When people dream of Sydney, they tend to picture the big-name attractions: the sails of the Opera House, the city’s most Instagrammed beach (yep, that’s actually official), and of course, the mighty Coathanger over Sydney Harbour. However, our beautiful city has many secrets to share, and we’re here to fill you in. Shhh…
Just this week, tour operator Bókun unveiled a list of Australia’s best hidden gems based on Tripadvisor reviews of more than 1,000 destinations across the country. And although a dreamy beach on Kangaroo Island topped the list, three out of the ten places mentioned are right here in NSW. One of them is Wendy Whitely’s Secret Garden, pictured here.
This magical garden on the banks of Sydney Harbour is undeniably beautiful – hidden on the north side of the Harbour, a few minutes’ walk from the Harbour Bridge and also Luna Park.
The next NSW attraction to make the list of secret spots was a little further afield. The Drip Gorge – a significant place for the local Wiradjuri People – is located in the Goulburn River State Conservation Area, a four-and-a-half hour drive from Sydney (or a 40-minute drive from beautiful Mudgee). Head here for a magical walk through a sandstone gorge.
For another globally-leading secret gem closer to home, look to The Rocks: where an unassuming museum was listed as Australia’s seventh best hidden gem. Housed in a historic restored sandstone warehouse, The Rocks Discovery Museum is a free, family-friendly museum that shines a light on the history of the Harbour City.
Here’s the full list of Australia’s top ten best hidden gems:
- Stokes Bay Beach, SA
- Panorama Garden Estate, VIC
- Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden, NSW
- Himeji Garden, SA
- The Drip Gorge, NSW
- Little Beach, WA
- The Rocks Discovery Museum, NSW
- Japanese Garden, QLD
- Atherton Tablelands, QLD
- State Library, VIC
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.