After initially revealing parts of its 2025 lineup in late 2024, Sydney Opera House's annual All About Women festival has unveiled the full program of events that'll focus on gender, equality and justice in March. Across two days, more than 50 speakers, including artists, thinkers and storytellers from both Australia and overseas, will participate in sessions that span women in sport and the influence of the Matildas, racism and sexism in the music industry, the impacts of skincare routines, and plenty more. For 13 years, marking International Women's Day with talks, panels, workshops and performances has been as easy as attending this highlight of the cultural calendar — a must-attend event not only in Sydney, but also nationally in recent years, thanks to the streaming of sessions online (which continues in 2025). For this year, Kate Berlant and Gina Chick joined the All About Women bill first, as did the return of the Feminist Roast. Kara Swisher, Rachel House, Jaguar Jonze and Grace Tame are now among the folks joining them come Saturday, March 8–Sunday, March 9. As revealed last year, Berlant is making her first trip Down Under, with the comedian and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Don't Worry Darling and A League of Their Own actor set to debut a new stand-up show. Alone Australia's first-season winner Chick is on the bill fresh from releasing her memoir We Are the Stars in October, and will chat about following your own path, grief and resourcefulness. Among the latest additions on a lineup overseen by the Sydney Opera House Talks & Ideas team — as led by Chip Rolley, alongside 10 News First's Narelda Jacobs and actor and writer Michelle Law — journalist and Burn Book: A Tech Love Story author Swisher will dig into the social-media platform formerly known as Twitter, while Heartbreak High star and The Mountain director House will chat through the importance of community and her Māori culture in her career. Jonze is on the panel discussing the present state of the music industry, as is Barkaa. And Tame is part of the Feminist Roast alongside Michelle Brasier, Nakkiah Lui, Lucinda 'Froomes' Price and Steph Tisdell. The Tillies join the roster via former Matildas goalkeeper Lydia Williams, plus Football Australia, the Matildas and the ParaMatildas Media Manager Ann Odong, with their session exploring the current situation for women in sport. Elsewhere, Dr Michelle Wong, Jessica DeFino and Yumi Stynes — plus Price again — will examine the impacts of beauty standards, especially upon younger generations. All About Women's 2025 program also spans sessions on the women who gave testimony at the Ghislaine Maxwell trial, the rise of domestic violence-related deaths in Australia, systems that are meant to protect First Nations children, perimenopause and how women's health is being commercialised, tradwives, grief, motherhood, the nation's declining birth rate, bodily autonomy and abortion, and being friends for life. "There is so much power in women and non-binary folks coming together to talk about the issues we are facing, whether that's in our workplaces and homes, throughout our country or the world," said Jacobs back in 2024, when the lineup's first details were announced. "The events I've co-curated are inspired by hot topics that dominate conversations with the women in my life — from the transformations women undergo at pivotal points in their lives, to the ways modern culture rejigs and repeats old stereotypes. We'll be having some cracker discussions that I'm sure will continue beyond the steps of the Opera House!" added Law. All About Women 2025 takes place on Saturday, March 8–Sunday, March 9 at the Sydney Opera House, and streams online, with pre-sale tickets for the full program available from 9am on Tuesday, January 14 and general sales from 9am on Thursday, January 16. Head to the event's website for more details. All About Women images: Jaimi Joy, Jacquie Manning and Prudence Upton.
There are times to be sensible, and there are times to treat yourself. If you fancy the latter right now, you're in luck — Sydney is blessed with heaps of dreamy destinations within a stone's throw. As long as you have the credit card to back it up, of course. We've rounded up 15 of the best luxury hotels, resorts, villas and stays in New South Wales — from architectural masterpieces and luxe vineyard escapes to next-level beach houses and seven-bedroom dream homes that'll fit all of your mates. But be prepared to splash some cash, these retreats are in a class (and price point) of their own. Recommended reads: The Best Glamping Sites in Australia The Best Hotels in Sydney The Best Spas in Sydney The Best Glamping Sites Near Sydney SPICERS SANGOMA RETREAT, BLUE MOUNTAINS Spicers Sangoma Retreat is comprised of five luxury suites that are perched on the eastern edges of the Blue Mountain ranges overlooking the Nepean River delta below. Each of the accommodations is surrounded by nature and decked out with all the top luxury fittings. Find king-size beds, fireplaces, private heated plunge pools, under floor heating, outdoor decks, kitchenettes, baths with views and heaps of space to relax within. You can even dine on the property at the hatted Restaurant Amara, where degustations are the name of the game — forever changing depending on what local and seasonal produce is available to the chefs. THE CAPE AT WATEGOS, BYRON BAY If you're after a laidback luxury stay with uninterrupted sea views, then these Byron Bay lodges should more than do the trick. The Cape at Wategos sits above the area's much-loved Wategos Beach (backed by a national park) and is super close to a bunch of great restaurants and bars. It has the ideal blend of feeling totally remote but still close to Byron Bay's fun stuff. Choose from one of the two-bedroom suites — each with massive private decks overlooking the beach — or go for the large Residence that sleeps up to six guests. Expect stark white interiors, Hampton-style furnishings, spacious kitchens and living areas, an infinity swimming pool and comfy king-sized beds. Either spend all your days up at the lodges or take a short walk down for afternoons of swimming and surfing with mates. [caption id="attachment_778161" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] EMIRATES ONE & ONLY WOLGAN VALLEY, BLUE MOUNTAINS This eco‐friendly resort is surrounded by all of the things you know and love about the Blue Mountains: endless greenery, wilderness and misty mountaintops. And you can take it all in while experiencing the utmost luxury that Emirates One&Only's 7000 acres have to offer. The resort's villas each offer a private swimming pool, veranda and fireplace. The property's grounds also include a communal swimming pool, a tennis court, spa, sauna, steam room and an array of outdoor experiences. If that isn't enough, there's a restaurant boasting seasonal menus, a wine cellar and a bar — pouring 1832 Wolgan Gin, which is distilled locally. [caption id="attachment_720481" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peter Aitchison and Baille Lodge, courtesy of Destination NSW.[/caption] CAPELLA LODGE, LORD HOWE ISLAND If you're taking the trip to Lord Howe, why not stay in the island's most opulent resort? At Capella Lodge, you don't need to choose between mountain, lush rainforest or striking ocean views — this super-luxe hotel offers all three. The boutique accommodation has been operating for over a decade and has become an Australian icon, especially after its $4 million facelift a few years ago. Views include the island's twin peaks, Mount Gower and Mount Lidgbird, along with pristine Pacific Ocean coral reef. In summer months, cool off in the onsite pool, or take a short walk down to the nearby beach. You can also enjoy one of the many long hikes in the region, followed by a relaxing treatment at the hotel's spa. SEIDLER HOUSE, SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS Seidler House is one of Australia's great architectural masterpieces — thanks to famed architect Harry Seidler. But did you know that you (and all of your closest friends) can actually book a stay here? The four-bedroom, futuristic-looking home is dramatically built into the cliff's sandstone rock formation and offers unobstructed views across the Southern Highlands. Expect sweeping vistas of the Wingecarribee River gorge, with plenty of balconies, patios and viewing decks to enjoy those views. Other key features include an outdoor swimming pool, barbecue and wood fireplace. Plus 150 acres of private gardens and two kilometres of river frontage to explore. And it's located a short 90-minute drive from Sydney, so is great for a weekend away with your fanciest mates. LASCALA HOLIDAY HOUSE, WOY WOY This seven-bedroom home is made for big groups of mates or a couple of families who are looking for a glam getaway on the Central Coast. You can squeeze up to 22 people on beds. And it still doesn't feel cramped. That's thanks to the large rooms, plenty of common areas and the stunning pool that overlooks the water. The Lascala Holiday House even has its own bar, billiards room, squash court and tennis court. This is the kind of place you'll remember staying at forever. [caption id="attachment_778158" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anson Smart for DNSW[/caption] PRETTY BEACH HOUSE, BOUDDI NATIONAL PARK Located within the gorgeous surrounds of the Bouddi National Park, the Pretty Beach House is not your average waterfront stay. As the name suggests, the resort is set above the escarpment of Pretty Beach and is located just 90 minutes north of Sydney. The exclusive retreat is home to just four villas, which include bayview split-level pavilions and treetop penthouses — each of which features separate king-sized bedrooms, log fireplaces and sandstone flooring. Then there's the main house, which offers guests unfettered access to an open bar, wine cellar, outdoor infinity pool and poolside pizza oven. Indoors, there is an open-plan kitchen, an expansive dining room, a huge sandstone fireplace and a library, all of which are yours to enjoy to the fullest. [caption id="attachment_718055" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kimberley Low[/caption] MONA FARM, BRAIDWOOD Mona Farm's luxurious yet homely farm is the perfect excuse for an out-of-town holiday. Located a three-hour drive south of Sydney in the town of Braidwood, the property is part luxury farm stay, part nature retreat and part art gallery. The country estate offers six historic farmhouses that have been luxuriously revamped by Australian architecture heavyweights. Beyond the accommodation, over 20 Australian and international sculptors have installed works throughout the gardens and grounds, giving the natural surrounds a modern appeal. And it really is a working farm, with Scottish Highland cattle, English Wiltshire Horn sheep, Wessex Saddleback pigs and Clydesdale horses all sharing the land — and platypuses, long-necked turtles and rainbow trout sharing the lake. BEACHCOMBER HOTEL & RESORT, TOUKLEY The Beachcomber Hotel & Resort is an iconic waterfront destination located in the heart of the Central Coast, Toukley. With sweeping waterfront views, Hamptons-inspired ambience, boutique-style accommodation, an exclusive pool club and multiple eateries and bars, it's a damn good place to switch into holiday mode. Be sure to also check out its list of weekly events for live gigs, DJ sets and food and drink deals — taco and tequila Tuesdays are not to be missed. [caption id="attachment_774383" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] BANNISTERS, PORT STEPHENS Bannisters Port Stephens is one opulent escape. The resort overlooks the Soldiers Point beachfront and offers 80 Hamptons-inspired suites — four of which are super-luxe one-bedroom suites with expansive ocean-view balconies and one of which is the over-the-top penthouse. A few of the rooms are also dog-friendly, with easy access to outdoors and walking distance to Wanda Beach. Other onsite indulgences include a seafood-heavy restaurant by an acclaimed Chef Rick Stein, a terrace bar with an infinity pool and a beer garden. These rooms understandably book out quickly, so be sure to plan in advance. [caption id="attachment_812064" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] BENDOOLEY ESTATE, BERRIMA The 200-acre property that makes up Bendooley Estate doesn't just offer a cellar door — it's also home to a luxe restaurant, an alfresco cafe, an outpost of the much-loved Berkelouw bookshop and an extravagant cottage stay. Located in gorgeous surrounds just 90 minutes outside of Sydney, the estate's cottages are perfect for a quick escape out of the city. Choose from up to three-bedroom layouts, each of which offers lakeside, valley or stunning vineyard views, which brings us to the added benefit of being able to fully enjoy the cellar door's wines without having to drive home. The winery serves up some of the best drops in the Southern Highlands, and also boasts a large fire and daily lunch service. BLACKBIRD, BYRON HINTERLAND Blackbird takes bed-and-breakfast to a new level, with its three high-end pavilions, views across the Pacific Ocean and tropical landscape. Each one-bedroom villa accommodates two guests and offers a large verandah, a Moroccan-tiled ensuite with a freestanding bathtub, a king-sized bed with Egyptian cotton linen, a fireplace and an outdoor barbecue. There's also a ten-metre magnesium mineral pool on site, and you'll receive complimentary champagne and local produce on arrival, plus breakfast each morning. Set on acres of rainforest in the Byron Hinterland, this is a retreat for nature-lovers. Heaps of outdoor activities are within easy access of your doorstep, including kayaking, mountain-biking and bushwalks, and the secluded spot is great for star gazing. Grab a few mates and book out the entire resort for a truly special getaway. ANCHORAGE PORT STEPHENS, PORT STEPHENS Anchorage Port Stephens is as waterfront as it gets. Many suites come with their own north-facing balcony or terrace, giving you dreamy views of the bay, foregrounded by the Anchorage Marina and backdropped by Corrie Island. The spacious interiors take inspiration from The Hamptons — think crisp, white linen and pale timber furnishings, splashed with blues and oranges. There's a variety of rooms on offer, from one- and two-bedroom loft suites to self-contained villas. This luxe resort also boasts a pool, day spa and two onsite restaurants, making it a true escape from your day-to-day. WHITEVALE ESTATE, HUNTER VALLEY A rather extravagant country retreat, Whitevale Estate will show you a whole new side of Hunter Valley. Drive down a tree-lined driveway to reach this expansive home, which fits you and up to 17 of your nearest and dearest. The open plan space boasts floor-to-ceiling windows with native bushland views, a vaulted lounge area with wood fireplace, galley kitchen, large leather sofas and a separate games room with a custom pool table, bar fridge and tele. Then there's the outdoor kitchen, which comes complete with another huge concrete table, a five-burner barbecue, a built-in esky and an adjoining in-ground pool. The seven bedrooms and six bathrooms include a master suite that features a herringbone-tiled hydro spa bath, marble walk-in rain shower, double vanity and expansive walk-in dressing room. It's safe to say you'll be fighting over this room. [caption id="attachment_812116" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nat Hallyer[/caption] SUNDARA BEACH HOUSE, SOUTH COAST Just steps from Werri Beach, Sundara Beach House is a two-storey retreat that is as luxurious as it gets. Its seven bedrooms sleep 14 people and feature stunning ocean, farmland views. The house is decked out with top-notch facilities including the ten-metre heated saltwater pool with a spa and adjacent Weber barbecue, a detached games room with a pool table and bar, and two lounges — one of which includes a fireplace and large windows that offer regular dolphin and whale sightings. For things to do when you're not in the lap of luxury, check out the nearby Gerringong town centre, which boasts award-winning restaurants, cafes and wineries. The oceanfront property is also five minutes from the Kiama Coast Walk. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world. Top image: Pretty Beach by Anson Smart for DNSW.
The flavours and rhythm of Beirut have arrived in one of Sydney's most historic precincts. Now open in The Rocks, Sahtein has taken over the former home of The Dining Room within Argyle Street precinct The Collective, bringing the generous, familiar dishes found in homes and neighbourhood restaurants across the Lebanese capital. The menu stays close to tradition, spanning cold and hot mezze, charcoal-grilled meats and seafood, alongside housemade breads, dips and pickles designed to remain on the table throughout. Dishes arrive as they're ready, encouraging the lively, overlapping style of dining that defines meals in Beirut. [caption id="attachment_1075622" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] All produce is halal, and much of the cooking happens over wood fire and charcoal. Highlights to start include a classic kibbeh nayeh, fava bean falafel with zingy tarator and sawda djej — sautéed chicken livers with garlic and mulberry molasses. The grill gets fired up for dishes like shish lahm (date- and tamarind-glazed wagyu skewers), noss farrouj (deboned half chicken with toum and Aleppo honey) and the signature raqabat kharouf — a slow-cooked seven-spice lamb neck served with kafta-stuffed zucchini, riz bi sh'arieh (vermicelli rice), labneh and tabouleh. Desserts also take cues from teta's kitchen, like a fragrant mhalabieh (rose and orange milk pudding topped with pistachio), sfouf b'debs (carob molasses and semolina cake with spiced tahini) and classic baklawa. Overseeing the kitchen are Executive Chef Mike Flood (Felix, Firedoor, Quay), Head Chef Rifat Katranci (The Cut Bar & Grill, Jimmy's Falafel) and Hunter St. Hospitality Culinary Director Santiago Aristizabal, who travelled to Beirut last year to research how the city eats. Cocktails further explore Levantine flavours — try the za'atar martini with amontillado sherry and olive oil, or the Downtown Beirut, a West Asian riff on a manhattan infused with fig, date and cherry, served tableside. A Med-heavy wine list rounds things out, alongside a considered arak selection available by the glass, carafe or bottle. [caption id="attachment_1075619" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] Top images: Steven Woodburn.
Australians are eating out less often as cost-of-living pressures bite, but younger diners are helping to keep the country's hospitality industry buzzing. New research released by the Foodservice Association of Australia (FSAA) and consumer insights platform Vypr shows that while three in ten people are cutting back on restaurant visits — and one in ten have stopped altogether — Millennials and older Gen Zs continue to dine out several times a week, or even daily. The 25–34 age group is one-and-a-half times more likely to head to a cafe or restaurant compared to the population average (79 percent versus 57 percent), with many weaving breakfasts, coffee breaks and light lunches into their daily routines. "Our data shows that while Australians are being more careful with their spending, they continue to see dining out as essential to their social lives," said Vypr's International Chief Revenue Officer, Sam Gilding. He noted that socialising with family and friends (60 percent) and celebrating occasions (44 percent) remain the top reasons to head out. [caption id="attachment_1023279" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Diners line up for viral burgers at Brunswick East's Charrd[/caption] Still, diners are more cost-conscious than ever. Nearly four in five spend under $60 per week on eating out, with value for money their biggest priority. More than half (52 percent) want better portion sizes, and almost two-thirds (63 percent) prefer discounts over loyalty schemes. Consistency across venues also matters, with 45 percent of respondents ranking it as a key improvement restaurants could make. Quick-service restaurants are the most frequented (62 percent), followed by casual dining venues (47 percent) and cafes (33 percent). Delivery apps are also especially popular among younger Australians, with 25–34-year-olds twice as likely as average to order via an app. Health and sustainability are increasingly influencing decisions, too — 71 percent of respondents said they seek healthier options, while 42 percent consider sustainability when choosing meals and venues. [caption id="attachment_1018380" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sydney's popular new Enmore bar, Deadwax.[/caption] FSAA CEO Minnie Constan said the report highlights important shifts. "We're thrilled to partner on this independent report at a time of real change in our industry. We pride ourselves on delivering accurate information that helps our members understand shifting consumer expectations and adapt to ensure foodservice remains strong into the future." Read the full Consumer Preferences & Dining Habits 2025 report here. Images: Supplied | Top image: Johnny's Green Room
Have you ever been half way through the work week and fantasised about living a simple life? Perhaps you've been dreaming about waking up in a timber cottage with nothing but rolling hills as far as the eye can see? Well, luckily for you, there's a small collection of architecturally designed houses on vineyards and cabins set amongst idyllic gardens in New South Wales — perfect for your next serene weekend venture. To help you live out your dungaree wearing, straw chewing, horse riding dreams, here's a list of the most charming farm stays across NSW you can book right now. Recommended reads: The Best Glamping Sites in NSW The Best Hotels in Sydney The Best Luxury Getaways From Sydney The Best Places to Stay in the Blue Mountains The Blacksmith's Luxury Cabin, Bellbrook Perfect for a rejuvenating and relaxing getaway. Situated on a regenerative organic farm, you can preorder hampers filled with the farm's fresh produce, book meditation sessions at the nearby "spirit pools", one-on-one yoga classes, massages, and Ayurvedic diet coaching. From $250 a night, sleeps two. The Gate House by Yeates Wines, Eurunderee This architecturally designed, split-level farm stay shares a backyard with Yeates Wines cellar door, so expect a complimentary wine tasting on arrival. It also boasts high ceilings, a slow combustion fireplace, a kingsize bed and sprawling views of the vineyard. From $390 a night, sleeps two. Jaguar Stay, Mogo One of three adult-only luxury villas on the property, all of which have their own plunge pools. Jaguar Stay is close to nearby South Coast beaches and is directly next to Mogo Wildlife Park, a small, privately owned zoo, so you'll be waking up to the sound of exotic animals. From $575 a night, sleeps two. Rustic Country Escape, Tenterfield An idyllic cottage situated on a creek with homely, rustic interior styling in the Northern Highlands. Set amongst picturesque gardens with a view of the adjacent farm, this farm stay is the perfect spot to switch off and unwind. From $247 a night, sleeps two. Vibrant Meadow Lodge, Far Meadow Gaze across the rolling countryside while lounging by the pool in this quaint and summer-heat-friendly cottage. Inside, cook up a feast in the bright and colourful country kitchen. From $399 a night, sleeps five. Kestrel Nest Ecohut, Mount Adrah Halfway between Sydney and Melbourne, this eco-hut is nestled above a rocky mountain stream on the edge of rolling farmland and a conservation area, with an outdoor bathtub, a fireplace and firepit. From $460 a night, sleeps four. The Shearing Shed, Cowra A charming renovated shearing shed with an open-plan living room. Five kilometres from historically rich Wiradjuri Country (Cowra), what was once a vibrant area during the Gold Rush era. From $250 a night, sleeps two. The Loft, Kyangatha The perfect farm stay for animal lovers, this two-level timber loft is set in a paddock with two horses, a small herd of cows and free-range ducks. It also has outdoor shower, a galley-style kitchen and a river on its doorstep. From $195 a night, sleeps three. Kumbogie Cabin, Daruka Situated on a working sheep farm, this eco-friendly retreat is as secluded as they come. Kumbogie Cabin is 900 metres from any neighbours that aren't the kangaroos, wallabies, birds and echidnas that frequent the surrounding bushland. From $150 a night, sleeps two. Luxurious Farm Stay, Peak Hill A renovated two-bedroom 70-year old shearing shed with French doors leading onto decks with views across the 118-year old property. Offers a family-sized barbecue for open-air cooking, and an outdoor bar to match. From $240 a night, sleeps five. All photos courtesy of Airbnb. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
No matter the name and no matter the hook, it seems that whosoever takes over the premises of 44 King Street shall open and operate a live-music themed bar in the basement. Once the home of lively New Orleans-themed joint The Swinging Cat, the venue is now home to Lucille's: the divier little sibling of nearby country music hotspot Jolene's. Recently opened by the same husband and wife duo that runs the aforementioned York Street mainstay, Simon and Lucille Rose-Hopkins, Lucille's is inspired by the pair's travels to the rock and blues heartland of the United States, and is named after Rose-Hopkins herself. In turn, she's named after a musical legend: "The name of the bar was a funny coincidence. Lucille is the name BB King gave his guitar after it was saved from a fire started at a bar… over a fight over a woman named Lucille. Lucille's parents saw BB King on a trip to the States many years ago and decided to name her after the guitar as well," said her husband and co-owner, Simon. While Jolene's is a love letter to the "classier side of Nashville," as the duo puts it, Lucille's takes inspiration from their favourite dive bars in Memphis and Dallas, with plenty of southern character and charm. True to the great blues and rock bars of the south, Lucille's welcomes regular live music from established and upcoming artists alike every Thursday from 7.30pm, and every Friday and Saturday from 8pm. The menu is simple but satisfying. The daily happy hour offering tells you everything you need to know about drinks: $14 margaritas, $7 beers, and $8 wines and select spirits from 5–7 pm daily. There's also a range of cocktails — some simple (like the whiskey and fresh apple), and some house specialties named after country songs, like Bright Lights, Big City and Southside of Heaven. The food is what you would imagine: comforting, moreish, Southwest-style snacks and shared plates to accompany the rock and blues tunes. Choose from mac and cheese balls, buffalo chicken bites, hotdogs and more, and you'll be whisked across the world to the home of the blues in no time.
Easter is a big deal at the Sydney Fish Market. How big, exactly? The Friday before Easter alone will see an estimated 50,000 people pour into the Blackwattle Bay site, and there'll be more than 650 tonnes of seafood — including over 100 tonnes of prawns and around 1 million oysters — taken home over the Easter long weekend. So, to make sure everyone's well looked after, the market is opening for a whopping 12 hours on Good Friday. If you're an early bird, you're in luck — the big day will start at 5am. But, if a pre-sunrise start isn't your idea of fun, then don't fret, because you'll have until 5pm to head along. It'll also be the last time you can do a Good Friday shop at the current site, with the 2026 Good Friday event taking place at the new (and nearly completed) Sydney Fish Market right next door. Whenever you go, you'll have more than 100 species of seafood to consider adding to your Easter spread. The cornucopia ranges from Sydney rock oysters and Balmain bugs to skipjack tuna and yellowfin bream. Stuck for ideas? Check out the Sydney Fish Market's cookbook A Fish For All Seasons, which is packed with recipes developed by the market's Sydney Seafood School. If you can't make it down on the Friday, then you'll still have the rest of the long weekend. The market will be open from 7am–4pm every day, as per usual.
One of the best ways to disconnect from the city and connect with nature is a leisurely soak in one of the best hot springs in New South Wales. Scattered across the state, most of these natural pools are sourced from the Great Artesian Basin — a massive underground supply of freshwater — and are renowned for their many health benefits, like melting away that muscle tension. Found tucked into the Blue Mountains or out in the vast expanse of central NSW, these hidden gems provide an opportunity for ultimate rest and relaxation. So grab your swimmers and get your body into one of the best natural hot springs near Sydney. Recommended reads: The Best Spas in Sydney The Best Ocean Pools in Sydney The Best Glamping Spots Near Sydney The Seven Best Out-of-Town Ocean Pools Near Sydney YARRANGOBILLY CAVES THERMAL POOL It's not hard to see why this thermal pool in the Kosciuszko National Park is a local favourite. Quiet and secluded, with heaps to explore in the surroundings, it's the perfect destination for an early autumn adventure or a crisp winter's day. Filled with water from a NSW natural hot spring, the 20-metre pool remains at a perfect 27 degrees all year round. Get there via a short (but steep) 700-metre walk from the nearby car park, or wind your way along the three-kilometre River Walk. If the temps aren't too frosty, have a post-swim feed in the adjacent picnic area before exploring the surrounding caves. Where: Snowy Mountains Highway, Kosciuszko National Park, Tumut. LIGHTNING RIDGE HOT BORE BATHS Located just outside the opal mining town of Lightning Ridge, these delightful baths are surrounded by remote bushland and are gloriously removed from all signs of civilisation — plus they're open 24 hours a day. You can soak in the hot waters of this NSW hot pool at sunrise, sunset, or any other time your little heart desires throughout winter. Night swims are particularly recommended as you can float in the 40-degree water while taking in the stunning expanse of the starry sky. A popular meeting place for Lightning Ridge residents, the baths are also a great place to get a feel for local life. Best of all? Entry is totally free. Where: Pandora Street, Lightning Ridge. BURREN JUNCTION BORE BATHS Want to extend your hot spring adventure into a relaxing weekend (or week) away? Pack a tent and head for the Burren Junction bore baths and campground. Camping is $6 per vehicle, and there are barbecue facilities, filtered water and electricity. Open 24-hours between April and November, the baths offer the opportunity to spend your days and nights soaking in the circular pool's 38-degree waters. Once you've melted away the week's tensions, head into town for a beer and a meal at the bustling Junction City Hotel for a taste of country town life just 2 kilometres away. While you're in the area, you may as well visit another natural bore bath in Pilliga. It's a half-hour drive from Burren Junction, and you can pitch your tent in the camping ground for $5 a night and, although the facilities are very basic, it's well worth it for proximity to the lovely baths. Recent upgrades have added a roof over the pool area, lighting for night bathing and a barbecue and picnic area. It's clearly one of the best natural springs in NSW to visit. If you'd rather rest your newly rejuvenated bod in a proper bed, book into the Pilliga Pub, three kilometres away from the baths. Where: Kamilaroi Highway, Burren Junction JAPANESE BATH HOUSE When relaxation is the name of the game, these peaceful baths on the outskirts of Lithgow are the perfect escape for anyone in need of a little R&R. Taking its cues from centuries-old Japanese culture, this picturesque bath house in NSW boasts indoor and outdoor onsen, as well as massage services, traditional gardens, public baths and accommodation all surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Blue Mountains. The natural mineral water here flows from 300 metres under the surface into the serine baths above ground. Book for a casual visit or a full day, or make the most of your relaxation with an overnight stay in one of the Japanese-inspired rooms celebrating the simple, unobtrusive beauty of the shibusa aesthetic. And don't bother bringing a phone charger, by the way — there's no wifi on the property and reception in the area is patchy at best, so you can unwind without any external distractions. Where: 259 Sir Thomas Mitchell Drive, South Bowenfels Top image: Yarrangobilly Caves Thermal Pool by Murray Vanderveer.
Of all the watery cities in the world, Sydney has one of the longest coastlines. By the time you count up all the beaches, the entire harbour and the scattering of islands, you've got a serious stack of kilometres behind you. We've brought you secluded beaches, outdoor pools and waterfalls. Now we're adding a dash of adventure to the mix, with 11 of the most unusual swimming experiences to be had in and around our city. A quick dip above a waterfall, with sweeping national park views? Check. An adrenaline-pumping frenzy in a wild, exposed ocean pool? Check. A deep plunge into a limestone gorge, bordered by steep marble cliffs? Check. Whether you want rapids, waves, rock scrambles, views, art, secrecy or nudity with your swim, we've got them all. Right here. Recommended reads: The Best Kayaking Spots in Sydney The Best Snorkelling Spots in Sydney The Best Beaches in Sydney The Best Coastal Walks in Sydney [caption id="attachment_880449" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andrew Harvey[/caption] FOR SECRETIVENESS: GLEDHILL FALLS, KU-RING-GAI CHASE NATIONAL PARK For a long time, the Gledhills were like ghosts. A few people said they'd seen them, but finding proof was difficult. These days, there's more information floating about, but the forest-encircled falls — and the ten-metre-wide pool into which they tumble — are still tricky to find. Set in the Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park, you'll need to do your research before you head out in search of this swimming spot near Sydney. First, pack your rock climbing shoes. Then, drive your car from Mona Vale Road, onto McCarrs Creek Road, until, after about 4.5 kilometres, you reach the teeny-tiny, easy-to-miss bridge that crosses McCarrs Creek. Initially, the track is clear, but, nearing the water, prepare to scramble. [caption id="attachment_703447" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] FOR WAVES: MAHON POOL, MAROUBRA BEACH Of all the rock pools wedged between the city and the mighty Pacific, Mahon Pool is the most adrenaline conducive. It's set at the base of the Jack Vanny Reserve along Maroubra Beach. From Maroubra's northern clifftops it's hard to spot, but make your way down the staircase from the Marine Parade carpark and you'll soon spy it among the exposed rocky outcrops. An inter-tidal position often means fierce invasions from the ocean, so adventure seekers should visit when the water's high and the wind's a-blowing for the biggest waves and the most fun. It goes without saying, though, to be careful when visiting this Sydney swimming hole. [caption id="attachment_703445" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andrew Gregory / Destination NSW[/caption] FOR SECLUSION: RESOLUTE BEACH, KU-RING-GAI CHASE NATIONAL PARK Despite its five million-strong population, Sydney is home to a number of secluded beaches. But Resolute Beach takes isolation and wildness to the next level. That's because the only way to reach it is by taking on the six-kilometre Resolute Loop Track, which turns off many a lazy beach-goer. Those with the stamina to handle it are, however, amply rewarded with an unspoiled, empty stretch of sand that's surrounded by Ku-Ring-Gai National Park and affords uninterrupted views over Pittwater. The hike to this Sydney swimming spot, which begins at Resolute Picnic Ground, also takes in a few other remote beaches, as well as the Red Hands Cave. [caption id="attachment_880453" align="alignnone" width="1920"] City of Canada Bay[/caption] FOR FRESHWATER: BAYVIEW PARK, CONCORD In November 2022 swimming was reintroduced to Bayview Park for the first time in 53 years. The Inner West beach first became a popular Sydney swim spot in the 1930s, but was closed and has remained unswimmable since 1969. However, thanks to work from $700,000 revitalisation project from the City of Canada Bay, Sydney Water and the Parramatta River Catchment Group (PRCG), this patch of freshwater is once again a hotspot for community swims. Accompanying the reopening is a range of new facilities which include a netted enclosure, picnic facilities and outdoor showers. We're so glad to see how this spot has been reinstated as one of the best swimming holes in Sydney. [caption id="attachment_703448" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Evelyn Proimos[/caption] FOR NUDITY: LADY BAY BEACH, SYDNEY HARBOUR NATIONAL PARK Thanks to Lady Bay's existence, you can be completely suited up in the middle of a work meeting at Circular Quay at 5pm, yet utterly naked amid all kinds of wildness by 5.30pm. Tucked into a calm cove near Watsons Bay, it's one of Australia's oldest nudist beaches — which first became legal in 1976, thanks to Neville Wran's blessing. Located within the Sydney Harbour National Park between South Head and Camp Cove, Lady Bay Beach offers views across to Manly and Middle Head, as well as top-notch vistas of the city skyline. Be sure to pack a picnic to enjoy pre- or post-swim, and keep an eye out for whales (seasonally) when visiting this idyllic swimming hole in Sydney. [caption id="attachment_880457" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] FOR RAPIDS: BENTS BASIN, BENTS BASIN STATE CONSERVATION AREA Pack your lilo — Bents Basin has rapids. Spend your day throwing yourself down them if you're the type that likes a slightly out of control swim. Otherwise, keep to the still water — it's one of the deepest swimming holes in New South Wales. A dramatic, wooded escarpment provides the backdrop, which means there's ample views for picnickers, too. Bents Basin is part of a Nepean River gorge and lies between Penrith and Camden, about 70 kilometres from the Sydney CBD. If you don't want to limit yourself to just one afternoon by the basin, opt to camp overnight in the State Conservation Area. Update Tuesday, November 29: Bents Basin is currently closed due to localised flooding. Check the NSW Parks and Wildlife Services website for current information. FOR INDIGENOUS ROCK ART: REEF BEACH, BALGOWLAH HEIGHTS You'll pass heaps of beaches along the Spit Bridge to Manly Walk, but one of the most secluded is Reef Beach in Balgowlah Heights. It's best to make your way here after the tide has gone out, because that's when Indigenous Australian carvings become visible in the rocks. This Sydney swimming hole is also just an incredibly tranquil section of Middle Harbour, offering excellent views of Manly and Sydney Harbour's northern section. If you don't feel like trekking the ten-kilometre track just for a swim, you can alternatively drive to Beatty Street — Reef Beach is just a short walk from the car park. [caption id="attachment_880448" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Phillip Terry Graham[/caption] FOR THE BUSHWALKER: KARLOO POOL, HEATHCOTE On the western end of the Royal National Park (a brilliant spot for kayaking, by the way), a tributary runs into the Hacking River. Known as Kangaroo Creek, it begins in the park. To reach the best swimming spots, take the Karloo Walking Track, a five-kilometre walk starting at Heathcote Station. Karloo Pool is the most popular — the round swimming hole offers pristine, turquoise waters fed by the cascading waterfall above. If it's busy, make tracks downstream, where you'll find more pools to explore. You can enjoy a picnic here, or mosey onward to Uloola Falls. If you have the time, continue on through the Uloola Walking Track, which finishes at Waterfall Station. FOR THE LAGOON LOVERS: WATTAMOLLA BEACH, ROYAL NATIONAL PARK Wattamolla Beach is like something from your most picturesque lagoon-swimming, bushwalking, beach-picnicking dreams. The Sydney swimming spot's the emerald-clear water isn't enough to get you jumping in the car and driving an hour south of Sydney, then the Royal National Park it lies in is sure to be. There's also a picnic area — so bring some snacks and plonk yourself down under one of the cabbage tree palms for an entire day of eat, swim, repeat. The beach has some serious fishing spots too, with water so incredibly calm it's a family favourite for snorkelling and liloing. If you fancy yourself a hiker, check out the Royal Coast Track, which links up to a camping spot if you're keen on an overnight stay.
When Thomas Weatherall was in high school, that he'd eventually spend his days pretending to be back there wasn't his plan. Until his final year, neither was acting. Dancing was the dream, and he had no awareness of Heartbreak High, which aired its seven 90s seasons before he was born. Now, he's one of the stars of Netflix's revival of the show. For his performance as Malakai Mitchell in the 2020s take on Australia's most-beloved teen series — which itself has become a huge hit that's rocketed up the streaming platform's viewership charts with both its first and second seasons, and has a third and final season locked in — he's now an AACTA- and Logie-winner. Weatherall's acting career started with ABC miniseries Deadlock back in 2018, when he was finishing high school. So, it didn't kick off with Heartbreak High. Next came short film Shed, short-form comedy series All My Friends Are Racist, the detective-driven Troppo and RFDS, which was also follows on from a past series — The Flying Doctors — that aired in the 90s. Onstage, his playwriting debut Blue premiered in Sydney, and now heads to Brisbane, with Weatherall also starring. But Heartbreak High and Malakai have been life-changing by his own account ("it feels cliched to say," he tells Concrete Playground about how that description rings true). Next up: two very different TV series, with Exposure a thriller led by Alice Englert (Bad Behaviour) that's bowing at the 2024 Sydney Film Festival and The Narrow Road to the Deep North a page-to-screen drama with Jacob Elordi (another on-screen high schooler in Euphoria). Weatherall knew that Malakai, the sporty Bundjalung student who is new to Hartley High in season one, was a standout role from the get-go. "I just hadn't seen a character like this," Weatherall tells us. The depth of the writing in fleshing him out on the page, the fact that he was an Indigenous teen pushed to the fore and never a token inclusion, that his culture wasn't what defined him: they all left an impression. After getting cast, so did the script for season one's fourth episode — the unforgettable instalment that sees Malakai experience police brutality — which he read in one sitting in his car. He was then willing to do whatever it took for the part. Again, his performance earned him Australia's top TV accolades. That episode had a title that means something in Heartbreak High history: 'Rack Off'. Utter the phrase to anyone familiar with the 90s iteration and they'll instantly think of Hartley High's first run on-screen. Weatherall didn't go back to watch the OG show when he got the gig, but there's no escaping the legend of those two words, and that they were as strong as a free-to-air series could get in its language. "It is funny, I forget — I read the script sometimes and the things that we're allowed to say, I just imagine if we had that same network TV censorship, you're probably cutting about 80-percent of the show. So we're probably lucky in that regard," he advises. In season two, as Hartley's students keep expressing themselves in not-safe-for-90s-Aussie-television terms — and also getting caught up in an ideological battle about toxic masculinity, and terrorised by a mystery figure they dub Bird Psycho — Malakai's journey takes him from stairwell hookups with Amerie (Ayesha Madon, Love Me) to connecting with the latest newcomer in Dubbo export Rowan (Sam Rechner, The Fabelmans). A love triangle, exploring both his sexuality and his identity, and yearning to connect all follow. It's another complicated path for the character, as for each of Heartbreak High's main figures. Crucially, it also satisfies one of Weatherall's aims as an actor. "It can feel like quite a selfish career a lot of the time, because you're often on your own, and you have to put a lot of time and effort into breaking down characters, and spending time on your own and things like that — but for me, I never want to just be playing the one character. That's the beauty of Malakai, it feels like you're playing several different characters and notes in one person," he says. From how the response to the first season felt through to the way its second season ended for Malakai, we chatted with Weatherall about all things Heartbreak High — choosing not to check out the original, what excited him about stepping into Malakai's shoes in the first place, how he sees the character's story across the two seasons so far and making the leap to acting from dancing all included. On the Massive Success of Heartbreak High's First Season "Very surreal. Very unexpected. It's a funny thing, I think you never know how a show's going to come out while you're making it — and while we were making it, and once we wrapped, you knew that we had something special. It felt really good. I think that was pretty unanimous across the board. There wasn't any real stress. Sometimes, I think you can also finish a job and know if it's a dud. But for it to then get picked up the way that it did, and for people to care about it in the way they did, was pretty shocking. And it's very flattering and humbling to be in that position. I was having dinner with Bryn [Chapman Parish, Mr Inbetween], who plays Spider, and we were chatting about that. Because it's your job, it's a great job to have, but you do get used to it and it becomes a normal part of the career. You forget that it means as much as it does to some audiences — and I think that's the special thing. It's lovely that it had a big reach and that it was successful, but when you get to actually talk to an audience member who really identifies with Malakai, or one particular storyline, or the show as a whole, that's — I've been very lucky that I've got to do quite a few shows now and all I'm very proud of, but none have landed in that way and built that connection with an audience. And for it to kick off in the awards and things like that, it really, it feels cliched to say, but it is pretty life-changing once that conversation starts and you find yourself in that world professionally and artistically. It opens you to a lot more professional opportunities. It then does make the second season a bit more terrifying, because there's something to, I guess, try to live up to and match. But it's a very lucky position to be in at the same time." On Starting the Show as a Heartbreak High Newcomer Off-Screen — and Not Going Back to Watch the Original "I was at drama school at the time when I got cast, and the only reason I knew about the show was the head teacher at my drama school played one of the teachers in Heartbreak High. And so it was this whole thing always that she'd mention Heartbreak High — and all of us, it was a bit of an eye roll. We were like 'okay, we get it'. But it wasn't something that I had seen before. It was before my time, and I didn't even, with my older siblings, I didn't really have any gauge on it. When I got cast, initially I was going to go back and watch the show. That felt like the right thing to do, and it would be helpful. But once the scripts came through, it felt as if it was going to be quite different, and much more obviously rooted in today's climate and what's going on for young people now — it became too scary and intimidating to go back and watch it. Because you also don't want to try to recreate something. That show was great and did everything that it did, but it is a product of that time. I think there's still similarities between the two versions. We're speaking to a lot of the same truths. But for me, I didn't want to confuse those contexts, and try to not have any anticipation or idea of trying to replicate anything — and just stay true to what we're trying to say in this show." On What Excited Weatherall About Playing Malakai When He Was First Cast "I'm still quite early on in my career, but it was very early on back then. I'd been up for a few things and I'd done a little bit of work. I was getting good auditions, but I just hadn't seen a character like this. I had never been sent a role like this, obviously, for a show with this scale or anything like that. But to see — he was just a really well-written character, and that was it for the self-taped scenes before the audition, and that was exciting to be seen for that. It wasn't till when I got offered the role and was sent the scripts, they sent me episode four of season one, which is a very significant episode for Malakai. And I finished that episode and just called my agent straight away and went 'I'll do anything to play that'. I think back to when I was 16 and the sort of the shows that were being made. There were some for young people that I felt were doing a pretty decent job and honestly depicting what it's like to be a teenager, but it always felt like they were holding the punches a little bit. And this show was just not afraid to do that at all. And then to have that lens of this young Indigenous character not just being a side plot point but being one of the lead characters — and being one of the main lead romance arcs as well, and then having a very dramatic storyline. A lot of the scripts that I'd seen and read, or a lot of the shows that I had watched growing up and even lately, often those characters, they're one little subplot. They're one little mention. They serve one capacity or another. And suddenly you had this young Indigenous kid, one of the leads of the show and getting to do a bit of everything, and that was really refreshing. He's part of the massive ensemble, but I hadn't read anything like that. He wasn't ashamed of his culture, but it also wasn't the most-important thing in his life, and he was going through the same experience as every other kid from every other culture and every other gender and every other experience. And for me, that was a really refreshing take, rather than trying to tokenise it in any way. Then, as I said, pretty much I'm in credit to the writing team. The moment episode four landed in my emails, I read it in one sitting on my phone. I didn't even get out of my car. I just read the whole thing and went 'yep, okay, anything for that'." On Stepping Back Into Malakai's Shoes for Season Two — and What Changes, and What Gets Easier and Harder "I was shooting the second season of this other show I do called RFDS, and I had four days off between wrapping that and starting the second season of this. I flew in from Broken Hill, where we shoot the other show, and it was just four days of existential crisis because I was going 'do I still remember how to play this character? How does he sound like? What does he look like?', you know, and trying to tap into that again. I think it's a credit to the writing on this that all of the characters are fully formed. Really, the writing does all the work for you. You don't have to bring much to them and they kind of jump off the page. But I also noticed the difference, as we get to know the writing team and the producers, I think they tend to tweak little things to match you and your sensibilities as well, which is nice. The moment you shave and you go into makeup, and they do that Malaki haircut, and they put the colourful jumpers on me. Music's a big thing for this character, back to those playlists — it really was muscle memory and just kicked in, which was nice to still feel that that was there. So the actual transforming and getting back into the character was quite easy and swift, which was a relief, frankly. But that first few weeks of filming, it was that voice in the back of your head going 'you've got to make sure that you're staying to that same level as last season'. I'm very grateful for the recognition it got and the success that I received from the show, and that the show was a whole received, but it definitely did put that pressure on trying to go 'well if you don't get nominated for an AACTA again, did you do your job?' sort of thing. It was lovely that audiences responded well to Malakai, but you want to make sure that you sustain that throughout the second season. But the more days on shoot and the more I get to spend time with this cast — we have a lot of group scenes that we tend to load at the top of the show as well, and once that dynamic creates — all that concern sort of falls away and you can just get the job done." On Weatherall's Take on Malakai's Journey in Season Two "Once I read the whole show and knew the entire arc, it was really bittersweet. I don't mean it in a rude way, but I don't tend to get too attached to the characters. I sort of go 'whatever services the story, that's the job'. But I really felt for him, and I don't know if it was just a reflection of where I was in my life. I often think back to myself at 16 and there's a few similarities between us, but we are very different. But really at the heart of it, he's just searching for contentment and he's trying to find his people in a romantic sense, but in just a friendship and community sense as well. I think he's this charming and charismatic guy, but underneath all of that, there's this real search for belonging, which I can definitely relate to at 16. I mean, I can relate to it at 23. I noticed that. It was hard, because he's charming and he knows how to have fun, and there's all the romance and things like that — that was a big thing that stuck with me this entire season, that journey and never quite getting it right, or the times where he thinks he is and something changes, and the indecision of being 16 and not knowing what the right choice is but also desperately attempting to make that decision. When you're 16, everything feels like the most important thing in your life, and then you leave high school and you go 'yeah, life goes on'. I definitely I felt for him a lot this season. I think he's crammed a lot of a self-discovery journey into a term of high school. I don't know how I would have held up if I was 16 doing that." On Balancing Malakai's Charm and Outgoing Nature with His Interiority, Uncertainty and Being Caught in a Love Triangle "That's kind of the best — it's a blessing as an actor, is that you've always got that in the back of it. So it's the question of when he is being that charming, charismatic, loud, funny, whatever it is, that he's using the persona that he's putting on, how much of that is a facade to cover up either that insecurity or that questioning or discomfort? Again, Malakai and I are quite different, but I remember at 16, that's exactly how I coped with those questions or with whatever was happening in my life — that facade that you can put on. As I said, for an actor, it's wonderful that you get to play both sides of that. And in this show particularly, you have one scene where you're on the top of the world and it's this beautiful romantic moment, and it's all about love and the joys of being a 16-year-old, and being ignorant and free. And then the next scene, you're crying on an airplane, because you know you also have very little control over a lot of the things that happen to you at that age. Because you're still a minor. You're still figuring things out. And you're at the mercy of your peers in school and your parents, and all of those bigger concepts. As an actor, that's the best thing to do, rather than just having to be the funny guy or be the heart of the show or the introspective one. He fluctuates between all of them." On the Acting Dream When Weatherall First Made the Leap From Dancing "There wasn't one, to be honest. I'm still just holding on for dear life and seeing where it goes. I was certain to be a dancer. That was the be-all and end-all of my life. And I got interested in acting through writing. I was really interested in writing and filmmaking towards the end of high school, and got cast in this ABC series in year 12 and that was just it. My first day on set, I just went 'this is it. I want to do this'. I remember telling my mum after 11 years of 40-hours-plus dance training a week, I was like 'I'm going to be an actor, no more dancing' — and just quit on the spot and made that decision. And to her credit, she completely supported that. I think I've always been interested in creativity in a larger sense, with writing, and the thought of maybe directing or producing one day and creating work. And I think acting is a part of that, and it's a part that I love and I hope I can do for as long as people keep giving me jobs. I like to think of it in a bigger sense in creating a bit more work. If you had told 17-year-old Tom who's getting his first audition that he'd be on a Netflix show or doing some of the other work I've been doing recently, I wouldn't have believed a word of it. I've been very lucky, again, to be on a show like this and have the reach it has. I've been able to work with actors I really admire, and creatives that I've sort of genuinely dreamt of working with. So yeah, it's been very surreal." Heartbreak High streams via Netflix. Read our reviews of season one and season two. Images: Netflix.
Sprawling over volcanic hills and boasting not one, but two harbours, Auckland may be New Zealand's largest city, but it still offers hidden corners to get away, without having to hit the highway. With lush native rainforests and black sand beaches in the west, sheltered golden sand beaches in the east, and a cultural hub of a CBD packed with eclectic eateries, it's hard to find a dull moment Tāmaki Makaurau. Visiting is truly a rare experience — one moment, you're hiking through rugged bush, staring across stunning sea-views, and an hour later, you can be strolling through Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki or having a cocktail at a lively inner-city bar. There really is something for everyone in this picturesque and culturally diverse city. So, whether you're travelling from across the pond in Australia, or you're a Kiwi yearning for a staycation, we've pulled together ten of the most unique stays for your next break. Recommended reads: The Best Places to Go Glamping in New Zealand The Best Places to Go Glamping in Australia The Most Unique Stays You Can Book Around New Zealand The Most Unique Stays with Breathtaking Views of New Zealand's South Island NZ Summer House, Riverhead This one bedroom pool house is situated on a equestrian lifestyle property 30 minutes from Auckland's CBD. Close to vineyards, award-winning restaurants, West Coast beaches and popular bush-walking spot Riverhead Forest, it's the perfect place to park up for a mix of adventure and relaxation. From $271 a night, sleeps two. Piha Hut, Piha This newly built one bedroom house is nestled amongst Nīkau palms in Piha, a seaside spot known for great surf, rugged scenery and nearby waterfalls. The sheltered deck looks onto Lion Rock, a volcanic monolith with Māori carvings and war memorials. From $118 a night, sleeps two. Piha Retreat, Auckland Designed by internationally acclaimed architect Chris Tate, this retreat house is perched amongst native rainforest and boasts some of the area's most epic views of Lion Rock. Watch the sun go down from the outdoor bath, while your companion cooks up dinner on the deck's barbecue. From $248 a night, sleeps four. NYC Style Loft, Auckland If you're after a chic urban stay a stone's throw to restaurants and bars abounds, this industrial warehouse style apartment may be your next city getaway spot. From $135 a night, sleeps four. Luxury Piha Escape, Piha This architecturally designed abode with sweeping sea views is perfectly positioned on Piha, Auckland's world famous surf beach. With two bedrooms, an open plan living room and a massive timber deck, it's a perfect oasis for a beach getaway with friends. From $769 a night, sleeps eight. Relaxing Coastal Retreat, Manukau Heads Live out your castaway dreams at this coastal cabin positioned on a small farm. If the driftwood fence isn't enough to get you excited, the outdoor bathtub, sea-views and close proximity to a winery and golf club just might. From $190 a night, sleeps two. Alfriston Stables, Alfriston Transformed from unused stables to a jaw-dropping industrial-style loft, this country escape has everything you need for rural R&R. Perched at the end of a tree-lined lane, with moody renovated interiors, a large swimming pool and a desk for your leisure. From $124 a night, sleeps two. Blackpool House, Waiheke Island This secluded home set amongst the magnificent Taraire trees is an architectural wonder. The spacious structure melds a contemporary sensibility with a retro interior that makes for a warm and inviting stay. Be sure to take full advantage of the naturally lit mezzanine library that looks out on Te Huruhi Bay. From $390 a night, sleeps two. Te Kouma Heights Glamping, Manaia Find luxury off the grid in this tent for two with endless ocean and farmland views. Enjoy fully equipped solar power, a king bed and two claw-foot outdoor tubs facing the glittering Coromandel Harbour. From $330 a night, sleeps two. Coastal Acres Escape, Āwhitu Journey through rolling green pastures and whites sans at this home on the Tasman sea. Just an hour and a half outside the Auckland CBD and tucked between towering dunes, your worries will was away in these double claw foot baths with perfect views for a sunset soak. From $207 a night, sleeps six. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Sydney's upgraded inner city Metro line has scored another win, this time on the international stage, with news coming out of the Prix Versailles international architecture awards regarding Sydney's very own Gadigal station. The Town Hall local metro station was awarded the Prix Versailles World Title — Special Prize for Interior at the 2025 ceremony. Earlier in 2025, the station was awarded the position of one of Prix Versailles' "Magnificent Seven" — making it one of the most beautiful station interiors in the world. Every day, approximately 15,700 commuters pass through the station, which shares a sandstone-based aesthetic with most of its metro station siblings, but stands out with its own special touch. That's thanks to Callum Morton's The Underneath, the tiled murals you'll see at both entrances to Gadigal, twin designs that depict the ends of a connected tunnel. The obvious reference in the design is the context of an underground train station, but Morton also took inspiration from the history of the location, which once held a freshwater tributary for the Tank Stream valley, which supplied water, food and wetland to the Gadigal people. Another defining feature of Gadigal is Return of the Gadi Reed, four cast-aluminium sculptures by Rowena Welsh-Jarrett, Alison Page and Dakota Dixon that are located in both entrances to the station. The sculptures are inspired by traditional reed necklaces made from Gadi, a reed that once grew on the aforementioned Tank Stream valley. In response to the station's international acclaim, Sydney Metro Chief Executive Peter Regan said, "Winning the Prix Versailles World Title – Special Prize for Interior confirms Gadigal Station as a global architectural standout and reinforces Sydney's reputation for world-leading transport design." "Gadigal Station's recognition on the world stage is a proud moment, with this award celebrating not only outstanding architecture, but a station that reflects our city's cultural heritage." Images: Transport NSW
Sometimes, you just want your own space at a restaurant or bar, especially if you're celebrating — that's when you hunt for the best private dining rooms in Sydney. Within these secluded parts of the venue, you can be as loud as you like (or escape all the noise of the public areas), order from bespoke menus, control the room's tunes and sometimes even have access to a private bar and bartender. Whether it's your best mate's surprise birthday, your annual Christmas party, or you're, say, Drake and would like to damn well enjoy your Australian tour dinner in peace, these venues have the best private dining rooms in Sydney — ready to go whenever needed. Recommended reads: The Best Restaurants in Sydney The Best Bars in Sydney The Best Wine Bars in Sydney The Best Pubs in Sydney
When it comes to the best restaurants in Sydney, top-tier talent abounds. We may be most famous for our beaches and our bridges, but food may just be what we do best. This food-obsessed city of ours has a swag of standout offerings to suit whatever niche cravings you've got going on. But there are some spots that simply reign supreme; places where the food packs a punch, the vibe is never not on point and you fall in love a little more each time you visit. Here, we've rounded up our 20 picks for the cream of the crop — the best restaurants in Sydney. From new players reinventing Sydney's perspective on certain cuisine to long-standing spots that are just as exciting as the day they opened; these are the city's must-visit venues for any discerning food aficionado. Feast on. Recommended reads: The Best Cafes in Sydney The Best Bars in Sydney The Best Wine Bars in Sydney The Best Pubs in Sydney
Henry Lawson once quipped that "beer makes you feel the way you ought to feel without beer". While the Australian writer's final years were spent tramping around the streets of Sydney, penning poems for a pittance, there was an earlier, brighter time when he was known for enjoying a casual drink with his bohemian set in some of Sydney's famed pubs and hotels. Some of which, somehow, still stand. Sydney has a fetish when it comes to knocking down the old for the new — or if not knocking down, then refurbishing until it resembles an airport cafeteria designed by an IKEA intern. But, a few unlikely establishments have managed to maintain an old-fashioned charm, which makes for a brilliant place to down a schooner. So if you're nostalgic for an age gone by, there are still some watering holes that will deliver. A hundred years since Lawson met his untimely demise, here are ten of the best inner-Sydney pubs where you can wallow in the threadbare velvet of Victorian Sydney and wonder if you're sitting with the ghost of our most beloved, and possibly tragic, writer. The kind of place where you just might pen a poem, as Lawson surely did. [caption id="attachment_816379" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Arvin Prem Kumar[/caption] THE HERO OF WATERLOO, 1843 Several pubs in Sydney claim to be the oldest, and while The Hero of Waterloo almost certainly isn't, none transport to the early days of Sydney with as much authenticity. Standing for 179 years, the Waterloo serves as a guide to our dark colonial past. Be it the hand-chiselled sandstone walls or the smuggler's tunnel leading to the harbour, which is a Historic Australia Landmark as classified by the Heritage Council and The National Trust. It's not just a living museum but a wonderful place for a drink. It's also as haunted as a pub gets. MARBLE BAR, 1893 Once above ground and now thoroughly below, George Street's Marble Bar was not a victim of a sinkhole, rather a rare story of development done well. Built in 1893 by man-about-town George Adams, it would eventually be dismantled and reassembled underground when the Hilton arrived in 1973. Crafted from the finest marble in Africa and Belgium, it cost a fortune but it gave Sydney something it lacked — an establishment to rival the finest saloons of Paris and London. Liza Minnelli once battled through a schooner here but I'd opt for a cocktail. A martini or a sazerac for the finest room in Sydney. THE LONDON, 1857 Once the local of literary heavyweights Germaine Greer and Clive James, Balmain's London Hotel is among the finest examples of convict-era pubs. With its sandstone exterior, an interior decked out in South Australian timber and a brass-lined bar, it doesn't matter where you pull up a stool, you're bound to be enchanted. For a true Balmain experience, turn up on a sunny Sunday afternoon and wrestle your way to a spot on the balcony or the street-side beer garden. If you manage a piece of Sydney's finest real estate you'll soon understand why this 1857 landmark is the jewel of Darling Street. SHAKESPEARE HOTEL, 1879 Rising out of the backstreets of Surry Hills like a pirate ship run ashore, the Shakespeare is a Sydney treasure. Built in 1879 there's a kegful of charm here, be it the blue tiles cascading down the bar or the Victorian-style rooms above, every nook and cranny has a story worth telling. Famed for journalists, skaters, actors and all the bohemians Surry Hills could conjure, it's the kind of place where you can bring your dog, have a Reschs on the street and a schnitty at the bar — everything a pub ought to be. For a genuine experience, grab a drink before catching a Bunnies vs Roosters match up the road. [caption id="attachment_779851" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] THE EAST SYDNEY HOTEL, 1856 It's hard to say what most impresses about the East Sydney. It could be the fact it's pokies-free, the live jazz on Sundays or its effortless country charm. Regardless, it's a wonderful place to indulge yourself on an afternoon, especially since they offer up their own craft beer and have revitalised their bistro. Dating back to 1856, it's a landmark pub in a suburb of landmark pubs, but what stands out is its simplicity. No bells and whistles here, just a genuine nineteenth-century inn, with a commanding wooden bar, copper nail floorboards and an interior decked out like the Parisian Salon. It's a bush poem come to life. THE NAG'S HEAD, 1865 Glebe might be the finest suburb in Sydney for a pub crawl, and if you're so inspired be sure to finish at The Nag's Head. Built in 1865 and named for God-knows-what reason, the true essence of the Nag is found on the second-floor balcony while enjoying a schooner. With its elegant front bar, a wonderful bistro and regular live music, if this ends up being your local then you're doing better than the rest of us. [caption id="attachment_822238" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andy Mitchell[/caption] THE BALD ROCK HOTEL, 1876 Complimenting the tranquility of its native Rozelle, The Bald Rock is a delightful pub designed to spend an easy and unassuming afternoon. Built in 1876 in the Victorian-classical style, the hotel retains its original sandstone interior, which gives it a bygone feel you just can't fake. With a storied history of booze-smugglers and drunken horses, it's now a family-friendly venue with a leafy courtyard and a high-quality bistro. Swing by on a Sunday night for live Irish music and the best guinness in Sydney. THE CARLISLE CASTLE, 1876 Somewhat sheltered from the madness of Sydney's most eclectic suburb, if you're lucky enough to stumble across the Carlisle Castle then prepare to be floored by Australia's best-looking old-school bar. Built in 1876, the Carlisle was refitted by Reschs in the twenties to include a glorious (and damn expensive) marble bar from Italy. It became the centrepiece of a hotel long adored by artists, musicians and locals. There's also a pool table, a dartboard, a piano parlour and more often than not, a dog on a stool enjoying a pint (of water). It's perfectly, unashamedly, Newtown. THE LORD WOLSLEY, 1881 Gone are the days when this Ultimo institution was frequented by the movers and shakers of Sydney's criminal class. Now it's all craft beer and garden jazz on Sundays in New South Wales' narrowest pub. Standing tall since 1881, The Lord Wolsley boasts a killer bistro and a leafy ambiance brought to life with classic wooden finishes and suitably blood-red carpet. [caption id="attachment_624441" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elise Hassey[/caption] THE LORD DUDLEY HOTEL, 1895 Enjoying a pint outside the Lord Dudley in Woollahra, the late, great Anthony Bourdain fell in love with a uniquely Aussie tradition. "Daytime drinking is really underrated," Bourdain observed. And we agree, few things are better than a pint of ale on a sunny Sydney afternoon and there are few places better than this eastern suburbs classic. Since 1895, this Tudor-like pub with creeping-vine exterior has been a drinker's paradise (a foodie's too, with scotch eggs, Guinness pies and lamb-fry). And if the sun ain't shining then park yourself by the ornate wooden bar, the dartboard or the open fireplace. Top image credit: East Sydney Hotel Woolloomooloo by Cassandra Hannagan, 2020.
There are two types of people in this world: those who must eat brekkie and those who roll out of bed and get to the office sans sustenance. If you're the latter, we get it — life often gets in the way of breaking your fast. No doubt, though, when 11am hits, you're usually stinging for a snack. Whether you reach for the office bikkie tin or dash out to grab something from the closest cafe, there's no question our productivity is better when we're not counting down the minutes till lunch. So, why not save yourself from going hungry — and save some dosh — by making your own snacks? In partnership with Glad and its new Glad to be Green range, we've teamed up with Cornersmith Co-owner Alex Elliott-Howery to bring you the perfect go-to treat: the tahini muesli bar. While Alex is a master of pickles and preserves, she also makes mighty good snacks. She's also passionate about reducing food waste, with sustainability a big focus at Cornersmith, as well when she cooks at home. Alex's tahini muesli bars are packed with pantry staples, so minimal planning is required — and they take all of 20 minutes to make. So, do yourself a favour and whip up these nutritious and delicious bars. And, just think of the bragging rights when you bring these homemade treats into the office. [caption id="attachment_813279" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Reuben Gibbs[/caption] INGREDIENTS Makes 12 bars Dry ingredients 1 cup rolled oats 1 cup desiccated coconut or puffed rice (or a mix of both) 1 cup mix of pepitas, linseed, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds Handful chopped walnuts, almonds or hazlenuts 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/3 cup LSA or wheatgerm 60g chocolate buttons or dried fruit Wet ingredients 1/2 cup tahini 1/2 cup honey 1/3 cup coconut oil [caption id="attachment_813284" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Reuben Gibbs[/caption] METHOD Preheat oven to 160 degree celsius and line a 16 centimetre x 16 centimetre tray with Glad's compostable baking paper. Combine tahini, honey and coconut oil in a small saucepan and melt over low heat. Then, in a bowl, combine rolled oats, desiccated coconut or puffed rice (or both), your mix of seeds, the nut of your choice and ground cinnamon. Stir wet mixture through the dry muesli mix, ensuring to coat well. Add LSA (or wheatgerm) and chocolate buttons (or dried fruit) and stir well to combine. Pour mixture into baking tray and press to flatten. Cover with baking paper and firmly press the mixture again with the palm of your hand. Bake for 20–30 minutes, or until golden brown. Refrigerate overnight to allow to set. Then, cut into 12 bars (or whatever your ideal snack size is). Keep in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. For some additional tips, check out the video below. https://vimeo.com/557081707 Go green and visit the Glad website for more tips and tricks. Top images: Reuben Gibbs
When it comes to orchestrating a first date, the suggestion of 'we could go grab a drink somewhere' is conventional but lacks creativity. The bar as a venue for first-date small talk is the 20-30-40-50-plus-somethings dating default. It's non-committal and virtually foolproof. But as a date concept, the classic 'grabbing a drink' milieu isn't exactly memorable. So, if you feel it's time to spice up your game, here are some ideas to get you started. From budget-friendly daytime spots to revamped tried-and-true classics, this is your guide to Sydney date ideas, providing an alternative to your regular rotation of bars. [caption id="attachment_722294" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Vic161015 via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] BYO Picnic at Wendy's Secret Garden in Lavender Bay In a city as spectacular as Sydney, why wouldn't you want to head outdoors? There's something uniquely romantic about a sunset picnic by the water in a garden created by a local cultural icon. Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden is a leafy haven with history, hidden artworks and harbour views. And it is just as suitable for a leisurely stroll as it is for flinging out the rug and having a couple of beers. It's scenic and, importantly, as budget-friendly as you want it to be. Check out our favourite Sydney picnic spots if all goes well and you're up for a second date. [caption id="attachment_779829" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] See a Cult Classic Film at Golden Age Cinema Before you groan in protest at the idea of a movie as a date option, think again. Golden Age is more than your average movie theatre. Hidden underneath one of the best hotels in Sydney at Surry Hills' Paramount House, this venue brings back the romance and nostalgia of cinema in its heyday. Screening beloved cult classics plus a thoughtfully selected program of recent releases, Golden Age's intimate session sizes make this spot perfect for taking someone special. Best of all, you'll be sipping some of Sydney's best cocktails and stellar snacks like the ever-changing selection of popcorn flavours and a cheese or charcuterie board. If the vibes are high and you're looking for a spot to break down what you just saw with your plus one, head to one of the bars and restaurants nearby. Our picks would be Poly or the sleek lobby bar at the Ace Hotel. Paddleboard or Kayak Your Way Across Sydney Don't let the tourists have all the fun. For those who like a date designed around an outdoor activity, this one's just for you. Navigate the waters of the harbour like a pro by taking a stand-up paddleboarding lesson from the crew at Rose Bay Aquatic Hire. Or do it yourself and check out one of our five other favourite SUP spots around the city. There'll be possible spills and embarrassment, but this has to be one of the best ways to experience Sydney's sparkling scenic spots and, besides, water is just a naturally flirty medium. Otherwise, if balance isn't your strong suit, how about kayaking? Get Active Indoors If Sydney's unpredictable weather serves up a downpour or you're looking to add some healthy competition into your romantic endeavours, check out Sydney's indoor bouldering scene at either 9 Degrees in Waterloo or Blochaus. Both have multiple levels of difficulty, so they're perfect for beginners and pros alike. [caption id="attachment_885771" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sam Manchester[/caption] Stay After Hours at the Gallery Live music, drinks and the city's best art. No, this isn't the opening of the hottest new night-time venue. On Wednesdays throughout the year, the Art Gallery of NSW keeps its doors open late to bring together Sydney's art-loving community for Art After Hours. Each iteration features the likes of live music, talks, workshops and access to the gallery's latest exhibition. [caption id="attachment_797676" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nikki To[/caption] Learn Some Culinary Skills with a Cooking Class New year, new chance to learn new skills. For most of us, that's how every January starts — but once February, March and April roll around, it's easy to let that plan fall by the wayside. Enter Cornersmith, the cooking school run by the beloved cafe crew at the FoodLab Kitchen in Strathfield will load you up with new know-how. The organisation's hands-on workshops cover a range of topics but focus largely on the likes of pickling, preserving and fermenting. Always wanted to know how to make your own tofu? Fancy making your own bottled tomatoes? Desperate to create and perfect your own signature hot sauce? Head along, and you'll learn everything you need to. If seafood is more up your alley than making marmalade, check out the Sydney Seafood School's culinary classes. Located above the current Sydney Fish Market site, the school has been a staple for top-notch cooking classes for over 30 years. And pasta lovers can check out Paddington's Italian eatery Barbetta, where you can up your in-kitchen game thanks to its regular (and super popular) pasta-making classes. Running regularly throughout the week, the classes let you get your hands dirty while you learn to roll out the likes of gnocchi, lasagna, fettuccine, orecchiette and strozzapreti. Level up with Arcade Games, Dodgems and Bowling If the couple that hits the arcade together stays together, then this town of ours has a few options to help your relationship keep going strong. From the moment you walk into Redfern's Beercade, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time with rows of classic arcade games, pinball machines, darts and pool. Plus, as the name suggests, beer, cocktails, wine and non-alc options, so you and your date can hit flippers, smash buttons and pass go. Otherwise, you can head over to B. Lucky and Sons to shoot hoops, show off your dance game skills and race through Mario Kart, all while drinking boozy bubble cups; get weird at Hijinx Hotel for a series of larger-than-life activities and escape rooms; or head west to Sydney's largest indoor fun park. [caption id="attachment_712468" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Expedition Escape Rooms[/caption] Try to Escape from a Locked Room (For Fun) By now, we've all heard about escape rooms. They've been a big thing in adult puzzles for a few years now, so much so that Brooklyn Nine-Nine even based one of its storylines around the concept. And, they've popped up all around Sydney, so you can choose between an eerie Australian outback-themed room in Redfern, a 1940s espionage mission in Newtown and a version set in a haunted toy shop in St Peters that is truly cursed but also fun. Trying to find your way out of a confined space is a great bonding activity as well as a good way to stress-test compatibility. [caption id="attachment_701146" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption] Lean into the Romance and Catch Some Jazz It may be a cliché, but it's a cliché for a reason: jazz is horny. There are plenty of places around Sydney where you can integrate jazz into a date each week. On the more opulent side of things, you can head to Restaurant Hubert — one of the best restaurants in Sydney for our money — which hosts daily live jazz with a luxurious side of magnificent French cuisine. If you're looking for a more relaxed spot to catch a wailing sax or silky piano, local favourites like LazyBones and Yulli's Brews host regular free jazz nights, too. Take Home a Memory from Your Date at a Pottery Class If you're eager to pick up a new skill but cooking isn't your preferred use of your hands, head to Clay Sydney for a pottery class. Catering to beginners and more seasoned pottery enthusiasts, the studio runs a variety of workshops that will have you getting messy and flexing your creative muscles. You can choose to make a keep cup, dinner set or teapot; opt for a wine and clay night where you can enjoy your favourite pét-nat or craft beer during the class; or there are even date-night specific packages if you want to really lean into the romance. Top image: Golden Age by Cassandra Hannagan
Another in the series of budget-friendly dumpling joints within the Prince Centre, Chinese Noodle House sits just across the way from Chinese Noodle Restaurant, both luring you in with their 'grapes on the roof'. Similar to its neighbour, it's the plates and baskets of dumplings that attract the crowds, and while some love the sticky special braised eggplant at Noodle Restaurant, others prefer the crispier fried version here. Beyond the beloved doughy parcels, you can dig into bowls of house-made noodles in a huge selection of broths, fried noodles and all the garlic and fish sauce-covered Chinese broccoli you can manage. The restaurant has also expanded in recent years to include a number of outdoor dining tables, meaning you won't have to push and shove for a seat any longer. Getting the attention of a waiter is not always easy, but with plenty to keep you distracted around Haymarket, you won't be sitting there bored. We recommend a serving of pork dumplings, braised eggplants, flat noodles and salt and pepper squid. The food is consistent at Chinese Noodle House and is always delicious. One of the best things about the restaurant is that it's BYO, so head on over to Market City beforehand and grab a couple of long necks or a bottle of hearty red and give in to the excesses of Chinatown. Images: Trent van der Jagt
Nothing beats the simple beauty of a quaint community market. Roaming the stalls of local producers and artisans, tote bag in hand, the sounds of music and happy marketgoers all around you. South Sydney residents would know from a local favourite, one that's swapping its historically weekly runs for a monthly recurrence: Green Square Markets. Like its Cambridge Markets-run siblings in Ryde Wharf, Wentworth Point, The Entertainment Quarter, The Cannery, and many more spots around Sydney, Green Square Markets is all about local produce and community spirit. It's been a year since the Green Square Markets kicked off, and now, from Saturday, April 26, the markets will take over Zetland's Green Square Plaza from 9am to 2pm on the fourth Saturday of every month. During each edition, you'll find a 50-stall-strong selection of fresh produce, baked goods, international eats and unique artisan goods, all sold by local vendors. Beyond the browsing, you can expect live family entertainment in the form of puppet shows, bubble wands, live music and more. It's a top excuse to get out of the house and get among the community spirit. The fact that you can get a great bite to eat, too, is gravy. To get there, the Green Square train station is across the road from the plaza, or parking can be found on Johnson Street and Queen Street, Alexandria. [caption id="attachment_1000732" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Christian Gilles[/caption]
Australia's biggest cities certainly hold their own when it comes to the world's best food capitals. But if there's one type of cuisine that lacks the same plethora of options compared to, say, Italian, Vietnamese or Greek, people tend to agree it's Mexican. While access to essential ingredients has steadily improved over the years — think nixtamalised corn tortillas, specialty chillies and Oaxaca cheese — satisfying your culinary cravings isn't always easy. However, lovers of Mexican cuisine can soon experience one of the best from the country itself, as CDMX-based taqueria El Vilsito is bringing its incredible food halfway across the world to our shores. Descending on Howard Smith Wharves in Brisbane and Manly Wharf in Sydney for two-weekend-long residencies this March, the tour is all part of an authentic takeover of La Mexicana — a Mexican food festival running alongside the tequila-soaked Margarita Week. For the occasion, two chefs from El Vilsito are making the long trip to Australia, working alongside a local culinary team to ensure the taqueria's crowd-pleasing tacos hit in precisely the same way as when served from their Mexico City mechanic's workshop. For the uninitiated, the eatery is especially admired for its tacos al pastor, where marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit is thinly sliced and served in corn tortillas. "El Vilsito was one of those places that stays with you," says Howard Smith Wharves Brand Director Katie Moubarak, who experienced the taqueria during a research trip to Mexico. "From the moment I stepped inside, the energy, the generosity and the food felt completely alive. Being able to bring their chefs and their way of cooking to Australia felt like a natural next step after experiencing it firsthand." Given the widespread international recognition El Vilsito has received over the years, its arrival in Australia is significant. Not only has the taqueria been recommended by the Michelin Guide, but it's also featured in The New York Times' 36 Hours in Mexico City Guide and in Netflix's Taco Chronicles. To make the experience even more special, Sandra Blanco, daughter of El Vilsito owner Juan Carlos Blanco, is also travelling to Australia. "We've welcomed so many Australians to El Vilsito over the years, and their love for our tacos has always stayed with us," says Sandra Blanco. "Our family has been making food here for nearly forty years, so being able to bring our chefs and recipes to Australia and cook them in the same way we do at home feels incredibly special." The El Vilsito pop-up is happening at La Mexicana from Thursday, March 5–Sunday, March 8 and Thursday, March 12–Sunday, March 15 at Howard Smith Wharves in Brisbane. Then, in Sydney at Manly Wharf from Thursday, March 19–Sunday, March 22 and Thursday, March 26–Sunday, March 29. Images: Andrea Tejeda K.
For a month in 2026, The Phantom of the Opera will be there, on a floating stage on top of Sydney Harbour. Each year, Australia's most-stunning performance venue welcomes a big-name Opera Australia show to unleash its wonders with a spectacular backdrop. Just like in 2022, 2026's production involves the music of the night echoing over the ocean. The extremely popular Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour has repeated titles before, but there's a particular reason for Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera haunting its scenic setup again so soon. 2026 also marks the stage musical's global 40th anniversary. There's phenomenal ways to commemorate a milestone and the there's this. When it takes to Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour's picturesque waterfront digs at Mrs Macquaries Point for 2026 — across Friday, March 27–Sunday, April 26 — this run of The Phantom of the Opera is kicking off a worldwide program of events planned for the year to celebrate four decades of the show. The production will also increase the huge audience numbers that've spent time with The Phantom and Christine, given that it has already been seen by 160-million-plus people in 205 cities across 58 territories across its lifespan so far. Simon Phillips, who recently helped bring Round the Twist from the screen to the stage, initially directed the 2022 Handa season — and is back for 2026, too. Also a highlight: the eye-catching production design that includes a giant chandelier. Images: Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour's 2022 production of The Phantom of the Opera © Prudence Upton / Hamilton Lund.
Brisbane has been laid bare. In one of the most-ambitious installations in a career filled with them, acclaimed New York artist Spencer Tunick has turned the River City's famed Story Bridge into the site of his latest mass nude photography work. Called RISING TIDE, the piece is a follow-up to his 2023 work TIDE. While the latter featured around 150 people posing naked by the Brisbane River, the former enlisted a cast of 5500 on one of the Queensland capital's landmarks. Tunick keeps using the River City for inspiration to celebrate diversity, equity and inclusion, with his latest instance literally stopping traffic. Indeed, it isn't just cars that've now brought Brisbane's Story Bridge to a standstill in 2024. On Sunday, October 27, the famed river crossing closed to vehicles from 1–9am to become the site of Tunick's newest nude photography work instead. In behind-the-scenes images from the shoot, the river crossing packs its expanse with unclothed participants — sometimes reclining on their backs, sometimes on their sides with their arms to the sky. Although the Story Bridge has shut for roadworks and even a market before, there's never been anything like this in the structure's 84-year history. Because taking over one iconic Brissie spot wasn't enough, RISING TIDE also incorporated the Brisbane Riverwalk. Both TIDE and RISING TIDE come courtesy of Brisbane's annual LGBTQIA+ arts and culture festival Melt — and attendees can see the images from TIDE at 2024's fest at Brisbane Powerhouse until Sunday, November 10. That exhibition marks the first time that Tunick has put his work on display for the public, as well as his first-ever Australian showcase, with both milestones coming after 30 years and 100-plus installations spent making his style of art. There's no word yet if the Story Bridge images will get the same treatment, but folks who took part in RISING TIDE will receive a print of the final artwork. "This work on Brisbane's Story Bridge and locations around it has been my most inclusive installation to date. Five-and-a-half thousand people is my largest Australian work so far and this one is very special because it celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community and allies," said Tunick about RISING TIDE. "Photographing all the participants on the bridge was like looking down the mouth of a whale, filled with love and diversity." "I wanted to be a part of something bigger. I've gone through illnesses, and you just get to a point where so many people have seen your bits over the years that you just go 'why not?'. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," noted one of the participants. "It's really nice to see so many different body types — shapes, sizes and age groups. I came alone so it's pretty fun to see that so many other people have braved it as well," added another. "It's a sense of unity that you don't often get. It's just an incredible opportunity for people to come together, to celebrate each other and to celebrate art," advised a third. Over the past three decades, Tunick's installations have seen him hit the Whitsundays with almost 100 naked Aussies in 2019 and briefly turn Bondi into a nude beach in 2022. The artist initially turned his lens Australia's way in 2001 in Melbourne, when 4500 naked volunteers posed for a pic near Federation Square as part of the 2001 Fringe Festival. Since then, he's also photographed around 5000 nude people in front of the Sydney Opera House during the 2010 Mardi Gras, then returned to Victoria in 2018 shoot over 800 Melburnians in the rooftop carpark of a Prahran Woolworths. Elsewhere, Tunick has photographed the public painted red and gold outside Munich's Bavarian State Opera, covered in veils in the Nevada desert and covered in blue in Hull in the UK. Spencer Tunick's 'RISING TIDE' installation took place on Sunday, October 27, 2024 on Brisbane's Story Bridge during Melt Festival. For more information about the fest, head to the event's website. Images: Markus Ravik.
For a month in 2026, The Phantom of the Opera will be there, on a floating stage on top of Sydney Harbour. Each year, Australia's most-stunning performance venue welcomes a big-name Opera Australia show to unleash its wonders with a spectacular backdrop. Just like in 2022, 2026's production involves the music of the night echoing over the ocean. The extremely popular Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour has repeated titles before, but there's a particular reason for Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera haunting its scenic setup again so soon. 2026 also marks the stage musical's global 40th anniversary. There's phenomenal ways to commemorate a milestone and the there's this. When it takes to Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour's picturesque waterfront digs at Mrs Macquaries Point for 2026 — across Friday, March 27–Sunday, April 26 — this run of The Phantom of the Opera will kick off a worldwide program of events planned for the year to celebrate four decades of the show. The production will also increase the huge audience numbers that've spent time with The Phantom and Christine, given that it has already been seen by 160-million-plus people in 205 cities across 58 territories across its lifespan so far. Simon Phillips, who recently helped bring Round the Twist from the screen to the stage, initially directed the 2022 Handa season — and is back for 2026, too. Also a highlight: the eye-catching production design that includes a giant chandelier. "We're honoured to be playing such a prominent role in the 40th-anniversary global celebrations for this iconic musical, in the same year that OA is marking its own significant milestone with its 70th anniversary," said Opera Australia Acting CEO Simon Militano. "Our spectacular staging of The Phantom of the Opera, with its magical setting on Sydney Harbour, and the sweeping gothic romance and unforgettable music, all combines to create a fantastic showcase of OA's artistic excellence, and an event not to be missed." As always, included in the new The Phantom of the Opera Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour experience is not just the show on the overwater stage, but also fireworks each evening, dazzling Sydney skyline views and hitting up pop-up dining spots that are constructed onsite each year. The Phantom of the Opera at Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour will run from Friday, March 27–Sunday, April 26, 2026 — with tickets via Opera Australia subscription packages available from Tuesday, August 5, 2025; single-performance presales on offer from Tuesday, August 26, 2025; and general tickets available from Tuesday, September 2, 2026. Images: Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour's 2022 production of The Phantom of the Opera © Prudence Upton / Hamilton Lund.
Usually, heading to Bondi Beach means keeping your kit on. Visitors can expect to see swimwear as far as the eye can see, but no stark-naked bodies. The morning of Saturday, November 26 wasn't a usual morning at the famous Sydney spot, however, with more than 2500 folks baring all — for art, and for an excellent cause. Back in October, acclaimed New York artist and photographer Spencer Tunick announced that he'd be staging another of his mass nude shoots in Australia, this time heading to a Harbour City beach. That destination: Bondi, which has welcomed everything from a Stranger Things rift to a WorldPride rainbow already this year, and now went naked ever so fleetingly. Kicking off before sunrise and snapping to capture the early-morning light, the art installation marked the first and only time that Bondi has become a nude beach. That said, getting starkers was only permitted for the shoot. Dubbed Strip Off for Skin Cancer, Tunick's latest work was timed to coincide with National Skin Cancer Action Week, which started on Monday, November 21 and runs till Sunday, November 27. More than making history, raising awareness about — and funds for — fighting the disease was the main aim. "Skin unites us and protects us. It's an honour to be a part of an art mission to raise awareness of the importance of skin checks. I use the amazing array of body types and skin tones to create my work, so it feels perfectly appropriate to take part in this effort in that my medium is the nude human form," said Tunick back in October, when the installation was announced. "It is only fitting that I use my platform to urge people to get regular check-ups to prevent skin cancer. I have not had a skin check in ten years, so I am one of the many who have wrongly ignored getting them regularly. One can say I am traveling all the way to Australia to get one!", Tunick continued at the time. For more than two decades, Tunick has been staging mass nude photographs in Australia. In fact, it's been 21 years since the country's first taste of the internationally famed talent's work, when 4500 naked volunteers posed for a snap near Federation Square in Melbourne as part of the 2001 Fringe Festival. Tunick then photographed around 5000 nude people in front of the Sydney Opera House during the 2010 Mardi Gras, headed back to Victoria in 2018 shoot over 800 Melburnians in the rooftop carpark of a Prahran Woolworths, and went to the Whitsundays with almost 100 Aussies in 2019. Elsewhere, he's photographed the public painted red and gold outside Munich's Bavarian State Opera, covered in veils in the Nevada desert and covered in blue in Hull in the UK. The list goes on. Wondering why Tunick amassed at least 2500 volunteers this time? That exact number of participants reflects the 2500-plus Aussies who pass away each year due to skin cancer. "With Australia recording the highest number of deadly skin cancers in the world every year, it made sense to host this monumental public awareness campaign in a city that has so many people at risk," said Scott Maggs, CEO and founder of Skin Check Champions. "Beach life is synonymous with Australian culture, but it's also where a lot of skin cancers can start... We need to send a clear message that skin cancer is real, and it can be stopped in its tracks if more people get their skin checked." Strip Off for Skin Cancer took place on Saturday, November 26 at Bondi Beach. Head to the installation's website for further information. Images: Drew Lambert.
It's impossible to think about Christmas without also thinking about ornament-adorned trees; however, the traditional towering variety isn't always practical. Perhaps you don't have space in your apartment. Maybe you're keen on the real thing, but just can't make it to market, farm or nursery to get one. Or, you could have a four-legged friend (or several) that's fond of scaling anything that reaches up into the sky. Even if you've found a place for the same old plastic tree that you trot out every year, you're probably still wishing that you could gaze up at the real thing — which is where Floraly comes in. The Australian plant delivery service focuses on sustainable blooms and even offers monthly subscriptions, and it introduced a Christmas offering in 2019. Because it's that time again, it's getting festive once more in 2021, too. The big drawcard: living trees. If you're happy with a pint-sized version, then this tiny plant is about to make your festive dreams come true. 'Tis the season to order a 50–60-centimetre-tall tiny tree that comes with decorations and a pop-up pot, wait for it to be delivered, then feel mighty jolly. Sourced from farms in Victoria and New South Wales, and able to be sent Australia-wide, Floraly's trees also arrive with soil, fairy lights, baubles and a tree-topper — so they really do look like miniature versions of your ideal Christmas centrepiece. There are two versions available, so you can opt for red baubles and a gold star for the top, or go with white decorations and a silver star In line with Floraly's eco-conscious mindset, its trees still have their root system intact. That means that once Christmas is over, you can replant them, keep them for some year-round merriment and then enjoy their splendour next year. The trees also come in fully recyclable packaging, further reducing their environmental impact. If you're keen, you can order a small bundle of greenery from the Floraly website for $79–85. Fancy sending a tiny tree as a gift? You can do that too, including as part of packs with wine, beer, candles, skin care products, champagne and chocolate. Floraly's tiny Christmas trees are available to order now by visiting the service's website.
There's something novel about soaking in a tub with no wall in front of you, no roof above you, and no worries if anyone will spoil the moment (or see you naked). It's romantic, relaxing, and the unfamiliar nature of bathing outdoors can be, lets face it, kind of exciting. This is especially true when your bath is paired with a glass of red and the knowledge that there's a roaring fire waiting for you inside the architecturally designed house you've found yourself in. So, to make your outdoor-bath dreams a reality, we've rounded up the most enviable houses in Australia that have particularly unique outdoor-bathing scenarios. Whether you fancy relaxing in a private Japanese bathhouse, a rustic metal tub perched on a farm's timber deck, or want to stargaze from a spa-bath in a mountain cave, we've got you covered. Read on for our top stays with next-level outdoor baths across Australia. Recommended reads: The Best Glamping Sites in Australia The Best Glamping Sites in New Zealand The Best Dog-Friendly Hotels in Australia Liptrap Loft, Walkerville, Victoria This design-minded house combines Japanese architecture with rustic charm — it boasts a one-of-a-kind sunken indoor-outdoor Japanese bath in a traditional bathhouse that opens up to views of the surrounding property. From $406 a night, sleeps six. Wensley, Wensleydale, Victoria Built from recycled oregon and ironbark, this bespoke timber, architectural shed-like house is a bath-lovers paradise, with a deep indoor bath inside amongst the immaculately styled interiors, and a rustic metal bath on the wrap-around timber deck, perfect for cooling off on balmy evenings. From $995 a night, sleeps ten. Soul Wood Luxury Coast Cabin, Termeil, New South Wales Wake up to views of the bushland from this wooden tiny house. The dreamy outdoor bathtub is surrounded by tall native trees that will have you feeling completely immersed in the natural surroundings. From $300 a night, sleeps two. Woodlands Retreat, Porongurup, Western Australia Not a bath per-se, but the views this jacuzzi boasts earned itself an honourable mention. Just imagine sipping champagne with your pals and looking out over that deck submerged in steaming bubbly water, then slipping on a fluffy maroon robe to finish off the night — yes, please. From $438 a night, sleeps four. Stargazer, Beechmont, Queensland This property is enviable in every way, including a secluded location, cohesive architectural design, and a wood fire pizza oven for your entertaining needs. To top it all off, the uniquely positioned bath looks over the far-reaching countryside, taking your R&R weekend to the next level. From $278 a night, sleeps six. Secluded Studio, Byron Bay, New South Wales A designer retreat for two, complete with a glass-walled bathroom, secluded garden terrace and roomy outdoor tub to wash the salt off from a day spent in the sun and surf — it's a true hidden oasis, just minutes from the beach. From $400 a night, sleeps two. Boutique Retreat, Suffolk Park, New South Wales A cheery self-contained, beautifully styled apartment that's sure to win you over with its plush linens, palm-filled courtyard and massive pink stone outdoor tub for some quality soaking, drinking and reading. From $275 a night, sleeps two. The Enchanted Cave, Bilpin, New South Wales An actual clifftop cave, this unique couples' retreat is like something plucked from a storybook. Relax while enjoying dreamy views across the treetops from the large glass doors that open out from a deep spa bath. From $1140 a night, sleeps two. Seven Sisters Escarpment Views, Medlow Bath, New South Wales Tandem baths anyone? This mountaintop cottage feels worlds away from reality, especially when taking in the views from one of two gorgeous outdoor bathtubs. Be sure to cook dinner from the bush garden and cozy up in front of the wood fire on cooler nights. From $340 a night, sleeps four. Kestrel Nest Ecohut, Mount Adrahm New South Wales Halfway between Sydney and Melbourne, this eco-hut is nestled above a rocky mountain stream on the edge of rolling farmland and a conservation area. It features an outdoor bathtub, a fireplace and firepit, and a charming mix of timber and tiled interiors. From $460 a night, sleeps four. All photos courtesy of Airbnb. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Set above a Chinese noodle spot in Haymarket's Prince Centre, Passage Gallery's round-the-clock space is now exhibiting renowned Australian artist Patricia Piccinini's latest piece, Centrifugal Love Garden. Inspired by a recent visit to a Melbourne stem cell lab, this work offers a kinetic glimpse of a harmonious future, where hybrid forms that aren't quite natural or synthetic symbiotically co-exist. Having long explored science, technology, bio-ethics and an uncertain path forward in her celebrated work, Piccinini has taken a new direction with this piece, adding a propulsive sense of movement. Here, a surreal collection of forms draws from what researchers call 'organoids' — miniaturised, simplified organs suspended in fluid. Artificial yet composed of nature, this duality is what attracted Piccinini to look more closely. To reflect this notion in the installation, Piccinini has created a series of hair works that oscillate from above, referencing not only the colourless organoids, but also the hairy creatures that often appear in Piccinini's work. Meanwhile, a group of stylised birds, based on Antarctic penguins, huddle together to ensure their survival. Another character, Ghost, blurs the boundary between organic and mechanical. On display until Friday, May 8, Centrifugal Love Garden offers a strangely optimistic outlook, where — in the eternal words of Dr Ian Malcolm — life, uh, finds a way. "This work is at home in a world that acknowledges 'naturalised technology'; a world where technology is so seamlessly integrated into everything that it is impossible to see when nature ends, and the artificial begins," says Piccinini. "This is certainly the world of the organoid." Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox.
Sydney has been waiting patiently for the opening of its second international airport for over a decade now — but now, seven months away from its projected opening date for commercial flights, a key piece to the Western Sydney Airport puzzle is caught between a dispute and a hard place, as first reported by the Sydney Morning Herald. The airport site, located in Badgery's Creek, is planned to be connected to the wider Sydney Metropolitan area through multiple transport arteries. For drivers, the brand new M12 Motorway will connect to the existing M7 via a direct line to the airport. That's due to open this coming weekend, but public transport is a different story. The airport is due to be included in Sydney's expanding metro lines, with a projected December 2027 opening date, but as SMH reports, that's now in limbo. [caption id="attachment_1082387" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - OCTOBER 28: A general view of the passenger terminal under final construction at Western Sydney International Airport on October 28, 2025 in Sydney, Australia. Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI), located at Badgerys Creek (Photo by James D. Morgan/Getty Images)[/caption] The 23 kilometre line is planned to connect the airport to Sydney via St Marys, Orchard Hills, Luddenham and the new city of Bradfield in a mix of tunnels, open tracks and viaduct — but Sydney Metro warns the opening date now hinges on the outcomes of a major negotiation with the contractors that's been ongoing since 2024, and threatens to extend the cost by an additional $2.2 billion — drawing the total cost to $12 billion for taxpayers. Said contractors are a consortium known as Parklife Metro — which is comprised of Italian construction group Webuild, the German-based multinational technology company Siemens, an international arm of French-state-owned public transport enterprise RATP and Australian infrastructure investors Plenary Group. The disputes? Claims have been filed against the NSW Government body overseeing the project regarding delays, scope creep and disruptions. [caption id="attachment_1082386" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Sydney Metro carriage, Photo by Ma Ping/Xinhua via Getty Images[/caption] Now the project, which has already been delayed by a year and remains in the construction phase, is at the mercy of the negotiations. Sydney Metro Executive Chief Peter Regan said at a budgetary hearing that "the outcome of that negotiation will clearly impact the target date for opening. We're still in the construction phase of the railway. We're not in the testing phase, so it's probably too early to really sort of land that [target opening date], and it will depend on the outcome of that commercial discussion." To compensate for the delays, which will see the airport operational for well over a year with no rail connection, the NSW Government has confirmed that free bus services will run between St Mary's and the airport, at an estimated 30-minute commute time. SMH also confirmed that the carriages for the new lines are due to arrive in the coming months, and the lines themselves could still be expanded to connect the airport with Sydney Metro's northernmost station at Tallawong, and via a southern line to Bradfield. Images: Getty Images Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these in your inbox.
Lune's croissants are the stuff of culinary legend, spoken about with such breathless reverence that it's little wonder on its opening weekend, the bakery's first Sydney outpost was inundated by hundreds of Sydneysiders, who stood in line for hours to get their hands on one of the eight signature and four seasonal treats on offer. Be warned, however, after patiently queuing for your chance to bite into one of the world's most coveted baked goods, you may be stricken by choice paralysis. Sure, you could go HAM (and gruyere) and buy one of everything, but with a cost of living crisis still clutching at our collective purse strings, this pastry-palooza is likely beyond most budgets. To help you navigate the delights that Lune has finally gifted Sydney, we visited the new Rosebery croissanterie to taste and rate all its wares. Here's what we made of Lune's eight always-on classic pastries — ranked. 8: The Croissant It takes a team of chefs — who train for a year to be worthy of entering Lune's trademark temperature-controlled, glass-enclosed kitchens — three days to prepare the butter-enriched puff that is the foundation of all Lune's pastries. While a plain scroll may not offer much variety of flavour, the interplay of textures found in Lune's OG bake is what makes it the king of croissants. A delicate, paper-thin shell, glossy and lightly glazed, offers a pleasing crunch that immediately gives way to a pillow-soft interior with just the right balance of density and lightness. The all-important butter, sourced from Northern French dairy Isigny Saint-Mère, is painstakingly laminated between each layer of pastry to give this croissant a rich creaminess that's hard to fault. However, we suggest you enjoy it with a good-quality jam or preserve, rather than au naturale. 7: The Morning Bun Ostensibly a cinnamon scroll, albeit made from puff pastry, the addition of brown sugar and orange zest offers a hint of breakfast to this otherwise decadent bun. The outer layers of pastry become coated in crystalised sugar in the oven, while the cinnamon and spice within retain a delightful fudginess. A word of caution: this is one for the sweet tooths. If you'd rather not start your day with dessert, the Morning Bun may not be the best addition to your breakfast table. 6: Lemon Curd Cruffin Perhaps the most impressive feat of Lune's various bakes is the judicious restraint and careful balance of flavours, always hitting the bullseye between too much and not enough. The Lemon Curd Cruffin, however, is an outlier in this respect. An almost too-generous dollop of house-made lemon curd bursts from within with the first bite. A liberal dusting of caster sugar sands down the edges of this cheek-tightening tartness, creating a satisfying tug-o-war between the sweet and sour, but this bold sucker punch of flavours may be more than some breakfast-seekers bargain for. 5: Ham and Gruyere Croissant As mentioned above, balance is a hallmark of Lune's creations and this is certainly true of the first savoury bake in these rankings. Unlike the sandwich-style ham and cheese croissants you'll find in most high street cafes, Lune bakes the eponymous ingredients into the scroll, allowing the fat and salt of the ham and cheese to infuse the pastry with even greater depth of flavour. Because a croissant is already laden with fat from butter, the amount of Swiss gruyere and shaved leg ham used at Lune, both sourced from Melbourne's Hagens Organics, could seem a little on the stingy side. However, those fears are quickly assuaged once you take a bite, and the salty edge of the molten gruyere and tinge of sweetness from the ham meld with the rich, rounded finish of the puff. 4: Pain au Chocolat Another key to Lune's success is the uncompromising calibre of the ingredients used. One of just 15 official partners worldwide, Lune's pain au chocolat features Valrhona chocolate, sourced from France. Given its higher than average sugar content, not much chocolate is needed to flavour Lune's take on this popular breakfast treat. Whereas some lesser versions lean too heavily on the filling, creating more of a chocolat au pain, Lune is careful to keep the spotlight firmly fixed on its extraordinary pastry, with a subtler yet still essential use of chocolate. 3: Vegemite and Cheese Scroll Full disclosure: I am not a fan of Vegemite. So it was quite a surprise to not only tolerate this pastry but really love it. Again, this all comes down to the precision of flavour, which given the pungent extremes of Australia's national spread is no mean feat. Rather than slathering it on straight from the jar, Lune goes to the trouble of mellowing it with a béchamel sauce. The addition of the Swiss gruyere creates a flawless combination of saltiness, sweetness and umami that even the most ardent Vegemite hater will gladly gobble up. 2: Almond Croissant Twice baked to ensure the croissant isn't overly saturated by the almond frangipane, Lune's virtuosic take on the original Croissant aux Amandes uses the addition of almond meal and a punky mohawk of flaked almond slices to amp up the earthy, rich nuttiness that is so often overwhelmed by sweetness. The richness of the dough, the rustic quality of the frangipane and the expert balance of flavours make this, by quite some margin, the best almond croissant I've ever tasted. 1: Kouign Amann There's a good chance that you've never heard of this traditional pastry from the Bretagne region of France: a puff pastry wheel laminated with sugar and baked in a mould lined with butter, sugar and salt, until saturated and caramelised. I'll admit, before my trip to Lune, I hadn't either. However, this sticky, syrupy, disk of golden, glazed joy will be living rent-free in my mind for the foreseeable future. This is an example of how the simplest list of ingredients can be turned into something truly transformative in the right hands. It's sweet, but not overly saccharine, chewy but with a crème brûlée-esque outer shell, delicate yet rich — a magic trick that is far greater than the sum of its parts. Pro tips for visiting Lune Rosebery Expect to queue — no matter what day it is Even at 7.30am on a Wednesday, I had to wait in line for 45 minutes before reaching the counter, and that wait time considerably increases at the weekend peak. Almost as impressive as the pastries themselves is the rapid-fire yet always friendly service of the Lune team, who take turns taking orders in quick succession to keep things moving as swiftly as possible. It's a well-oiled machine, but lines at Lune are inevitable — sure, the Lune-acy in Sydney may be at its maximum right now, given how recently the bakery opened, but the lines that continue to snake down the street at Lune's Fitzroy outpost in Melbourne are a good indication that the Harbour City's croissant craze is unlikely to wane any time soon. Don't set your heart on anything While Lune produces croissants in their thousands every day, there is no guarantee that after your lengthy wait in line, the exact bake you're craving will be available. Fortunately, there isn't a dud among them so even if your first preference is sold out, you'll still be leaving with a world-class pastry in hand. Check out the seasonal bakes While the classics are a must-try collection, Lune's rotating seasonal varieties are some of their most creative, intriguing and delicious bakes. So be sure to save some room for them after you're done scoffing the signatures. If you need help choosing, just ask the staff The Lune service team are impressively well-versed in the provenance of the produce, the details of the cooking techniques and the history of the business, so if you have any burning questions, you'll find answers quickly and with a smile. Come for croissants, stay for the coffee With beans roasted by Marrickville's Ona, Lune brews a mean cup of joe. And nothing goes better with a freshly baked breakfast pastry than a good coffee. Find Lune Croissanterie at 115/151 Dunning Ave, Rosebery, open from December 7. For more details visit the Lune Rosebery website.
You work hard, you play hard and gosh you should get to relax hard too —and what better way to do that than with a healthy dose of luxury down at one of the best day spas in Sydney? Kicking around in a comfy robe, being pampered like a boss and having all the time in the world to enjoy yourself, stress-free. Well, that idyllic image is an easy one to tap into, since the city is home to a vast array of top-notch spa destinations — often found in some of Sydney's best hotels. Whatever your budget, skin type, or go-to massage style, there's a luxurious Sydney spa treatment for you right near the CBD. Go get your glow on and thank us after you've found your inner peace. Recommended reads: The Best Natural Hot Springs to Visit in New South Wales The Best Luxury Getaways from Sydney The Best Sydney Date Ideas The Best Heated Pools in Sydney CROWN SPA AT CROWN TOWER, BARANGAROO Head into the huge Crown Tower in Barangaroo, bypass the lavish dining options a'Mare and Nobu, and head up the elevator to discover one of the best spas in Sydney. Whether you're looking for a facial, nail service, wellness service or a massage, you'll find it here with a heavy dose of luxury. What really elevates the Crown Spa experience is the attention to detail and the wellness journey each guest is taken on. If you're after a massage, you'll be treated to access to the sauna, 360-degree shower and spa bath. This also means you can squeeze a massage into a workday and freshen up afterwards. Your boss will be none the wiser. THE DAY SPA AT THE LANGHAM, SYDNEY CBD There's a whole stack of reasons why you should treat yourself to a stay at The Langham. First off, the indoor pool looks like it's straight out of a Roman cinematic epic and The Day Spa is no less impressive. Embracing the motto of 'detox, renew, relax and rejuvenate', this luxe Sydney spa offers the full range of luxurious treatments, which, as expected, come at a very luxurious price. Choose from a variety of standalone facials and massages, or really settle in with a multi-treatment package — like the Velvet Experience, an all-inclusive three-hour session that includes a body exfoliation, full-body massage and tailored facial treatment. If you're keen to go all out, it's priced at $490 from Monday–Thursday (or $510 from Friday–Sunday). It's the ultimate way to enjoy one of the best spas in Sydney. SOL SPA, VAUCLUSE A plant-filled Sydney restaurant serving up locally sourced health food and dotted with millennial pink armchairs is nothing unusual — but the fact that The Botanica Vaucluse also has one of the best day spas in Sydney really takes these trends to a new level. The Sol Spa, that sits adjacent to its sister restaurant, is up there among Sydney's more opulent experiences. Therapists at the Sydney spa use aromatic oils and herbs to revitalise guests, while facials and massages are accompanied by holistic treatments, plus detoxifying and antioxidant therapies. You might re-energise that skin with a 45-minute natural mineral body scrub ($95), destress with a spot of facial acupressure ($95), or treat weary muscles to a full-body nourishing treatment ($180). For some full-blown indulgence, look no further than the menu of blissful spa packages, starting from $225. When you're done with your luxury spa experience in Sydney, pop over to the restaurant for a fab feed. GILLIAN ADAMS SALON & SPA, TURRAMURRA Gillian Adams services the high-end pampering needs of the lower north shore with its unique aquamedic pool, steam room, treatment rooms, restaurant, and cutting-edge hair and beauty salon. The luxury Sydney spa's classic facial — that includes a tailored skin consultation and a series of rejuvenating treatments — will set you back $170. At the other end of the spectrum, a truly luxe L'Escape Voyage package features a pool, steam and vichy shower session, aromatherapy massage, facial, manicure, pedicure, scalp ritual, blow wave and gourmet lunch, all spread out over more than seven hours ($950). Or you can simply mix and match your way to total relaxation, picking from a broad selection of bathing rituals, massages, body treatments and more. Choose your own lavish adventure at one of the best spas in Sydney. [caption id="attachment_847463" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] DARLING SPA, PYRMONT Boasting a raft of awards, it's not hard to see why The Darling Spa is considered one of the best spas in Sydney. Not only is it home to 11 treatment rooms, a steam room, Moroccan Hammam chamber and two opulent couples' suites, but the Pyrmont venue also offers an extensive range of therapies that prove well worth the splurge. The entry-level facial costs $220 and the treatments quickly go north from there — but so too does the quality. Treat yourself to a balancing full-body massage (from $215), or perhaps surrender to an indulgent three-hour package that includes a full-body exfoliation, body wrap, scalp massage, hand and foot treatment and facial for $600. SOFITEL SPA, DARLING HARBOUR In 2023, the Darling Harbour outpost of global hotel chain Sofitel unveiled its lavish new two-storey spa, delivering a fresh dose of relaxation high among the Sydney skyline. Joining the ranks of some of Sydney's best spas, and pairing its relaxation experiences with sweeping water views, the Sofitel SPA Darling Harbour offers an array of facilities and wellness journeys — all housed within a "quintessentially Sydney" space. Soft timbers, sandstone and marble finishes welcome guests into the latest addition to the Harbour City's wellness scene, which boasts seven roomy treatment spaces. Also on offer: a bespoke standalone bathtub with harbour views, an infrared sauna, a meditation zone and a contemplation deck sitting on level four of the hotel. This is where you really, really treat yourself in Sydney. NATURE'S ENERGY BALMAIN BATHHOUSE, BALMAIN Nature's Energy's Balmain bathhouse is your destination for a complete head-to-toe pamper session. At this Sydney spa, you can melt into a therapeutic massage, try an alternative healing treatment and soak away your cares in a hot bath — all under one roof. And you can preface any treatment with an indulgent bathhouse experience, enjoying a 39-degree bubble spa, toxin-releasing sauna and the eucalyptus-infused heat of the steam room. Then it's onto the likes of a deep tissue massage (from $90 for 30 minutes) or a blissful spa package — like the aptly named Journey of Tranquility, which features an energising body scrub and back massage, followed by a 45-minute organic facial and calming quartz eye treatment ($350). KARPATI MEDISPA, DOUBLE BAY Located in Double Bay in Sydney's east, Karpati Medispa has been winning over locals with its private, luxury Sydney spa experiences for more than 30 years. Beyond the full catalogue of soothing body treatments, spa massages and reshaping therapies, Karpati's signature services run to a range of restorative and clinical rituals that are both environmentally friendly and free from nasty chemicals. A classic stress-relieving, 30-minute back, neck and shoulder massage comes in at $95, while the hour-long therapeutic medical massage with personalised consultation will melt away your tension for $225. Or you might fancy whiling away a few hours with one of the treatment combos, that start at $155. SPAQ AT QT SYDNEY, CBD QT Sydney is known for its decadent hotel rooms and bold aesthetics, and it's safe to say its day spa is no different. The signature SpaQ within the Market Street hotel is a dark, moody oasis that's the perfect spot to escape reality for an afternoon — perhaps with an energising body peel ($195) or one of four 90-minute Femme Fatale facial treatments (from $205). At this Sydney day spa, there's a range of de-stressing massages, a swag of different facial therapies and plenty of multi-treatment packages for those wanting to really settle in for a day of relaxation. And afterward, you can continue your withdrawal from the real world with champagne and oysters in the hotel bar. Because, why not? VENUSTUS BEAUTY AND BODY LAB, PADDINGTON Walking along Oxford Street, it's hard to miss the stunning sanctuary that is Venustus Beauty and Body Lab. The renowned Paddington spa boasts a serene, nurturing space, and a treatment menu that pulls inspiration and wellbeing techniques from across the globe. Venustus offers a hefty range of therapies, running from the likes of the personalised hour-long Intuitive Facial ($353) to a lymphatic-boosting full body massage ($444). And if you want to truly indulge, you can opt for the ultimate personalised treatment, dubbed the Sacred Priestess Healing ($888) — a two and a half hour-long session involving a highly personalised massage and facial. The Sydney spa experience also involves calling in our ancestors – the sacred wise women, healers and priestesses of the past – to help you connect with the source of goddess energy. All this positive energy helps it get on the list of best day spa experiences in Sydney. Top image: Sofitel SPA Darling Harbour
If you're looking for ways to spoil the leading lady in your life (either Mum or another mother figure), we're here to help. Let's face it, your local pizza joint doesn't quite cut it (unless it's Bella Brutta) and the decibels at your favourite hole-in-the-wall ramen shop might be a little too high to allow for a meaningful chat. This is your chance to deliver something memorable, and earn some serious brownie points on the side. This Mother's Day, take your mum out for a long boozy brunch, high tea, or an exceptional dinner at some of our city's best and parent-friendly establishments. You've got enough selection anxiety on your hands with choosing a present, so we've picked out our favourite mum-worthy spots. These are the best Mother's Day restaurants, bars and cafes in Sydney. The Grounds of Alexandria, Alexandria After all those late nights you thrust upon your parents, the least you can do is rise a little early to avoid the lines at The Grounds of Alexandria. The cafe's buttermilk pancakes will rival mum's finest offerings and a Grounds coffee will probably beat anything you were thinking of brewing at home. Nothing says "thank you for tolerating me all these years" quite like an enchanted high tea at The Grounds leafy oasis, where you can enjoy poached lobster choux with créme fraîche and caviar, a decadent passionfruit and mango cremeux, or a truffled mushroom and onion tarlet. Nour, Surry Hills Want to take Mum to a buzzing Surry Hills space serving contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine? Nour's menu mixes tried-and-true classics with bold experimentations — pairing glazed lamb shoulder with smoked mussels on a falafel crumpet, for example. On Mother's Day, the pastel-hued, airy restaurant is serving a special set menu for $129 per person. For the special occasion, there will be chicken bits shawarma, charcoal octopus skewers, woodfired haloumi, twice-cooked baharat duck and a woodfired coconut basbousa with custard and ice cream for dessert. You both deserve that kind of feast on a Sunday. Misc, Parramatta Out west, spoil mum with an unforgettable Mediterranean spread within the heart of Parramatta Park at the expansive and sleek Misc. The impressive 300-seat venue is the work of Executive Chef Sebastian Geray, collaborator Joel Bennetts and restaurateur Jad Nehmetallah (whom you may recognise from Gogglebox). Swing by on the big day for Misc's special-edition set menu that's designed to be shared, with plenty of sliced charcuterie, dips and buttery woodfired bread, followed by crumbed chicken cutlets or a gnocchi alfredo, with tiramisu for dessert. Not a bad way to spoil Mum on her big day. The Fullerton Hotel, Sydney Want to treat your mum to a stylish high tea with great service? Look no further than The Fullerton Hotel. The lavish dining room is slick, leafy and spacious. The sophisticated setting is the perfect spot to spoil Mum with a luxe dining experience in one of Sydney's most stunning venues. This year, the afternoon offering, available throughout the Mother's Day weekend, is in partnership with Martin Place jewellery brand Calleija. The decadent bites are based on lavender colours and gems, including sweet treats like London fog verrine and vanilla cassis roulade, alongside savoury snacks like chicken and pumpkin ballotine, smoked salmon sandwiches, and potted shrimps and egg. Bookings start at $90 per person, and can be upgraded to include flutes of Veuve Clicquot. The Bob Hawke Leisure Centre and Lucky Prawn, Marrickville This is the place to book if you're after more casual dining. And don't worry, Mum will definitely approve — paired with a cold pint, she'll be treated to a range of Asian-fusion and retro Australiana delights that subvert her expectations. For the occasion, the team has put together a 'Mum Cha' menu that will please anyone and their mums. Expect steamed scallops with ginger, dim sum, prawn toast and decadent, deep-fried Viennetta. To boost the inevitable income of brownie points, you can pre-order bubbles, flowers and special Hawke's merchandise that will already be on your table when you arrive, showing Mum that you take her special day very, very seriously. Sinclair's, Penrith For riverside dining, book a spot at Sinclair's in Sydney's West. Penrith's sophisticated restaurant pairs serene scenes of the Nepean River with quality modern Australian eats. For Mother's Day, the Sinclair's team has continued to do what they best: showcase produce from the Nepean Valley and Blue Mountains for some truly divine flavours. For just under $100 per person, you can treat Mum to luxury dining with the expansive venue's Mother's Day menu. The celebratory spread includes Sonoma sourdough with beef fat butter and Katoomba honey; confit Windsor duck croustade with local quince; and iron bark-smoked Arcadia chicken with green romesco and wild grains; along with a glass of complimentary sparkling on arrival. Four Hundred Bar & Kitchen, North Sydney Take Mum to a bottomless brunch for a fiesta worthy of her special day. Four Hundred Bar & Kitchen — North Sydney's sunlight-filled venue — is offering a bottomless bonus on its usual Mexican fare to celebrate the lucky lady. This two-hour booking will have you working through a delicious arrangement of Mexican share plates and bottomless margs and spritzes. And to give Mum a pleasant surprise, add a fresh custom flower bouquet to your booking to personalise your table and put a smile on her face. The Old Fitzroy Hotel, Woolloomooloo Expect The Old Fitz to be busy on Mother's Day. That doesn't mean you should avoid it — there's plenty of room, just make sure to book early. Run by the hospitality experts at Odd Culture Group, this lively pub boasts a sophisticated food offering focused on French cuisine. Soak up the sunshine from The Old Fitz's breezy outdoor seating or leafy, sunlit bistro as you sip your way through cold bevs — plus, the outpost is very dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your beloved pooch along, too. For eats, the Mother's Day menu stars its usual French-Australian staples, from the baguette and lamb scrumpet to the roast carrot salad, alongside a hefty Sunday roast featuring crackling pork belly and slow-roasted squash. Casa Esquina, Balmain Balmain residents, here's a venue that's a guaranteed a home run. Casa Esquina's gorgeous outdoor dining paired with its laidback Argentinian menu makes it arguably one of the top spots for spending some quality time with mum this year. The restaurant's set four-course menu will alleviate the stress of choosing, with dishes such as snapper ceviche, smoked cauliflower pasta, and braised lamb shoulder with tomatillo and coriander salsa. Botanic House, CBD If your mum has a love for greenery and doesn't fancy straying from the inner city, her ideal dining destination has to be Botanic House, tucked away inside Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden. With a tasting menu crafted by celebrated chef Luke Nguyen, diners are set for a real treat. Dishes include beef skewers with cucumber, snow fungus and Asian chimichurri, alongside lemon myrtle chicken with jelly fish, cabbage and Asian herbs salad. With a glass of Mumm Marlborough Brut on arrival and a decadent coconut cake with pandan, sorbet and sticky rice for dessert, the $140 per person price tag seems worth the expenditure. Manly Pavilion, Manly Raise a glass to the most important woman — or women — in your life with Manly Pavilion's gorgeous waterfront view as a backdrop. If Mum is located in Sydney's north and getting her across The Spit is a tough sell, this waterside spot is a crowd-pleaser. Indulge in a fragrant Garden Spritz or bottle of Chandon Blac de Blancs as you soak up the stunning surrounds. This specially-curated luncheon will span three tasty courses and will also include a complimentary family portrait photographed by Iris & Me photography. [caption id="attachment_786069" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Robert Walsh[/caption] Infinity at Sydney Tower, CBD Make this Mother's Day unforgettable by treating Mum to a dinner that she wouldn't ordinarily treat herself to. Take quality time to the next level — about 81 floors up, specifically — at Infinity inside Sydney Tower, with an ultra-luxe dinner that'll shower Mum with gifts throughout. From a welcome glass of Mumm Grand Cordon to a live jazz band playing ambient tunes and an exclusive box of tempting truffles, Mum is guaranteed to feel absolutely spoilt with Infinity's limited-time offering. [caption id="attachment_996107" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Serhat Karakas[/caption] Kolkata Social, Newtown Kolkata Social is all about Bengali cuisine, so if Mum wants a bit of a kick in her feast, this is your spot. Kolkata's menu is all about home cooking, and the Mother's Day set menu looks to follow suit with a range of traditional, unapologetically Indian dishes for $75 per person. You'll find no butter chicken or cheese and garlic naan here, but it's a fantastic choice for those who dabble in adventurous dining. St Siandra, Mosman Add a little extra sunshine to Mother's Day with a celebratory meal at the vibrant St Siandra. Sitting right on the water, Mosman's inviting venue takes cues from costal European summers, donning a sunny fit-out and spectacular waterfront views. Pair the restaurant's bright decor with a Mediterranean-inspired sharing menu led by Head Chef Sam McCallum, and you've secured one of the best Mother's Day itineraries. St Siandra's four-course menu will feature staple items like the soft potato flatbread with tahini; roast chicken with pearl onion, radicchio and jus gras; and beef cheek with almond, leeks and medjool dates. Plus, the menu can be amended to include vegetarian and kid-friendly options. Top image: Manly Pavilion
As the mercury dips and the winter chill begins to bite, your enthusiasm for a night on the town might well be replaced by a deep craving to slip on your tracky dacks, pull up your doona and settle in for a low-effort evening of binge watching and home delivery. However, if there's one thing we know is worth braving the cold for, it's cosy beers in front of a roaring fire. Live out your Hemingway-by-the-hearth fantasy as you relax in a room filled with warmth and the sound of crackling wood, drink in hand, at the best bars and pubs with fireplaces in Sydney.
Based at the corner of Flinders Street and Moore Park Road, The Captain is just a ten-minute walk to Sydney Cricket Ground, making it an excellent spot to head for a drink before or after a game. In fact, its proximity to such sacred sporting ground provides a buzzing atmosphere regardless of whether there's a match on. [caption id="attachment_798605" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] Happy hour deals are available on weekdays between 4–6pm with $5 beer and wine and $10 espresso martinis and Aperol spritzes. Food-wise, expect elevated pub fare — think king prawn and pea arancini, steak frites and a wagyu burger. And, on Sundays, it does an Italian-style roast dinner with a glass of chianti for $30 per person. Images: Cassandra Hannagan
The best glamping sites in Australia are made for those of us who want to get up close to nature — without having to skimp on any of our comforts. We want to hear the sounds of local wildlife rummaging about nearby. We want to smell the native plants and sea air as we wake up. But we also want running hot water, aircon (if the season calls for it) and quality bedding. Room service never hurts, either. So, if you're looking for a holiday that provides all of the above, read on. Here we have some of Australia's best glamping sites, located in some of the most unique and beautiful natural landscapes — from remote deserts to lush rainforests and tropical islands. Recommended reads: The Best Glamping Sites in NSW The Best Glamping Sites in Victoria The Best Glamping Sites in Queensland The Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Australia Nightfall, Queensland Set within Queensland's Lamington National Park is the luxury glamping site Nightfall. There's only four permanent, hand-built tents on the property, each spaced far enough apart to give visitors the feeling of total isolation. In summer, you can roll up the canvas walls to immerse yourself in the surrounding forest — native birds gather in treetops and the nearby Christmas Creek is perfect for a little swim. You can even choose to bathe outside in nature, without the fear of anyone walking past. For winter, keep the walls down, have a hot bath inside, turn on the rotating fireplace and get proper cosy. The Nightfall team will also feed you throughout your stay — they pride themselves on providing organic meals, focusing on food cooked over the fire. Each daily meal is served in a different location, taking full advantage of the vast forest surrounding your glampsite. Produce is sourced from the onsite kitchen garden, wild Aussie bush tucker plants, the local farms of Scenic Rim and organic markets in Brisbane. Sustainability is at the core of everything done here, helping make this one of the best places to go glamping in Australia. Discovery Rottnest Island, Western Australia Rottnest Island is a must-see for anyone going on an adventure in Western Australia. For one, this is where you'll snuggle up to quokkas and take all the adorable selfies you could want. But there's a lot more going on here too, including an array of stunning white sandy beaches and hidden coves. And we can think of no better way to experience this island paradise, just off the shores of Perth, than by hitting up the Discovery Rottnest Island glamping site. These low-impact tents are set amongst the dunes of Pinky Beach, right by the water. The entry-level options have ensuites and private decks, while the larger ones have their own kitchens, walk-in robes and extra-large bathrooms. From this beachside location, you can go on sea-kayaking treks, do a bit of snorkelling, head inland for some hiking or just sit on the shoreline all day long, dipping in and out of the clear blue waters at your own leisure. [caption id="attachment_874857" align="alignnone" width="1920"] South Australian Tourism Commission[/caption] Wilpena Pound, South Australia This is far more than your usual glamping site. Yes, the natural surrounds are truly epic in scale and your luxury tents come with all your creature comforts, but Wilpena Pound has a special ethos that respects the traditional landowners of the Flinders Ranges region — the Adnyamathanha people. The area is known for its geological history, ancient fossils and Aboriginal rock art. And the team here works closely with local Indigenous communities to educate guests about the cultural significance of the land they're on. During your stay, you can go on an Aboriginal cultural tour of the area, led by an Adnyamathanha guide. You'll be taken on a hike through the Flinders Ranges, experiencing the landscape through the eyes of its Traditional Owners. The Wilpena team can also organise a 4WD tour, scenic flight or another stellar jaunt through the bush. Meals combine modern Aussie cuisine with Indigenous ingredients — all prepared with genuine respect for the Adnyamathanha people. It's not just for show. Sal Salis, Western Australia This is where the desert meets the sea — an extraordinary and unique part of Australia that should be on all travel bucket lists. There are a range of accommodations dotted along the Ningaloo Reef, but Sal Salis is just that bit extra special. The 16 off-grid wilderness tents are located right on the beach, surrounded by little else but untamed nature. Swing in your hammock all day long, gazing into your stupid-beautiful views with an ice-cold beer at hand, or get exploring. The Sal Salis team will help you out with sea kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, snorkel gear and wetsuits. They'll even take you out for some guided experiences. This is an all-inclusive Australian glamping site, too — activities galore and drinks from the open bar are yours to enjoy. There's not a single need to hold back here. Happy Glamper, Victoria This is a really unique glamping experience: you pick your own campsite along Victoria's Mornington Peninsula and the Happy Glamper team will set everything up for you right there. Arriving before you, they'll install one of their large canvas tents, which comes with a bed, lounge chairs, board games, magazines and a spread of other things. And when you're done, they'll pack it all down and clean up — lush. The mobile glamping company even helps with big gatherings — if you make a big, multi-tent booking, the team's willing to go far beyond their usual patch in the Mornington Peninsula. Either head to a beachside campground or a block of private land, and your bespoke experience will appear. The fine print? You'll need to book your campsite separately — either find your own or opt for one of the recommended sites. Paperbark Camp, New South Wales The definition of 'tent' is stretched a little bit at Paperbark Camp. These canopies rest up on large wooden stilts and are surrounded by private decks. Technically, the rooms do have canvas walls, so tents they are. Each of the NSW glamping sites comes with an open-air ensuite bathroom, complete with a freestanding bath and separate shower. It's mightily luxurious. Plus, there's stacks of things to do in the area. The property has a series of trails through the namesake paperbark, gum and mangrove forests, where plenty of kangaroos roam. You can cycle into town within 15 minutes and hang out at the beach, or go for a long canoe trek to Huskisson and back, stopping off for a cute picnic and swim on the banks of Currambene Creek. Sanctuary by Sirromet, Queensland Not only is it home to grapevines as far as the eye can see, but Mount Cotton's Sirromet Winery also has a restaurant with views over Moreton Bay, a nine-hole modified form of golf and regular live concerts — along with onsite glamping within its expansive 560-acre grounds. Visitors to Sanctuary by Sirromet can get cosy in one of 18 tents, each featuring a king bed, plush places to sit, al fresco dining furniture, bathrooms and reverse cycle air-conditioning to cope with southeast Queensland's warm weather. Every safari-style abode also includes a minibar filled with Sirromet wine, and all bookings include a complimentary breakfast. You can add on all kinds of winery experiences too, allowing you to take full advantage of the unique location. All these additions help make Sanctuary by Sirromet one of the best glamping sites in Australia. Peninsula Hot Springs, Victoria The Peninsula Hot Springs' series of luxury glamping tents allows visitors to spend the night onsite, mere steps from the geothermal baths, saunas, pools and other wellness offerings. The Victoria glamping retreat is a classy affair, with the tents nestled amongst the natural environment, boasting thermally-heated concrete floors, custom-made furniture and beds decked out in plush linens. Guests are treated to private ensuites and walk-in robes, complimentary breakfast, and access to the precinct's many wellness experiences. All that's left to decide is how much pampering you can fit into a weekend. [caption id="attachment_876464" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Australia[/caption] Banubanu Beach Resort, Northern Territory Run away to the Northern Territory's Bremer Island for a tropical island holiday. It's well and truly off the beaten path, so you'll be away from the crowds, surrounded only by well-preserved wilderness. To make it even more remote, head to Banubanu Beach Retreat, right at the northernmost tip of the island. Here, you'll find five glamping tents sitting pretty on the beach. All rooms come with a king or twin single, an ensuite, a deck with views over the water and an outdoor shower — the penthouse bungalow even has its own plunge pool. And as you are so far away from everything, a stay here also includes transfers to and from the mainland, all meals (courtesy of onsite chefs) and access to all the kayaking and snorkel gear you could need. Just bring your togs and a sun hat — there's no need to wear anything else during your stay. Marramarra Lodge, Hawkesbury River This ultra-luxe glamping site near Sydney is set within the picturesque Marramarra National Park, right on the Hawkesbury River. Arrive in style by boat from Mooney Mooney or Brooklyn, before setting yourselves up in one of the large open-plan safari tents. Each of the Marramarra Lodge tents boasts a king-sized bed, large riverstone-clad bathroom, aircon, all your linen and towels, a fully stocked mini bar, and tea- and coffee-making facilities. You can even get room service delivered. But the best feature has got to be the private timber deck that offers up uninterrupted views across this stunning spot that's just an hour out of Sydney. Bay of Fires Retreat, Tasmania As far as glamping goes, Bay of Fires Bush Retreat is laidback. The large bell tents are basic, but come with a king bed, power for recharging your tech and space for you to store your gear — more than your swag will allow for. Then, there's a communal kitchen and toilet block. You can choose to cook up some of their pre-prepared meals or BYO grub to fuel you through your adventuring. Unlike many of the other inclusions in this list, here you're closest to actually camping (but you've still managed to score a big comfy bed). The local area is ripe for exploring. The retreat is located within the bushlands at the southern entrance to Tasmania's Bay of Fires. You're not really in walking distance from a lot, but you can quickly drive to all the best bits of the area. Head north from the retreat along Gardens Road to find the iconic white sand beaches, crystal blue water and the orange-hued granite boulders the Bay of Fires is so renowned for. Werribee Open Range Zoo, Victoria Going on an African safari is on so many travel bucket lists. But they are an investment trip and fairly far away from Australia's shores. So, if you want to do some holidaying that's reminiscent of an overseas safari, the Werribee Zoo's slumber safari is for you. Expect tents all set up and ready to go in a private section of the zoo, close to the giraffes, elephants and lions — but still safely hidden behind fences. Worry not. Kick back in your tent with all the usual amenities — plus a private deck overlooking the zoo's open plains. Then, head to some closed-off parts of the zoo, where most visitors never go, to see the animals up close. It's a behind-the-scenes tour of Werribee Zoo with glamping accommodation, a three-course dinner and sunset drinks. Longitude 131°, Northern Territory This is one of Australia's most famous glamping accommodations: Longitude 131°. Here, set within iconic red sand dunes, each luxury tent gives guests views over Uluru itself. You won't want to miss any of the sunsets or sunrises from your room, and thankfully you won't even need to get out of bed to experience them. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows will have you mesmerised by the surrounding landscape for your entire trip. You'll also have a private deck (with a fireplace and day bed), a king bed and large ensuite bathroom. The grounds? Built like a luxury resort. They have restaurants and bars onsite — the most impressive being Dune Top, which even has its own plunge pool complete with uninterrupted views of the surreal vista. Plus, there's a spa for those who want to be pampered. This is an incredible glamping site for the most special of special occasions. Save this Red Centre stay for one of life's major milestones. Sierra Escape, New South Wales Sierra Escape — the luxe glamping retreat in Mudgee — is located 260 kilometres northwest of Sydney. The 280-acre property boasts spectacular views and is home to wildlife, including kangaroos, deer and various native birds. So yeah, basically, it's paradise. The Carinya tent — if you can even call something this opulent a tent — includes floor-to-ceiling windows, large indoor and outdoor freestanding bathtubs and a firepit area. It's insulated for all seasons, and there's even a deck out front where you can kick back and watch the sunset from one of the best places to go glamping in NSW. Pebble Point, Victoria The Twelve Apostles is a must-see when touring The Great Ocean Road. But few people know about the hidden glamping site located behind these cliff tops and rock formations. There are six safari tents at Pebble Point, which may not look out over the ocean but do offer countryside views that are nothing to gawk at. Besides, they're super close to the beaches situated at the end of the Great Ocean Walk. Rooms come with king beds, ensuite bathrooms and access to the communal kitchen area and barbecue site. But keep in mind: the tents aren't heated. It can get fairly cold on the Victorian coast in winter, so be sure to bring your thermals and woolly jumpers. The beauty of these comfortable-yet-simple glamping tents is that you won't be breaking the bank, while still getting all the best bits of sleeping amongst Australia's unique wildlife and natural scenery. Feeling inspired to book a glamping getaway? Book your next dream holiday with Concrete Playground Trips — with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations around the world. Top images: Sal Salis
North Sydney has scored a brand-new local, and it comes with serious pedigree. Hospitality veteran Michael Broome (Ette, formerly Jacksons on George) has turned his attention north of the bridge with Ost., a welcoming all-day eatery and neighbourhood bar designed for everything from morning coffee stops to after-work cocktails. Taking its name from 'osteria', Ost. is built around — and for — the local community. At its heart is an expansive, light-filled beer garden, complete with ten-metre ceilings, communal benches, intimate tables and plenty of greenery. By day, it's awash with sunlight for coffee catch-ups and laptop sessions; at night, it transforms into a sophisticated yet relaxed local with soft lighting and live acoustic tunes on Friday evenings. Inside, earthy timbers and stone textures set a warm, understated tone. Head in from 7.30am for Dutch Smuggler coffee, toasties, hearty breakfast wraps and pastries, plus the option to toast the day with a morning mimosa thanks to a 10am liquor license. As the day rolls on, the menu shifts to pizzas, steaks, burgers and bar snacks, including a run of $15 daily food specials from Monday to Friday spanning schnitzels, wings, burgers and fish and chips. Behind the bar, Ette's Beverage Director Claudio Matricini has crafted a lineup of approachable cocktails, local wines and beers, complemented by a daily happy hour (4.30–5.30pm) featuring $10 margaritas and $5 house spirits. With its wallet-friendly drinks and crowd-pleasing food menu, as well as one of North Sydney's most impressive beer gardens, Ost. is a smart new addition to Sydney's northside CBD. Images: Chris Chen.
Motherhood is often framed as a beginning — the arrival of a child, the start of a new chapter. Increasingly, though, psychologists and writers describe it as something closer to transformation. The word for it is matrescence: the physical, emotional, and psychological transition into motherhood, a process many now compare to adolescence in its scale of physical impact on the body. For Steph Claire Smith and Laura Henshaw, the concept offers a language for a shift they were already experiencing. The Melbourne-based founders of wellness platform KIC have spent the past decade encouraging women to rethink their relationship with movement, food and self-worth. Now, both navigating early motherhood themselves — Steph for the second time, Laura for the first — that philosophy is evolving again. Not in theory, but in real time. Henshaw first encountered the concept while reading Lucy Jones's book Matrescence before the birth of her son Atlas. It was (deliberately) the only book she read in preparation for motherhood, but it proved to be an unexpectedly grounding one. "Matrescence is essentially the transition into motherhood and how it affects our mind, brain and body," she explains. "I read the book before Atlas was born, and it helped me understand what was happening scientifically — how our brains actually rewire when we become parents." View this post on Instagram A post shared by @kicbump That neurological shift, she says, reframed experiences that might otherwise have felt unsettling. Understanding the science behind motherhood didn't make the process simple, but it helped her contextualise the intensity of it. "One thing that really stuck with me was intrusive thoughts," she says. "I used to have anxiety earlier in life, and I was prepared for that to come back when I became a mum. But reading about how your brain becomes more protective of your child helped me understand why those thoughts can happen. I could separate that from myself and think, 'Okay, my brain is doing this because it's trying to protect my baby.'" The book also made something else clear: that motherhood is rarely the singular, all-encompassing identity people expect it to be. Instead, it tends to expand a person's sense of purpose rather than replace it. Before Atlas arrived, Henshaw says much of her identity was tied to her career. Building KIC alongside Smith had been the defining project of her adult life, and she worried that motherhood might fundamentally alter that drive. "I think for a long time my main purpose in life was my career," she says. "I'd come to terms with that being a really big part of my identity, and I was actually quite scared of losing it." Instead, she found that motherhood didn't displace that ambition so much as widen it. "I still feel like that career person," she says. "But my purpose has expanded. It now also includes caring for Atlas and loving him. And something I didn't expect was contentment — that feeling is something I realise I'd never really experienced before becoming a mum." For Smith, mum to son Harvey (four) and Billie (nine months),who has spoken candidly online and on the KICBump podcast about the realities of parenting, matrescence has also reshaped her relationship with movement. Before children, workouts followed the sort of structured routines familiar to many in the fitness world — longer sessions, consistent programming and clearly defined goals. "My routine just can't look how it used to," she says. "Some days it's a five- or ten-minute Pilates class on the mat while Harvey's watching Bluey and Billie's crawling around on the floor. That's just the reality of this stage of life." At other times, movement becomes something shared rather than solitary. Recently, she went for her first run with both children in tow — Billie in a pram, while Harvey rode alongside on his bike. It was less about performance than about proving something to herself. "I just needed to know it was possible," she says. "Of course it won't look like that every time, but being able to do it once felt really empowering." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stephanie Miller (@stephclairesmith) The shift has also expanded her motivations. While she still values the physical benefits of exercise, she is increasingly aware of the example she is setting. "It's really important to me that Harvey grows up seeing movement as a normal part of life," she says. "I was very into sports growing up and it gave me so much confidence and connection with other people. You can't mould your children into who you want them to be, but I do hope my relationship with movement sparks that curiosity in him." Henshaw's own relationship with movement is entering a new chapter as well. A committed runner who completed the New York Marathon in 2024, she found that pregnancy temporarily erased the desire to run altogether. "While I was pregnant I would see people running and think, 'I must be allergic to running,'" she says, laughing. "I just couldn't imagine doing it." Now, twelve weeks postpartum, the urge is slowly returning. That process has become part of the inspiration behind KIC's newest program, Run for Joy, an eight-week running challenge developed in partnership with New Balance that encourages participants to focus less on pace or distance and more on reconnecting with the enjoyment of movement."I love that the challenge is centred around joy," she says. "That's really what I want to rediscover in my own running journey." View this post on Instagram A post shared by KIC | Health and wellness (@kic) Hers will begin with the program's postpartum pathway, a physio-designed training plan that builds safely from zero to three kilometres over eight weeks. "[KICRun Postpartum] is designed for returning to running after having a baby," she explains. "Your body goes through so many changes, so it's really important to ease back into it in a safe way." The logistics of fitting exercise into daily life now require a little more planning than they once did. "I can't just head out the door whenever I want anymore," she says. "My husband and I are actually writing out the schedule together so that time is protected. Otherwise it's very easy for the days to just go by." That negotiation between ambition and adaptability is something both founders recognise from another part of their lives as well. Building a business in their twenties meant navigating uncertainty, setbacks and the constant pressure of public scrutiny — experiences that Smith believes have unexpectedly prepared them for motherhood."There are similarities between leadership and being a founder and motherhood," she reflects. "You face challenges and hurdles that force you to build confidence and resilience. In that sense, the experience of growing a business has definitely helped." At the same time, motherhood has reshaped how she approaches leadership itself. The arrival of children has sharpened her empathy and expanded her understanding of the experiences people carry into work and life. "It's given me more compassion and curiosity about what people might be going through," she says. "I think having a child just opens your eyes to so many different perspectives." In many ways, the evolution mirrors the trajectory of KIC itself. What began in 2015 (named 'Keep It Cleaner' at the time) as a 'clean' eating recipe e-book has gradually expanded into a broader wellness ecosystem encompassing movement, mindfulness, sleep, mindset and community. The philosophy behind it has always been that wellbeing should feel supportive rather than prescriptive, something that adapts alongside the lives of the people using it. Motherhood, in that sense, represents simply another season in the same ongoing journey. Wellness is no longer about rigid routines or aesthetic outcomes but about flexibility, resilience and the freedom to redefine what strength looks like at different stages of life. For Smith and Henshaw, that season currently includes prams, nap schedules and the occasional Pilates session squeezed into a living-room floor between episodes of Bluey. Yet the underlying philosophy that built their business remains intact. Movement should feel joyful, ambition should coexist with compassion, and growth — whether in business, identity or motherhood — is rarely linear. Enrolments for the New Balance x KICRun challenge are now open via the KICApp, with the first session beginning on Monday, 9 March. For more on KIC, visit kicwellness.com. Images: Supplied
Transport for New South Wales has enlisted the help of Sydney startup Spot Parking on a handy new project: digitally mapping every kerb in Manly, then turning the results into a parking finder map. Letting Sydneysiders plan out their search for a spot near the beach — and making the process a whole lot easier, too — the Northern Beaches Parking Finder shows you where to find free parking, disabled parking and loading zones. It also details the cost of hourly parking and the time limits that apply on certain spots. The map covers more than 15 square kilometres, stretching from North Head all the way over to North Balgowlah — so whether you're trying to nab a spot by the wharf or just looking to drop into Balgowlah Bunnings, you can find a park using the directory. Resident permit areas are also included in the map to help Manly residents understand where their permits allow them to park. Spot Parking won the NSW Government's Parking Innovation Challenge, which asked tech companies and innovators to digitise on-street parking and traffic rules. Spot Parking's Manly map was one of two winning designs, and can now be found as part of the Northern Beaches Council website. [caption id="attachment_800991" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Northern Beaches Parking Finder[/caption] Melbourne tech service UbiPark also took out the top spot alongside Spot Parking. As part of the competition, UbiPark submitted a new feature on its app that can decipher parking signs. It uses your camera to scan the parking sign, and then tells you if you can park in that spot and how long for. UbiPark is currently functional in the Chatswood CBD, so make sure to download it before you make a trip out to the new Butter store. There's no word yet on whether or not Spot Parking's parking finder will be expanding to other Sydney suburbs that suffer from similar parking woes. Find the Spot Parking Northern Beaches Parking Finder by visiting the Northern Beaches Council website.
Street food continues to make its mark as one of Sydney's major food groups, and Cairo Takeaway in Newtown is one of the standout examples. Though it might sound like a standard takeaway joint, the small cafe is not your average kebab shop; the ingredients are fresh, there's plenty of space to dine in, food is made to order and the menu is a truly authentic one — thanks to owner Hesham El Masry. El Masry has 12 years of experience in hospitality and brought it back home with this venture, which is somewhat of a homage to his mum's Egyptian cooking. It's a smart business model as, let's face it, no one does it like mum — especially not like his. "There's a lot of Middle Eastern food in this city, but a lack of Egyptian speciality food," says El Masry. "People tend to look at these cuisines holistically, but Egyptian food is really its own thing and we're filling a niche [with Cairo Takeaway]." Compared with — as he says — the "million and one cafes" in Sydney, I think it's safe to say El Masry has opened the only cafe in the area with a dedicated falafel bar. The falafel here really is next level. Made using split fava beans the traditional Egyptian way, the falafel balls are fresh and light, with a crunchy shell and, true to their ingredients, a green centre. They're then lovingly stuffed into a sesame-crusted warm pita and topped with an array of pickled veg — take one down with a beer and all will be right with the world. El Masry further embraces his inner west location by stocking a rotating selection of craft beer. The menu also lends itself naturally to vegetarian food, with cauliflower pockets and vegetarian plates standing up alongside the requisite meat plates with lamb kofta. While at night the beers are flowing and the lively atmosphere almost takes on a casual bar vibe, and on the weekend it opens a little earlier at eleven. The shakshuka is one of the best we've had in Sydney; the capsicum and tomato stew is mixed with authentic sucuk (a dried sausage) and topped with gooey baked eggs, making the sauce nice and rich once you dig in with either fork or pita. The traditional Egyptian ful medames is the most bang-for-your-buck dish, coming on a traditional metal tray with separate dishes for slow-cooked fava beans, boiled eggs, all the salads and the option to add an extra falafel ball — a wise and highly recommended choice. For brunch drinks, the karkadé, a chilled hibiscus juice, and the freshly squeezed cane juice are the perfect summer refreshers — though no one would judge you for going after a little hair of the dog, with chilled beers ready and waiting. There is a small selection of wine available by the glass and bottle, but it also a BYO venue for wine only, so head across the road to PNV beforehand and find yourself the perfect bottle. Overall, it's a simple, straightforward joint that slots right into the neighbourhood while bringing its own distinct offering — as well as lots and lots of falafel. Images: Destination NSW.
The word institution gets thrown around a lot when it comes to restaurants in Sydney — especially when talking about old school Italian joints — but no where quite lives up to the moniker than Darlinghurst's famed Beppi's. This spot has been serving up delicious Italian fare for over 67 years. It is often thought that five years is a good run for a restaurant, and ten years exceptional, but anything over fifty is almost unheard of these days. Beppi's is the exception to the rule, and it has its focus on quality meals and exceptional service to thank. When it opened its doors, Dwight D. Eisenhower was the president of the USA and Elvis had barely broken into the charts. A lot has changed since then, but thankfully Beppi's has not. The number of a-listers who have dined at Beppi's is somewhat intimidating, and includes the likes of Frank Sinatra, Neil Armstrong, Shirley Bassey, Mick Jagger and Sir Edmund Hillary. Legend has it that Bob Hawke and John Howard once dined on the same night although at different tables. Recent guests include Bono and Rhianna and its such a favourite for the megastars due to the focus on respect and privacy. Whether you're selling out Accor Arena or you've caught the train in from Penrith, everyone here is equal and afforded the same treatment. The menu includes antipasti staples such as rock oysters with lemon granita, fresh figs wrapped in prosciutto and mussels and pipis simmered in fish stock, wine, parsley and garlic. The pasta highlights include old-school favourites such as tagliolini tossed with scampis in butter, garlic and parsley. For a main, look no further than the half-roasted duck served with orange sauce and caramelised fig. If you're looking for classy and traditional Italian in a seductive dining room, Beppi's is your pick. The only thing that matches the food is the quality of the service. Images: Alana Dimou Appears in: The Best Italian Restaurants in Sydney for 2023
Within a couple of hours' drive of Sydney, there are hidden caves for cooling off in, huge sandstone caves for camping (with 50 or so of your closest mates), beachside caves for picnicking, tunnel caves for meeting glow worms in and river caves for swimming. In short, there are a lot of caves, even if you won't run into them when tucked up in town. However, these primeval landmarks are ripe for adventure – and often closer than you'd think. Here are the ten best caves near Sydney we think you should visit. Recommended reads: The Best Swimming Holes in Sydney The Best Hikes in Sydney The Best Coastal Walks in Sydney The Best Rivers for Swimming in Sydney [caption id="attachment_554861" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Robert Montgomery via Flickr[/caption] Caves Beach, Lake Macquarie Caves Beach is no misnomer. This magical shoreline is famous for the labyrinth of caves found at its southern end. They're only explorable at low tide, so be sure to time your visit according to the charts. Whether the sun gets a little hot or the wind picks up, you can find a serene refuge inside these monumental lairs. You'll find Caves Beach 130 kilometres north of Sydney, just south of Swansea Heads, which is where Lake Macquarie joins the sea. Plus, a handful of charming restaurants and cafes are just up the beach. Bring some camping supplies — and a good book — and camp out until the tide starts to change. [caption id="attachment_703034" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dee Kramer for Destination NSW[/caption] Cave Beach, Jervis Bay Not to be confused with the aforementioned Caves Beach, Cave Beach is located on the other side of Sydney in Booderee National Park — about a three-hour drive south of Sydney. As well as its namesake cave at the western end of the beach, it is known for its turquoise waters, primed for snorkelling, surfing and swimming. If planning on spending the night there, you'll find a secluded campsite 300 metres from the beach. While waking up to the sound of the ocean is already idyllic, this break is a choice destination for beginner surfers, thanks to its soft rolling waves. Meanwhile, a friendly kangaroo troupe regularly wanders through to graze on the grass. Pindar Cave, Brisbane Water Contemplating a cave party? Pindar Cave might well be your first choice. It's an enormous overhang made of sandstone that can accommodate as many as 50 explorers at once. And you're perfectly welcome to stay the night, with this vast sheltered space helping to keep you dry and warm if the weather turns south. To reach Pindar, jump on a Central Coast or Newcastle-bound train to Wondabyne Station. From there, the cave is located about two hours on foot. If you're driving up, there are several places to park your car before venturing into the national park. While a little more effort than others on this list, Pindar Cave certainly won't disappoint. [caption id="attachment_790431" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Tran via Department of Planning, Industry and Environment[/caption] Glow Worm Tunnel, Wollemi National Park Strictly speaking, this isn't a cave. It's a 400-metre-long, disused train tunnel that used to form part of the Wolgan Valley Railway. Glow Worm Tunnel may be rocky and dark, but there are stacks of glow worms hidden within. So we could hardly be expected to leave it off the list. You'll find it about 30 kilometres northeast of Lithgow. The best way to arrive is via a five-kilometre stroll along what used to be the railway, which you can even work into an overnight hike. But if you're short on time, drive further and reduce the walk to just one kilometre. While you're there, please avoid flashing torches, smoking, lighting fires, making a racket and, most importantly, touching the glow worms — they're fragile creatures and easily killed. And if you want to explore the area over a few days, we recommend staying at this local treehouse accommodation – it offers the ideal base amongst the gum trees when off making bioluminescent discoveries. [caption id="attachment_554836" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Aidan Casey via Flickr[/caption] Palona Cave, Royal National Park Made of limestone, Palona Cave stands out in the mostly sandstone Royal National Park as it comes with exotic furnishings like stalagmites and stalactites. That also means it's a lovely place to cool off, made even more refreshing by a nearby waterfall cascading through the rainforest (to find it, follow the track another 20 metres). Getting to Palona Cave involves walking or cycling a couple of kilometres along the relatively flat Lady Carrington Drive (rom the crossroads with Sir Bertram Stevens Drive), just an hour's drive from Sydney. [caption id="attachment_554843" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Steve via Flickr[/caption] Fig Tree Cave, Wombeyan Karst Conservation Reserve The Wombeyan Karst Conservation Reserve's caves are a dazzling series of natural limestone structures. The most visited is Fig Tree Cave, which can be explored via a self-guided tour, and is crowded with all kinds of striking 'cave furniture', from stalagmites and stalactites to helictites and cave coral. Leave yourself enough time to swim in the stunning Wombeyan Gorge, and pay attention to your surroundings, as this part of the world is a haven for endangered creatures. You can always stay the night too, as there's a campground, cabins and private accommodation. The Wombeyan Caves are in the Southern Highlands, about 250 kilometres southwest of Sydney. [caption id="attachment_703039" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andrew Harvey via Flickr [/caption] River Caves Canyon, Newnes Plateau Even though River Caves is a canyon, you don't need abseiling skills to visit. All you have to do is walk in. That said, you can expect to get your knees – and maybe even your thighs – wet, as most of the trail is more of a creek. But chances are you'll be so awed by the towering sandstone walls surrounding you that you'll hardly notice. River Caves Canyon is on the Newnes Plateau in the Gardens of Stone National Park, about 180 kilometres northwest of Sydney. Navigating your way there can be tricky, but there are some helpful instructions over here. Pack a dry change of clothes and some water shoes if you happen to have some handy. [caption id="attachment_554835" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Adam J.W.C. via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Wind Cave, Blue Mountains This extraordinary structure is the creation of wind erosion. As a result, the walls are covered in tiny, intricate formations that have the colour and look of honeycomb. Being far taller than it is deep, it feels a bit like a giant's picnic spot. The views are beautiful, incorporating the Grose Valley and Mount Banks. To reach Wind Cave, head to Blackheath and take Hat Hill Road all the way to the end, before following the signs leading to Anvil Rock. From there, it's only a 200-metre walk from the carpark. If you have the option, timing your visit with sunset means catching the vast landscape as it bursts to life in golden hues. [caption id="attachment_553972" align="alignnone" width="1280"] NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service[/caption] Red Hands Cave, Ku-Ring-Gai National Park The Red Hands Cave is one of Ku-ring-gai National Park's most well-known sites for Indigenous heritage, not to mention one of the best preserved. On the walls, you'll see colourful ochre handprints that were pressed onto the rocky surface as far back as 1,600 years ago. According to local historians, the ancient artists would chew a mixture of ochre and water, then blow it over their resting hand to form a stencil. Red Hands Cave is a short walk from Resolute Picnic Area in Ku-ring-gai's West Head section. For a longer journey, continue along the Aboriginal Heritage Walk, a nearly five-kilometre loop featuring more art, engravings and a historic shelter that culminates with the enchanting Resolute Beach. Note: Red Hands Cave is temporarily closed for works, with no scheduled reopening date confirmed. [caption id="attachment_703035" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] Jenolan Caves, Blue Mountains Needless to say, we couldn't exclude this classic. In Jenolan Caves, 175 kilometres west of Sydney, you'll discover some of the most ridiculously beautiful rocks on the planet. There are nine caves altogether, filled with limestone formations, pristine underground rivers and secret chambers. The only way to visit is by tour. Choose the cave that most appeals to you — take it easy with a one-hour Imperial Cave Tour or get an adrenaline hit on an abseiling escapade. Either way, impressive lighting and walkways make it easier to get a clear and up-close experience with the cave's millennia-old features. Note: Jenolan Caves are currently closed due to flooding and major road repairs, with a reopening date yet to be confirmed. Top image: Andrew Harvey via Flickr.
For more than 20 years, Il Baretto served up its pappardelle with duck ragu and just the right amount of hipster charm on Bourke Street. In October 2020, in the midst of the global pandemic, it suddenly shut up shop — but, thankfully, it's reopened on Oxford Street. The Italian diner relocated to Paddington, bringing many of its signature dishes with it, including, yes, that ragu, as well as the spaghetti alla carbonara and the rigatoni alla aroma. But, apart from a very similar black-and-white Il Baretto sign, the setup and fit-out is a little different. Instead of its own space, Il Baretto 2.0 is located out the back of Solotel's Paddo Inn, in the former dining room space. It has a similar "unpretentious, relaxed charm", but it's no longer cash-only — and, sadly, no longer BYO. On the upside, though, the restaurant has a bigger drinks offering with a list of ten Italian and Australian wines — including a Das Juice fiano and Sicilian nero d'avola. The hospitality giant's front bar remains open and continues to serve up spritzes and blood orange negronis, alongside bar snacks alla Il Baretto. Expect the likes of the bruschetta al pomodore, salame norcia and beef carpaccio. Despite the move, owner Gabriella Fedeli says Il Baretto is still laidback and affordable. "We have always had a 'no fuss', 'simple' and 'traditional' approach to the way we do things, " Fedeli said in a statement. "The attitude and style of the place is not something that I want to change. I have always liked the fact that we are a broad-church for all types of customers – families, corporates, musicians – whoever. Our price and manner of service is intended to be for everyone." Images: Cassandra Hannagan Appears in: The Best Italian Restaurants in Sydney for 2023
One universal takeaway from the past few years is a newfound appreciation for the great outdoors. After all, a hike in nature has loads of benefits: fresh air, fitness, scenery, a feeling of smug satisfaction... what's not to like? There are several summits worth surmounting in New South Wales and a heap of them are located an easy drive from Sydney. Here are the best mountain walks near Sydney for when you need an altitude boost. [caption id="attachment_790361" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elinor Sheargold via Department of Planning, Industry and Environment[/caption] MOUNT BANKS, BLUE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK For dazzling views of the Grose Valley and wombat spotting, head to Mount Banks. The 2.4-kilometre return trail starts at the Mount Banks picnic area and begins with a short yet steep climb before ascending gradually to the summit. Most peaks in the Blue Mountains are sandstone but this still has a basalt covering created by volcanoes 20 million years ago. For the flora fiends among you, take in smooth-barked monkey gums and native wildflowers. Once you hit the top, the view of Grose Valley from the summit is awesome. If you'd like to extend the hike, opt to link up with the Mount Banks Road cycle route, which will make the trek about 4.7 kilometres all up. [caption id="attachment_790363" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peter Beard via Department of Planning, Industry and Environment[/caption] CAREYS PEAK, BARRINGTON TOPS NATIONAL PARK Set within the ancient Gondwana rainforests — a World Heritage Area — Careys Peak takes you through the best bits of Barrington Tops National Park. The 14-kilometre return walk begins at the Mount Barrington picnic area and travels through the Australian wilderness, parts of which will remind you of Lord of the Rings with more giant native ferns and fewer demonic shadow creatures. From the peak, 1544 metres above sea level, soak up the pastoral glory of the Hunter Valley on one side and the expansive Barrington wilderness on the other. [caption id="attachment_790364" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Rachel-Ann Wilcher via Department of Planning, Industry and Environment[/caption] BURNING MOUNTAIN, BURNING MOUNTAIN NATURE RESERVE Burning Mountain (aka Mount Wingen) gets its name from a coal seam, 30 metres underground, that has been on fire for an estimated 5500 years. And, since the fire moves one metre every year, the landscape is continually changing. The hike itself is an accessible four-kilometre loop that allows you to explore this phenomenon and its impact on geology, animals and plants — from the smoke billowing out of the ground to the red gums growing along cracks in the earth. The Burning Mountain Nature Reserve is a 3.5-hour drive from Sydney, so we recommend staying overnight at a campsite or at accommodation in nearby Scone (the town, not the baked good). [caption id="attachment_789748" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] DONKEY MOUNTAIN, WOLGAN VALLEY Wolgan Valley sits between Gardens of Stone National Park and Newnes Plateau. Somewhere in the middle is Donkey Mountain. Reaching its summit involves weaving your way through an adventurer's paradise — in and out of canyons, pagodas and caves splashed with rock orchids, ferns and natural vertical gardens. The trails are largely unmarked and difficult to navigate, so it's best to come prepared for a challenge and take a compass/GPS or an experienced climber. We recommend staying the night before at the nearby Newnes campground to allow plenty of time to explore the region. [caption id="attachment_790360" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Susan Davis via Department of Planning, Industry and Environment[/caption] PIERIES PEAK, MOUNT ROYAL NATIONAL PARK Don't let the three-kilometre return hike to Pieries Peak fool you. It may not be long but it is steep. The challenging trail starts at Youngville campground and launches straight into action, climbing through rocky ridges, snow grass and rainforest. Once you reach the top, kick back and enjoy views across Hunter Valley and Lake Saint Clair. The peak gets pretty cold in winter so check the forecast and make sure it's not arctic up there before you commit. In general, the region's weather is unpredictable, so come prepared for all scenarios. [caption id="attachment_840238" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] THE CASTLE, MORTON NATIONAL PARK The Budawangs are a three-hour drive from Sydney, so if you can't cut an early start, head down the night before and pitch a tent by the river at Long Gully campground. It'll give you time to physically and mentally prep, because The Castle hike isn't exactly a lazy stroll. Prepare for rock scrambling at great heights. If you'd rather hike with a pro, you can book in a guided tour through Big Nature Adventures. Despite its difficulty, this hike is worth it — The Castle is hands down one of the best mountain walks in New South Wales, giving you amazing views over Morton National Park, the Byangee Walls and Pigeon House Mountain. [caption id="attachment_789764" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] WENTWORTH PASS, BLUE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK Do go chasing waterfalls at Wentworth Pass walking trail. Located two hours from Sydney, the grade four hike is a five-kilometre loop that takes around four hours to complete. The trek is a segment of the famed National Pass trail. Along the way, you'll hike deep into the Valley of the Waters encountering seven waterfalls — starting with Wentworth Falls. The lookout boasts views across the Jamison Valley to Mount Solitary. You'll then undertake one helluva steep climb, passing five more waterfalls along the way, finishing at the breathtaking Empress Falls lookout. BULAHDELAH MOUNTAIN TRAIL, BULAHDELAH Located an hour north of Newcastle, the Bulahdelah Mountain boasts a relaxed 4.5-kilometre return hike up to the top of the mountain. Once you reach the summit, you'll be treated to expansive views of the surrounding bushland, but there's also plenty to discover on your way up. Sitting in Worimi Country, the mountain is a sacred Indigenous site with a traditional cultural space found halfway up. Throughout the hike, you'll find tree carvings that were created in 2018 by local First Nations community members. And, while you're in Bulahdelah, you can stop by the Grandis picnic area to find the tallest standing tree in NSW. Top image: Morton National Park by Destination NSW
Put on your walking shoes, pack some sunscreen and your water bottle, because we're going for a wander. Sydney is surrounded by so much incredible bushland and rugged coastline that's just begging to be explored. Though many of these overnight hikes are close to the city, you'll be able to immerse yourself in nature, spot some incredible wildlife, score some solitude and feel like you're a million miles from civilisation. Most of these walks are achievable for anyone with a moderate level of fitness — all you need to bring is camping equipment, a waterproof jacket and an adventurous spirit. [caption id="attachment_790425" align="alignnone" width="1920"] D Finnegan via Department of Planning, Industry and Environment[/caption] THE COAST TRACK, ROYAL NATIONAL PARK This 26-kilometre walk takes in some of the most spectacular cliffs and coastlines you'll see in Australia. Jump on the Bundeena Ferry (about 1.5 hours from Sydney) and head south along the coast to Otford. On the way, you'll spot a huge variety of birds, have the opportunity to swim at several gorgeous beaches and, if you hike between May and October, be able to watch the whale migration. The walk itself can get strenuous at times, with steep gradients, quite a few steps and some bits of rough track. For your overnight, you'll need to book ahead to stay at the North Era campground. At the end of the walk, it's easy enough to jump on a train at Otford and head back to reality — though we won't blame you if you want to stay on this coastline forever. Difficulty: Moderate/Hard [caption id="attachment_790432" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Tran via Department of Planning, Industry and Environment[/caption] GLOW WORM TUNNEL, WOLLEMI NATIONAL PARK If you want to visit this incredible glow worm tunnel in the Blue Mountains, you could just park nearby and walk in — but that wouldn't be any fun now, would it? We recommend driving to the town of Newnes (about three hours from Sydney) and staying overnight in this well-appointed campsite by the Wolgan River. From here, it's roughly a four-hour round trip to visit the glow worms, which live in a 400-metre stretch of an abandoned railway tunnel. The nine-kilometre walk in and out is pretty easy, with just a short climb at the very beginning. And when the track splits about 200 metres along, you can take the loop counter-clockwise to avoid the steepest bits. Don't forget your torch, as it gets bloody dark in the tunnel. But if you turn off the torch and wait in silence for a little bit, the worms will start their magic pretty quickly. Difficulty: Easy [caption id="attachment_790455" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Aine Gliddon via Department of Planning, Industry and Environment[/caption] PIERCES PASS TO BLUE GUM FOREST, BLUE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK You know what's better than a hike? A hike that involves an optional paddle in a beautiful, tree-lined river. This 16-kilometre return walk starts at the end of Pierces Pass Road (near Bells Line of Road) and descends to truly stunning views down to Pierces Pass. It then moves through the lush forests and skyscraper trees of Grose Valley. Don't forget to pack your swimmers because there will be multiple opportunities to have a paddle in the refreshing Grose River along the way. It's about a six-hour hike each way, so there's plenty of time for a picnic lunch and swim. Expect to spot rock wallabies, lizards and birds along the way, especially around sunset. The Acacia Flat campground is located along the hike so that you can pitch a tent and extend your adventure through the Grose Valley to a two0day hike. At the campground you'll be immersed in the blue gum forrest for the night with plenty of opportunities for bird watching a campsite relaxation. Difficulty: Moderate [caption id="attachment_701888" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Freeland Hiking Co[/caption] MOUNT BUDAWANG TRAIL, BUDAWANG NATIONAL PARK While it may not span an epic distance, the eight-kilometre return Mount Budawang Trail isn't as easy as it sounds. The eight-hour, challenging trek is for experienced hikers who are looking for an adventurous trip with ever-changing terrain. It'll take you up to the summit of Mount Budawang, passing through grassy woodland, wet gullies, montane forest and wilderness views aplenty. The scenic lookout boasts panoramic views of The Castle and Didthul (Pigeon House Mountain) to the north, Durras Mountain and the NSW coast to the east, Clyde River valley to the south and Braidwood's Mount Gillamatong to the west. Since Mount Budawang is a 3.5-hour drive south of Sydney, you'll need to stay the night at Long Gully campground — but be sure to book ahead. Difficulty: Hard Long Gully campground is currently closed due to the recent rain. Head to the NSW National Parks website for up-to-date information on the site. [caption id="attachment_790365" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elinor Sheargold via Department of Planning, Industry and Environment[/caption] SIX FOOT TRACK, BLUE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK Originally a horse trail connecting Sydney and the Blue Mountains with Jenolan Caves, the Six Foot Track can be done in two days — but might be easier spread out over three days and two nights. While there are a couple of fairly steep sections (mostly at the start, as you descend from Katoomba into the Megalong Valley), this walk is graded as hard because of its length. Spanning 46-kilometres one way, the track is indeed a decent distance, but very achievable if you have good shoes and appropriate camping gear. For your overnight, there are a few easily accessible campsites along the route, and the reward of the majestic Jenolan Caves at the end of the trip is unbeatable. And there's even an afternoon minibus that will ferry you and your tired feet back to Katoomba from the caves. Difficulty: Moderate/Hard Sections of the Six Foot Track are currently closed. Head to the NSW National Parks website for up-to-date information on the site. Top Image: Coast Track, Royal National Park; Image Credit: Peter Sherratt via Department of Planning, Industry and Environment
