories will stay with me for a long time”
Carolyn
“The beautifully scenic hike along the coast and through the beachside suburbs and the supportive and relaxed atmosphere the tour guides Lisa and Zoe created. To top it off, the luck of having other wonderful women on the tour”
Lisa
