Student report by Jessica M. – Daytrips into the nature from Manly
One major benefit of studying at ICMS is the great scenery around it. The college is located in the north of Sydney, which offers numerous opportunities to go on daytrips and explore the country. However, with all the studying going on, there is often just a day of time to see some new places. But no need to worry: With all the fantastic public transport offerings in NSW, it is easy to get to various breathtaking destinations the cheapest way possible. Let me show you some examples of what you can discover on your days off.
Bare Island – perfect for scuba diving
The little rock island south of Sydney is known for its scuba diving opportunities, but has much more to offer. The island itself is very small, just the size of the fort that is located on it. It is connected to the main land with a wooden bridge. The area around it is just as fascinating: Awesome sandy beaches, great lookouts, mesmerising walks through the nature. Getting here from Manly requires taking the ferry to Sydney Circular Quay and then two short trips on different bus lines. May sound a bit complicated, but works out really well without longer waiting times. For us, the first stop were the rock cliffs of the island itself. It’s an amazing spot for photos of all kind with the waves crashing in the background. Afterwards we went for a walk through the “bush” to get to Henry Head, which offers an incredible view over the ocean, Bare island and all the way up to Sydney’s city centre. I recommend going on this trip on the weekend since public transport fees are capped at 8$, so you basically pay for the first ferry ride only.
South Head – cute lighthouses and cliffs
South Head is somewhat the counterpart to Manly’s North Head. It also requires taking a ferry, but this time to Watsons Bay. From here it is a bit of a walk to reach the cute lighthouse at the entrance of the long bay leading to Sydney’s centre. From here you can follow the coastline towards the south. The walk can be quite exhausting on hot summer days with all its ups and downs so bring plenty of water or take regular stops in the cute little bakeries/cafés along the way. Your efforts will be rewarded with spectacular views from steep cliffs, a look down on crashing waves through a mirror system and the lighthouses along the way. Thanks to its proximity to the residential areas, you’re never far away from a bus stop and can finish your day whenever you feel like it.
Palm Beach – incredible beach view
Palm Beach is located north of Manly. To get there, simply take the bus from its first stop in Manly to the last one in Palm Beach. You’ll end up right next to one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve seen so far. Go for a short swim before you continue your walk. The beach is very long, just follow it to its north end. Here you will have the chance to climb the hill up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse. Either take the adventurous stairs and get some pretty Bali-like photo locations along the way, or use the slightly longer way offering scenic views all around. I recommend going up one and down the other way. From up here you will have the famous view with Palm Beach on one side and just a few metres further Barrenjoey/Station Beach on the other side of the narrow piece of land surrounded by the turquoise-blue sea. You can take your time relaxing on the beach and exploring the little town to make it a full day trip.
