Fitness

Sydney's Most Scenic Runs

Ready, set, go! Sydney knows how to do a scenic run like no one else so put on your activewear (who am I kidding you’re already wearing it) and add these runs to the bucket list. 

Spit to Manly
This is the ultimate bush beach run combo, starting at Sydney Harbour National Park and continuing along the coast. This run boasts some of the most spectacular views Sydney has to offer. It’s 10km and when you get to Manly beach there are plenty of places to rehydrate and refuel. 

Royal Botanic Gardens 
Take a breath of fresh air right in the heart of Sydney. This paved 4km run around the Royal Botanic Gardens will prepare you for the day ahead. Run along the harbour as the sun is rising and absorb the breathtaking views Sydney has to offer. It’s nice and short so you can’t make the excuse that you don’t have time, you could even manage a cheeky jog here on your lunch break. 

Lane Cove National Park 
How’s Inner city bush running for cool? Yes that’s right, there’s over 13km of gorgeous track in the serenity of a bush landscape. Take in the flora and fauna and listen to kookaburras chirp and you’ll forget you’re just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the big smoke.

Parramatta Lakes 
Just half an hour out of town you’ll find the Parramatta Lakes. If picturesque jogging is your thing then the lakes out west are a must do. There are three distances to choose from ranging from 1.5km – 4.2km, we suggest the 4.2km lake circuit, if you’re there, you may as well, plus it’ll make that dip in the lake post run that little bit sweeter. 

Words: Alice I’Anson 2019
Cover Image: Alice I’Anson 2019

Double Bay to Rose Bay
Run bay to bay along the shoreline. This sea breezy run is just 4km, so it’s perfect for a sunrise or sunset cardio hit. If you’ve got a little bit more time up your sleeve it can be a fun challenge to veer off the shoreline and get your heart rate up on the Point Piper hills.

Royal National Park
This 26km track winds along the southeastern edge of the Royal National Park. You can run along the coastlines cliffs and beaches to capture some seriously spectacular ocean views. Let’s be honest, unless you’re crazy fit or in training, 26km is pretty damn far. Lucky for us the beaches dotted along the way make the perfect place for a quick cool down break before hitting the track again. 

The Sydney Harbour Bridge 
The bridge spans 2km so is definitely doable as a return trip. With beautiful views of Sydney’s Harbour and the city this run is a must. To make it an extra magical journey head down through the Rocks to explore the beautiful old streets and buildings. Be prepared, hills and stairs are plenty, so you’ll be sure to get a good workout in a short amount of time.  

Coogee to Bondi
Possibly one of the most famous running routes in Australia, the Coogee to Bondi run is in a league of its own. It’s 6.1km one way but the views will have you running it return. It helps that there is always an opportunity at the end, or even in the middle, for a dip in the ocean. On any day of the year it’s guaranteed this track will be bustling with bodies in activewear.