Exploring Sydney: A 16-Day Aussie Adventure with Friends

Sydney's Northern Charms & Culinary Heights

Today was a day of contrasts, a true sampler of what Sydney has to offer. From the serene beaches of the north to the glittering skyline at night, it was a day packed with experiences that will definitely be etched in my memory. It's amazing how much variety this city packs into a single day!

Our day began with a bit of a trek to Tempe, a suburb I wouldn’t normally find myself in, but all in the name of experiencing a Sydney institution. Harry’s Café de Wheels was our breakfast destination, and it was worth the early start. I’ve heard so much about their famous pies, and let me tell you, the 'Tiger Pie' lived up to the hype. Topped with mashed potatoes, mushy peas, and gravy, it was a hearty and delicious start to our day. Élodie would have loved this place, she always appreciates a good, comforting meal. It reminded me of the simple, yet satisfying, food we used to enjoy back in Reims.


Discover Harry's Café de Wheels in Tempe, where iconic Australian pies meet casual dining in a vibrant setting.

With our stomachs full, we headed north to explore the coastal beauty of Avalon Beach. The drive itself was scenic, offering glimpses of the stunning coastline. Avalon Beach is a charming suburb, and the beach itself is quite picturesque. The rich orange-colored sand, a result of iron oxide, was a striking contrast to the typical yellow beaches I’m used to seeing. I took a leisurely walk along the shore, enjoying the crisp morning air and the sound of the waves. I even considered taking a dip in the ocean rock pool, but the water looked a bit too chilly for my liking. Avalon has a laid-back, surfer vibe that I found quite appealing, a world away from the bustling city center.


Discover Avalon Beach, New South Wales - a breathtaking coastal escape known for its stunning views, vibrant community, and endless outdoor activities.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing new facets of life.

Next on our coastal itinerary was Palm Beach, a bit further north. Palm Beach is known as one of the most beautiful parts of Sydney, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. The narrow peninsula is surrounded by water on three sides, offering stunning views of Pittwater, the Pacific Ocean, and Broken Bay. It's no wonder this place is a favorite for filming, most famously known as the setting for the long-running TV show *Home and Away*. The beach stretches for 2.3 kilometers, curving gently from Little Head to Barrenjoey Head, Sydney’s northernmost point. I took a walk to Barrenjoey Lighthouse, a heritage-listed landmark that offers splendid views of the coast. The climb was a bit steep, but the panoramic vistas were well worth the effort. From the top, I could see the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, the tranquil waters of Pittwater, and the lush greenery of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.


Explore the tranquil shores of Palm Beach, New South Wales, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes await.

Speaking of which, after our coastal explorations, we ventured into Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. This park is a treasure, a vast expanse of natural beauty located right on Sydney's doorstep. It's Australia’s second-oldest national park, and it’s easy to see why it's a recreational favorite for locals and visitors alike. The park combines important history with scenic beauty, offering a diverse landscape of winding creeks, stretches of ocean, rainforest, and eucalypts. We spent a few hours exploring the park, taking a leisurely hike along one of the many walking tracks. The air was fresh and clean, and the scenery was simply breathtaking. I was particularly impressed by the significant Aboriginal sites within the park, a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of this land. I made a mental note to return and explore more of this park, perhaps with Élodie, as I know she would appreciate its natural beauty and historical significance.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich Aboriginal heritage at Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park in New South Wales, a must-visit for nature lovers.

After a day of exploring the great outdoors, it was time to head back to the city for a change of pace. We freshened up at the YEHS Hotel Sydney Harbour Suites before heading out for our culinary adventures. Located in the heart of Sydney, the hotel offers easy access to many attractions and getting around was a breeze. The location of the hotel is amazing, especially when you want to go and explore the city's night life.


Experience unparalleled comfort and convenience at YEHS Hotel Sydney Harbour Suites, perfect for both business travelers and holidaymakers alike.

Lunch was at Mercado, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in the CBD. The restaurant has a focus on Spanish cuisine and offers a share-style menu. The ambiance was lively and sophisticated, and the food was simply outstanding. We shared a selection of tapas plates, each bursting with flavor and showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients. I particularly enjoyed the Jamón Ibérico and the grilled octopus. The dishes were perfect for sharing, and we savored each bite while enjoying a glass of Spanish wine. It reminded me of the tapas bars in Spain, a country I’ve always wanted to visit. The chef's passion for food was evident in every dish, and the service was impeccable.


Discover Mercado: A Culinary Gem in Sydney Offering Exquisite Spanish Dishes and an Inviting Atmosphere for Unforgettable Dining Experiences.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to O Bar and Dining, a revolving restaurant located on the 47th floor of Australia Square. This was an experience in itself. The restaurant offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city, and as we dined, the entire space slowly rotated, providing ever-changing vistas of Sydney's glittering skyline. The views were simply breathtaking, especially as the city lights began to twinkle. The modern Australian cuisine was equally impressive, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. I opted for the seafood tasting menu, which was a culinary journey through the ocean's bounty. Each dish was expertly prepared and beautifully presented. The service was attentive and professional, adding to the overall experience. It was a truly memorable dining experience, one that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting Sydney.


Experience the heights of culinary excellence at O Bar and Dining, where modern Australian cuisine meets breathtaking views of Sydney's skyline.

To cap off the night, we decided to experience Sydney's vibrant bar scene. Our destination was PS40, a cocktail bar in the heart of the city known for its unique and innovative drinks. The bar has its own soda production setup, creating handcrafted sodas with local ingredients and no preservatives. The atmosphere was buzzing, with a lively crowd and a cool, industrial-chic decor. I tried one of their signature cocktails, a concoction made with their homemade bush tonic and a local gin. It was a refreshing and flavorful drink, a perfect end to a perfect day. I appreciated the bar's focus on local ingredients and their commitment to creating unique and innovative drinks. It was a great place to unwind and soak in the city's vibrant nightlife.


Discover PS40: Sydney's premier cocktail bar, blending innovative drinks with a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable nightlife experience.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore the Sydney Fish Market, Pyrmont Bridge and Darling Harbour. After that, we'll be doing some shopping at Paddy's Markets Haymarket. I'm looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this amazing city.

Today was a whirlwind of experiences, a true sampler of what Sydney has to offer. From the serene beaches of the north to the glittering skyline at night, it was a day packed with memories that I will cherish. It’s amazing how much variety this city packs into a single day. I’m already looking forward to tomorrow’s adventures.