Overview
It's one of Sydney's most well-trodden running and walking tracks, and for good reason. The six-kilometre Bondi to Coogee coastal walk incorporates sweeping ocean views, sandstone cliffs, aquamarine pools and a host of excellent cafes and parks. And though there are many iconic landmarks on the route, we think there are some hidden gems too. We've partnered with Adidas to bring you a guide to seven rewarding pit stops along the way, from where to get a caffeine fix before you start to recovery pools for afterwards. Take a look, then plan your own adventure using the map below.
Brogan Chidley
MY FLOWER MAN
On the Bondi/Tamarama border, My Flower Man is a bright and breezy flower and coffee shop that's ever-so-slightly off-the-beaten-track that you won't have to fight the crowds for your morning brew. Coffee here is lovingly made with Skittle Lane beans and the cafe has ultra-friendly service, beautifully-curated homewares, plus plenty of cute pooches perched out the front. So there's lots to distract you as you warm up for the walk. From My Flower Man, you're either a seven-minute walk to the start of the Bondi to Coogee walk, or four minutes' stroll from Marks Park if you don't mind missing the first (and busiest) section of the path.
Waverley Council
TAMARAMA BEACH OUTDOOR FITNESS STATION
Follow the coastal path as it snakes around Marks Park to the beautiful Tamarama Beach. An obvious reward here is the view — and if you have your swimmers handy, so is a dip in the ocean. But, as you're still at the beginning of your journey, give yourself an extra challenge at the free outdoor fitness station instead. There are a few well-maintained stations along the route, but here you can add in step-ups, chin-ups and a set of push-ups if gains are your goals. While you've got the energy, make the most of the stairs — both at the park or by the beach — and do a couple of laps, before making your way back up to the footpath towards Bronte.
Flickr; Snowpea&bokchoi
IGGY'S
You've made it to Bronte Beach, which means you're halfway. Now, instead of following the crowds along the path, take a quick detour to Bronte Gully via Bronte Park. You'll find small waterfalls, a winding pathway and plenty of birdlife. Continue on your journey to Gardyne Street where you'll find an Instagrammer's dream: a towering tree and a tyre swing dubbed Children's Swing of Your Dreams on Google Maps. Continue to Macpherson Street to visit one of the best bakeries in Sydney. Iggy's has two outposts: one where you can get excellent, spongy sourdough loaves and warm bread rolls and another which sells buttery croissants and black coffee. The latter is the ideal refuelling treat.
Waverley Council
WAVERLEY CEMETARY
From Iggy's, take a shortcut though Waverley Cemetery. It may sound slightly morbid, but this grand old resting place has stunning views, impressive marble mausoleums and Victorian and Edwardian monuments honouring Sydney's past. You'll often spot birdlife darting around including supurb fairywrens, peregrine falcons and honeyeaters. In a respectful way, use the winding, wide pathways for a gentle jog or hill sprints to get your heart rate pumping.
Andrew Gregory; Destination NSW
SEA SALT, CLOVELLY
After making your way past Clovelly Bowling Club and The Geoff James Pool (Clovelly Ocean Pool), jog on to Sea Salt. Here you can order a refreshing cucumber, pear, green apple, mint and lemon juice; or fuel up with a nourishing red velvet smoothie packed with berries, beetroot, coconut, linseed, sunflower seed and almond meal blended with coconut water and ice.
Randwick City Council
GILES BATHS, COOGEE
After working up a sweat on your final leg to Coogee, cool down with a restorative ocean dip at Giles Baths. Located at the northern end of Coogee Beach, this natural rock pool is a safe and easy swimming point in calm conditions that will provide you with some saltwater therapy at the end of your run. Built in 1928, the baths were part of a historic wellness centre that's now demolished. You can still spot the original signage for Giles Gym and Baths from the path. There's no entry fee, though swimmers are asked to maintain social distancing measures.
Mark Clinton
RECOVERIE, COOGEE
You made it! As a final reward for your efforts, book in to new wellness centre Recoverie on Coogee Bay Road. You'll have to walk another 15 minutes up hill, but the pay off will be recovery-focused therapies, including hot and cold plunge pools, infrared and traditional saunas and high-tech gear like Hypervolt massage guns, Normatec compression devices and Zero Gravity float beds. Our pick is the plunge pool. Bring swimmers and a towel for showering before and afterwards. You can book a 30-minute session for $45, which will help any inflammation and improve your circulation. As well as feel real nice after all those kilometres.
In need of a new pair of runners? Take a look at the new Adidas Ultraboost 21 runners here. Launch the map below to start plotting your own running adventure in and around Sydney.
Top image: James Horan; Destination NSW