Nature & parks in Sydney

The Sydney side of nature

Sydney might be a huge metropolis (five million people and counting), but you’re never very far away from nature here. Our beaches and harbour are watery wonderlands in themselves, but the city also possesses endless pockets of green – from urban oases like Centennial Park and the Royal Botanic Garden to untouched wilderness on the city fringes like Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park to the north and Royal National Park in the south. Dive, or walk, right in.

The best places to see Sydney's autumn colours

Seasonal fun

 When the weather begins to cool across Sydney, the city’s deciduous trees dial up the natural drama. Autumn is the ultimate time for kicking your way through piles of leaves.

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Couple enjoying a romantic picnic by Hawkesbury River, Wisemans Ferry

Find your path in a national park

A green thumbs guide to Western Sydney

Day trip ideas

With a wealth of beautiful gardens and sprawling woodlands, Western Sydney is a surprise must-visit for garden lovers. Here’s our guide to some of the most lush and verdant wonderlands to be found.

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Aerial overlooking Sundial Hill at The Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan

Unwind in Sydney's parks & gardens

Jacaranda season in Sydney

Jacaranda season in Sydney

Sydney’s signature bloom is the jacaranda. During October and November, pockets of the city explode into a sea of purple as the famous trees come into flower.

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