Overview
Most of us like the idea of getting out into the wilderness. But the reality can be challenging. Especially in Australia, where dense bush, snakes, spiders and sheer sandstone cliff faces are part of the picture. Then there's the hassle of making sure you have the right gear and working out what food to take – and how you're going to cook it.
The good news is that Freeland Hiking Co. wants to give you a helping hand. Founded by Sara Freeland, this new company offers guided multi-day hikes near Sydney. Sara and her crew do absolutely everything for you, from leading the way to handing you a cup of hot tea first thing in the morning to providing all gear, meals and transport.
At this stage, there are six hikes in the Freeland repertoire. Whether you're a novice hiker who wants to try an overnighter or a veteran ready to venture into new territory, there's find an adventure to suit you.
Beginners should start with the Ruined Castle: over two days and one night, you'll cover 22 kilometres, from Katoomba in the Blue Mountain to the Ruined Castle, passing Mount Solitary along the way. If you're up for something tougher, go for the Kanangra to Katoomba trip, a four-day, 45-kilometre escapade that passes through spectacular gorges, wild rivers and remote wilderness.
The trips don't come cheap, with the Ruined Castle setting you back $600 a person and the Kanangra to Katoomba costing $1400 a head, but everything is looked after — from snacks and backpacks to sleeping bags (with cotton liners) and national park fees, so you really just need to bring yourself and hiking-appropriate attire.
As an added bonus, the company is environmentally conscious. It aims is to produce as little waste as possible — with no single-use plastics allowed — and to have very little impact on the countryside.
For more information about Freeland Hiking Co, head to freelandhikingco.com.au.