This is a relatively new 6km walking track with superb views. It's probably also the best harbour walk, and is definitely one of the best things to do in Sydney. It takes you past stunning Chowder Bay at Clifton Gardens, the Lower Georges Heights Artists Colony, native bushland and historic military sites that have been closed to the public for more than 100 years.

The track finishes at Balmoral Beach which has a playground for kids, a marina, kayak hire, a rotunda, a small island, and the famous Bathers' Pavillion cafe and restaurant which serves up very tasty food.

The walk will take about 1 hour and 40 minutes at a leisurely pace. The Harbour Trust also conducts tours along some parts of the track. Ph: (02) 8969 2100. www.harbourtrust.gov.au 

At Lower Georges Heights, artists and sculptors live and or work in old iron and timber buildings. There are great BBQ and picnic spots here. Every November, during the Annual Art Day, the studios are open to the public.

For some of the best views of Sydney Harbour, go to Georges Head. This is where the army stood waiting to shoot at the enemy, at a time when Australia was convinced it would be invaded. The first lookout was built in 1801 when it was feared those pesky French might invade Sydney's shores!

Chowder Bay has a beautiful harbour beach that's safe for kids. It rarely gets very crowded because mostly only locals know about and it. It 's also a very popular spot for diving. There is a very good playground, public toilets, large grassed area, picnic tables and trees, a pier used for fishing, spectacular views, and two good cafes. The smaller one is called Bacino Kiosk. It has two outlets: a small one on the beach, and a larger cafe up the stairs, in a brown wooden long building. The other cafe/restaurant is called Ripples. This is an upmarket venue with sublime views, and a great place to go for a special visit. Ph: (02) 9960 3000. www.ripplescafe.com.au

Chowder Bay was named by American Whalers who used to drop anchor in the bay and make chowder from local pippies and oysters.

This walk will also take you past The Tea Room, Gunners Barracks. This is a special occasion venue with amazing views. Ph: (02) 8962 5900  www.gunnersbarracks.com.au


GETTING THERE

Take the Taronga Zoo ferry from Circular Quay. When you get off the ferry, head uphill to the start of the track. At Balmoral you can take the 238 bus from Balmoral Beach back to Taronga Zoo wharf.  MAP

Further Information
Phone the Harbour Trust: (02) 8969 2131
www.harbourtrust.gov.au

For information on getting to Taronga Zoo or Balmoral Beach by public transport, go to www.131500.info

For further information on directions: go to www.whereis.com/whereis/directions.do