Sydney: Living like a local
Whilst this might feel like a spot of deja vu, I assure you it isn’t! I am back in Sydney. After the most incredible six weeks travelling up the east coast on the experience of a lifetime I have come back to Sydney to settle myself again before heading off on even more adventures…
So, I spent a further two weeks staying in Manly and of course, I now have even more recommendations for you all on where to eat, shop, walk, tan and relax.
Where to walk
Although I was in Manly for two weeks, I only went on two proper hikes, this was because I became a total pilates princess!
Top Tip:
Class pass is such an easy way to try out lots of different exercise classes, I mainly stuck to reformer pilates - the two week free trial was absolutely perfect!
Palm Beach Barrenjoey Lighthouse Walk
This walk is only about an hours walk up to the Lighthouse and back, but I assure you it is not to be underestimated! Beginning at The Palm Beach Boathouse Cafe the hike begins with a peaceful stroll along Palm Beach before taking the winding track up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse. The slow and steady incline along the Access Track definitely comes with the promise of a thigh burn as you reach the summit.
Up at the lighthouse, the views out across the open ocean are incredible, and depending on the time of year, you might even be lucky enough to spot pods of whales in their migration!
The views
Taking the Smuggler’s Track down provides some incredible views over the entire Palm Beach peninsula, it is really breathtaking up there.
To see the world from up high always puts everything into perspective for me and brings such a sense of peace and alignment with the world. The steps down on the Smuggler’s Track can be pretty steep at some points, so a coffee or lunch down at The Palm Beach Boathouse is a must!
Total Mediterranean beach club vibes at The Boathouse Palm Beach…
Watson’s Bay Hornby Lighthouse Walk
The hike from Watson’s Bay to The Hornby Lighthouse is around 4.5km and takes 2 hours-ish.
Beginning at the wharf, the walk up to the Hornby Lighthouse takes you through the neighbourhood of Watson’s Bay until you reach Camp Cove. This secluded little beach is gorgeous and hosts the most adorable little kiosk. Once you cross through Camp Cove, ascending the steps onto the track you shortly reach Hornby Lighthouse.
The Lighthouse
It is painted like a true old-school helter skelter in a theme park. The views out to sea are amazing, of course, but my favourite views were about halfway between Camp Cove and Hornby Lighthouse at a viewpoint aptly named The Gap. You burst through the trees and are presented with a perfect view of The City - bridge, opera house and all!
Local Favourite: Camp Cove Kiosk
On the return I would highly recommend taking pit stop at The Camp Cove Kiosk. Offering some of the freshest orange juice and matcha in all of Sydney, it is a perfect way to take a beat and relax.
Where to eat
Collins Lane Cafe - Rose Bay
A stones throw from Watson’s Bay lies Rose Bay, I know such a cute name!
Collins Lane Cafe is totally adorable, nestled in an laneway that leads to the water. But let me paint the picture for you; this small laneway is lined with pastel coloured painted shops with swirly tiled paving stones. The yellow folding tables and chairs really add to the European vibe of this laneway.
Not only is the ambience fab, the menu is also totally delicious. I had the green goddess bowl with smoked salmon which really covered all the healthy bases. We know the Aussies love a green goddess salad or dressing and this one definitely delivered.
Rollers Bakehouse
Think all things pastry but with a twist, and that is Rollers Bakehouse. Tucked just behind The Corso, Rollers Bakehouse is the perfect courtyard coffee spot. Each month comes with new monthly specials, from a regular croissant or cinnamon scroll to something less ordinary like a totally tasty sun-dried tomato, olive and goats cheese croissant wedge there is something for everyone.
And top it off with a cinnamon cold brew or matcha, this is just the perfect place for a mid morning break.
P.S. I still haven’t stopped thinking about this one…
Lox In A Box
With a few locations dotted about Sydney and NSW Lox In A Box has gone totally viral. So naturally, I had to give it a go.
After completing the Coogee to Bondi hike, we settled in for lunch at Lox In A Box, Bondi.
Our Bagels
We all tried something different, covering a few bases - the classic lox, the chicken buffalo and the reuben bagel, they were all an absolute 10/10. Washing it all down with their signature caned strawberry matcha really tops it all off.
Pocket Pizza
Walk 5 minutes from The Wharf and you reach Pocket Pizza, a classic Italian with a twist. The pizzas are huge and perfect for sharing. They are so much more interesting than the classic options at pizza express, and all with a fun names. We had the Gordon Hamsey, Netflix and Chilli and Dr Pepper. These were genuinely some of the best pizzas I have ever had (not an understatement)
Chica Bonita
Manly’s best Mexican without a doubt. Chica Bonita takes the top spot of best tacos I have eaten in my 19 years on earth. Absolutely INCREDIBLE! Just so so much flavour. The restaurant itself is actually pretty small so getting a table is no mean feat considering how popular this little dinner spot is. The menu consists of starters and small soft shell tacos which are perfect to have on your own or to share with a friend.
We tried so much on the menu and everything was just delicious. Somehow, even their guac and chips was the freshest most tasty I have ever had. To follow that up we shared the ceviche, the Baja fish tacos, the corn volcano tacos and their famous cheeseburger tacos also. Surprisingly, my favourite were the corn tacos! With an open kitchen, rustic interiors, unreal tacos and cocktails and good music the vibes are there no matter the weather - Chica Bonita should be on everyone’s Sydney food list.
Where to drink
Manly Pavillion
The Pavilion or the pav the locals would say, is the perfect place for a relaxed sun-downer. A pav down under is basically their version of a pub garden. The outdoors or sort of pub garden section of Manly Pav is called The Espy and it is situated just next to the wharf so you can easily catch a stunning sunset whilst sipping on an aperol spritz!
After two months in Australia I am so sad to say I am leaving to travel further, but it is definitely not goodbye, but more see you later! Guess where I am going next…
Love, Bella xx
