If you are planning a trip to Sydney Australia then you really should consider doing the Harbour bridgeclimb.
The iconic Sydney harbour has world wide acclaim - the water, the Opera House and of course the Bridge itself. But nothing compares to seeing the harbour from up high, at the top of the Harbour Bridge. The view from up there is stunning.
It's not just about the harbour though, you get to see all of Sydney - its suburbs, waters and on a clear day, you can even see the Blue Mountains.
A symbol of Sydney and even Australia, the Harbour bridge is an institution. In my opinion, it's a masterpiece. You only have to see the New Year's Eve fireworks from the bridge to know why.
The bridge links the city of Sydney or Central Business District (CBD) to the northern suburbs. It is actually the worlds largest (but not longest) steel-arch Bridge and it was opened in 1932.
The climb itself needs a certain level of fitness and you need to be OK with heights! So the bridgeclimb is not for everyone. You need to be able to walk without a stick and its not the type of thing to do if you are pregnant. That said, children from 10 years old can take part in the climb so its not that bad. The total distance is less than 2km and the whole experience from safety demonstrations to finishing the climb takes about 3.5 hours
Most of the walk is on fairly wide walkways so is really easy. The first bit is the hardest bit where you have to climb up steep ladders. There are now two climbs on offer. The first is the original bridge climb which takes you right to the top where you can admire the amazing views
For those of you who want to get to know the bridge a little more, I would recommend the newer climb. This takes you on a behind the scenes tour of the workings of the bridge. You do still get to see the views too.
Safety is critical on the bridge climb and every precaution is taken to ensure your safety. There is a harness to link you to the fellow members of your group so you won't fall off. You get an ear piece so you can hear the instructions and commentary from your guide. There is also a breath test before you leave to make sure no-one is over the limit. Only other thing you should know is that you can't take your camera or anything else up there with you (you get to wear a special suit.) This is a bit of a blow given the views from up there are so stunning. Still, you could do some serious damage if something fell from that height.
There is an official website www.bridgeclimb.com and this is where you can book. You should book in advance and choose what time of day you would like to do the climb. The most popular times are dawn (only run once a month on the first Saturday of the month) followed by twilight. It's a good one as you get to see the city in the day and night. You really need to book months in advance to get these slots. You should expect to pay more for these slots too.
The other two times are during the day and then at night. The day time slot can be very hot if you intend to be here in the peak of summer " this is the one that is usually left. The night one is good too as you get to see the city lights but its perhaps not quite as impressive as the other times.
If you arent that bothered about what time you go, Id suggest booking when you get here (provided you can give about one weeks notice) That way you can have a look at the weather forecast and pick the best day. The days when theres not a cloud in the sky are just amazing.
The bridge climb isn't that cheap I'm afraid but it is worth it. The cost is around $250 and for that you'll get a group photograph taken right at the top.
The iconic Sydney harbour has world wide acclaim - the water, the Opera House and of course the Bridge itself. But nothing compares to seeing the harbour from up high, at the top of the Harbour Bridge. The view from up there is stunning.
It's not just about the harbour though, you get to see all of Sydney - its suburbs, waters and on a clear day, you can even see the Blue Mountains.
A symbol of Sydney and even Australia, the Harbour bridge is an institution. In my opinion, it's a masterpiece. You only have to see the New Year's Eve fireworks from the bridge to know why.
The bridge links the city of Sydney or Central Business District (CBD) to the northern suburbs. It is actually the worlds largest (but not longest) steel-arch Bridge and it was opened in 1932.
The climb itself needs a certain level of fitness and you need to be OK with heights! So the bridgeclimb is not for everyone. You need to be able to walk without a stick and its not the type of thing to do if you are pregnant. That said, children from 10 years old can take part in the climb so its not that bad. The total distance is less than 2km and the whole experience from safety demonstrations to finishing the climb takes about 3.5 hours
Most of the walk is on fairly wide walkways so is really easy. The first bit is the hardest bit where you have to climb up steep ladders. There are now two climbs on offer. The first is the original bridge climb which takes you right to the top where you can admire the amazing views
For those of you who want to get to know the bridge a little more, I would recommend the newer climb. This takes you on a behind the scenes tour of the workings of the bridge. You do still get to see the views too.
Safety is critical on the bridge climb and every precaution is taken to ensure your safety. There is a harness to link you to the fellow members of your group so you won't fall off. You get an ear piece so you can hear the instructions and commentary from your guide. There is also a breath test before you leave to make sure no-one is over the limit. Only other thing you should know is that you can't take your camera or anything else up there with you (you get to wear a special suit.) This is a bit of a blow given the views from up there are so stunning. Still, you could do some serious damage if something fell from that height.
There is an official website www.bridgeclimb.com and this is where you can book. You should book in advance and choose what time of day you would like to do the climb. The most popular times are dawn (only run once a month on the first Saturday of the month) followed by twilight. It's a good one as you get to see the city in the day and night. You really need to book months in advance to get these slots. You should expect to pay more for these slots too.
The other two times are during the day and then at night. The day time slot can be very hot if you intend to be here in the peak of summer " this is the one that is usually left. The night one is good too as you get to see the city lights but its perhaps not quite as impressive as the other times.
If you arent that bothered about what time you go, Id suggest booking when you get here (provided you can give about one weeks notice) That way you can have a look at the weather forecast and pick the best day. The days when theres not a cloud in the sky are just amazing.
The bridge climb isn't that cheap I'm afraid but it is worth it. The cost is around $250 and for that you'll get a group photograph taken right at the top.
About the Author:
Jennifer Schellington has nearly half a decade of experience in touring Australia. Her website, www.realaustraliatravel.com gives invaluable information for planning your trip to Australia as well as what to do and where to go. Click here for more helpful hints on Sydney Australia
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