Sunrises in Bondi
There is a famous 6k hike from Bondi Beach to Coogee along the ocean on a rock-cut path that is stunning. It passes by a number of inviting beaches, rock pools and cafes. The ideal time is sunrise which can be difficult but is somewhat easier with jetlag.
I chose to turn the hike into a few sunrise runs, which were extremely rewarding while watching the daybreak over the sea. It was difficult to focus on the run with all of the photo stops. One of stops was on the overlook of the world-famous Bondi Icebergs Pool.
The 50-meter pool on the edge of Bondi Beach is an unforgettable spot where the ocean waves crash right into the pool. For a small fee, you could swim in the pool or just take a few photos from the seawall that separates the pool from the ocean.
I joined the famous Sydney Run Club one morning. A large group of motivated runners meets every Friday at the Bondi Beach Pavilion just before sunrise (5:45am) to do a few warm ups and then go for an eight-kilometer run, cheering each other on along the way. I had heard about the group before my trip and was glad to hook up with them. The positive energy was contagious, and it was such a great way to start the day.
Bondi was so full of positive vibes - a lot of people start the day early rather than staying out late. As expected, most people were dressed in tiny spandex fitness gear, and at times it was difficult to see anyone over 40. Regardless, I enjoyed the energy.
Lack of commercial development has kept the hotel numbers down which really makes you feel like a local. The town was filled with foreign restaurant choices which expanded the cuisine choices available in addition to normal Australian fare. A local standout was Bills Café with their ricotta pancakes served with banana and honeycomb butter, well-deserved after a hike or run in the morning.
“If you haven’t seen the Opera House, you haven’t been to Sydney, and you have to take a ferry somewhere,” said Scott, who has been giving tours in the city since 2019. Most of the city sights are a 40-minute bus ride from Bondi. He was right - the Opera House is a gem and is regarded as one of the world’s most famous buildings. Designed by the Danish Architect, Jorn Utzon, and opened in 1973 by Queen Elizabeth II, the structure became a UNESCO heritage site in 2007.
Around the corner in The Rocks, Sydney’s old town, you can walk across the Sydney Harbor Bridge for an excellent view of the Harbor and the Opera House. The Circle Quay located in between the bridge and the Opera House is where the main ferry station is. Relatively inexpensive boats can bring you to several destinations in the city. Our guide recommended Manley.
The Manly Ferry provides a great tour of the harbor, crossing in front of the Opera House sometimes in rough water. Manly itself has harbor and ocean beaches as well as a nice little main street with plenty of cafes and restaurants, perfect for a little getaway while still technically being in the city.
The sunrises in Bondi and the sights in Sydney were a great intro into the “flat white” lifestyle of Australia. I felt recharged and ready to continue the adventure.
Niente in confronto alla piscina di Alghero🤣
I'm jealous of your trip!