Peak Autumn in Sydney: Walks, Music and Hidden Spots

With the world’s narrative focused on the fuel crisis, world tensions, economic predictions and cost of living hitting most, Brendan and Danniebelle began a search for the silver lining amongst the chaos.

With humidity lifted, rain retreating, sun providing perfect temperatures and the nights offering a freshness we didn’t know we needed, there is something that just hits differently about autumn in Sydney.

So we decided to open up the opinion lines for all things ‘peak autumn in Sydney’. Each day we have had a new focus to gather your recommendations on what you love about Sydney this time of year.

Is it your favourite running track, the change in fashion comforts or the idyllic street filled with reds, oranges and yellows as the trees change, causing you to pull over for the perfect photo opportunity?

We want to hear about them. As they come in, we are updating the list below, gathered from your ideas and recommendations.

Join us as we head into May with a celebration of all things ‘peak autumn in Sydney’.

The perfect playlist

Danniebelle suggested “Don’t Rein Me In” by Olivia Dean, while Brendan got passionate about “Joy (feat. Amma & Absolutely)” by RAYE.

• Golden Hour by JVKE
• Thank God I Do by Lauren Daigle
• Hard Fought Hallelujah by Brandon Lake
• You Know What I Need by PNAU
• Small Things by Bella Taylor Smith
• You Make Everything Beautiful by for KING & COUNTRY
• What an Awesome God by Phil Wickham

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Best walking trails

The days are sunny enough for a good walk without getting too sweaty and without getting caught in passing showers, making it ideal for exploring Sydney’s many trails and coastal treks.

Danniebelle said, “You can’t go past the 10kms Spit Bridge to Manly Walk. A good couple of hours walk with restaurants and cafes to finish after you take in some incredible views of this harbour city.”

Brendan said, “For me it has to be Barangaroo Reserve and Hermitage Foreshore Walk. It’s just a step off the metro and easy to get to with public transport. For those wanting a stroll or a faster paced walk, the views are incredible, changing at every turn and highlighting so many icons of this great harbour city. If you change your mind while strolling and decide to wrap it up, you can get to public transport and head home fairly easily.”

Listener suggestions included:

• Cascades Trail for me – Michaela in St Ives
• Cumberland State Forest has a great sensory walk that’s easy and engaging for the littlies. It’s in Castle Hill – Sandra in Kellyville
• South Head Heritage Trail is great when you have friends visiting from overseas. It’s fairly easy but feels off the beaten track right here in the suburbs – Peter from Mosman
• The views from the Barrenjoey walk to the lighthouse are great if you have kids. The views are spectacular and getting to the lighthouse is always a win no matter the age of children you have – Aston in Lane Cove
• Berowra National Park is our local favourite. It has over 70km of trails and walking tracks. We love it for a walk and picnic or chance to explore. Plus, it’s local to us – Kathy in Mount Kuring-gai

Best attractions or places to visit

Brendan launched this category by suggesting the many theatre shows currently showing in Sydney.

“I feel the theatre spaces are alive and well currently. If you have the spare change for a ticket, live theatre is absolutely worth it”.

“The Opera House is always running shows and parking at the Lyric Theatre is super accessible with fewer people in the area as they redevelop Darling Harbour. There’s nothing that compares to a live show in Sydney. Actually, there are a few fringe festivals coming up too that I’ll be checking out.”

Danniebelle, on the other hand, suggested Wattamolla.

“It’s a place that holds a lot of memories for me growing up. I used to love going as a kid as it has both a lake and beach vibe that not many really know about.”

Listeners also shared their favourites:

• Royal Botanic Gardens – the colours this time of year are unreal, plus harbour views – Kim in Potts Point
• Blue Mountains – cool crisp air and the trees changing create elite autumn vibes – Sarah in Oakhurst
• Taronga Zoo is less busy now and the animals are much more active in the cooler weather – Kristi in Hurstville
• Manly ferry ride at sunset, with cool breeze, golden light and incredible views. You have to see the harbour at sunset as clouds capture the sun’s rays and paint more colours across the skyline – Miranda from Bexley

Be sure to listen from 6.00 am daily to Hope Breakfast as they continue to compile this list.

Feature image: Canva Pro