THE BEST RUNNING TRAILS IN NZ
We’re spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful scenic running trails in Australia. There is really no better place in the world than our coastal stretches, loops around lakes and bushland trails shared with native wildlife.
Explore ones of these popular scenic routes along the Eastern seaboard, as voted by our very own Fitness First members.
NEW SOUTH WALES
SPIT BRIDGE TO MANLY
Jennifer, 27, Mosman Platinum
One of the more famous scenic routes in Sydney’s north is a series of short tracks between Manly and the Spit Bridge. Covering all the tracks in one run or walk is a lengthy 10km, but a great way to experience the various bays and beaches of Sydney Harbour. Follow the signs and detours through the bushland to discover historic sites and incredible vantage points with sweeping Harbour views. And on a hot day, there is nothing better than stopping for a quick dip at Forty Baskets Beach in Balgowlah.
BONDI TO BRONTE
Emma, 33, Bondi Platinum
It might be the most walked track in Sydney, but there’s no question why! The 3km path that extends between two of Australia’s iconic beaches, Bondi and Bronte, boasts epic coastal views, hidden coves and spectacular beaches. It’s one of my favourite places to spend a sunny Saturday morning. If you’re a serious runner, get in nice and early to avoid the crowds and be sure to take in the views from iconic vantage points along the way, like the sandstone lookout at Hunter Park. If you’re lucky, you might also spot a few celebs!
CRONULLA SAND DUNES
Rebecca, 29, Sylvania
If you’re looking for an easy weekend workout – the sand dunes are not it! Located along Greenhills Beach in Cronulla, the iconic dunes are a 3.5km training playground. Start at Lucas Reserve and follow the trail until you reach the sand. Test your endurance, or train in short bursts by sprinting up the enormous sand hills. Forget your trainers, barefoot is best! It may sound like a gruelling challenge, but it’s not all bad – at their highest point, the dunes offer panoramic views of southern Cronulla with glimpse of Sydney’s CBD to the North.
THE BAY RUN
Michael, 37, Newtown
This inner-west beauty is one of the most popular harbourside tracks in Sydney. It follows the Iron Cove shoreline, offering a much-needed escape from the day-to-day stresses. The tranquil, community atmosphere attracts everyone from families and dog walkers to cyclists and serious runners. Although it’s fairly flat, you can really test your limits, especially on the gradual incline at the Eastern end of the Iron Cove Bridge. You might just earn yourself one of Inner West’s finest delicacies – just off the track in Haberfield you’ll find the best baked ricotta cheesecake in all of Sydney at Papa’s Patisserie. It’s a welcome reward and definitely worth the effort!
SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE AND OPERA HOUSE
Kathy, 45, St Leonards
Every Sunday at 6am I love to run around the most iconic symbols of Sydney with my family. Start at Milsons Point and follow the path over the Harbour Bridge, down the tunnel towards Barangaroo and loop around the park. Hang a left onto Hickson Rd, past Finger Wharfs and Circular Quay terminal, and follow the Harbour foreshore all the way around to the Opera House. This is your Rocky moment – the Opera House steps! After a lap (or two), head via the Cahill Expressway and back over the Harbour Bridge to get back to Milsons Point.
NARRABEEN LAGOON TRAIL
Ashley, 28, Dee Why
The 8km loop around Narrabeen Lagoon is one of my favourite scenic running routes on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. It’s a popular track for walkers, joggers, dog walkers and cyclists with lush greenery and shading, tranquil water views and a variety of running surfaces to keep it interesting. You can start anywhere, but I like to set off at Jameson Park and finish up with a breakfast at the Boatshed Cafe, or hire a paddleboard and get out on the water for the day. Plus, a pit-stop at the outdoor gym in Billarong reserve is a great place for a friendly chin up competition!
VICTORIA
THE TAN
Jo, 39, South Yarra
Fun fact: This track was once a horse and carriage drive for Melbourne’s well-to-do. These days it’s a beautifully shaded, 3.84km tree-lined path curving around Melbourne’s Bo-TAN-ical Gardens. (Tan, get it?) In addition to the stunning gardens, you’ll get glimpses of the city, dappled sunlight through the overhanging trees and lovely river views. But it’s not all roses! The Anderson St leg, known as ‘heart-break hill’ will get you working, and you’ll find quite a few people set a cracking pace with hill sprints and interval training. Whether you’re walking your pooch, or going shoulder to shoulder with the professional athletes, The Tan is a great place to train outdoors on the fringe of the city.
BAYSIDE COASTAL TRAIL
Sue, 55, Brighton
Stretching from Mordialloc to the iconic Brighton Beach Baths, this trail weaves its way around the clifftops above the popular bayside beaches of Mentone, Beaumaris and Sandringham. My favorite run begins at the Black Rock Clock Tower and for the next 5km undulates along a tree-lined path towards Sandringham and Brighton for an out and back 10km. It’s a lovely surface to run on, offering a break from the bitumen and away from the traffic noise. Ramps and steps down to the beaches below can add zing to your workout but I prefer running along the clifftops, catching glimpses of the beaches below, the boats on the bay and city skyline in the distance. And being so close to Beach Road means lots of post-run coffee options!
YARRA TRAILS
Adrian, 35, QV Platinum
If you’re looking for a trail that is close to the city but with the feel of the countryside, the Yarra Trails is as good as it gets. It has a mix of terrain that is more varied and interesting than some of the other inner city tracks. At 12.1 km it’s a great weekend run along the Yarra River, far enough for a solid hit-out but it won’t take up your whole day. But you may be tempted to spend some recovery time at the beautiful Abbotsford Convent for breakfast or lunch – start and finish the run there and you might just find your day happily slipping away.
