ESCAPADES > Sydney, Australia

            Sydney Harbour is commonly referred to as the most beautiful natural harbour in the world. Those who come to see it will understand why. A large harbour with many bays, inlets and secondary harbours, it has not been built out like many of the world's great harbours. Although there are exclusive homes dotted around the water's edge, there are large tracts of parklands, reserves and gardens that balance the harbour environmentally. It is possible to walk around much of the harbour edge and picnic in many spots.  On a warm sunny day, the harbour is a vibrant blue and dotted with hundreds of sailing boats, cruise boats and ferries. 

            The best way of seeing the harbour is to be on it and that's easy to do. Sydney Ferries, which are also government run, provide an inexpensive way of seeing the most beautiful harbour in the world. (See map of ferry cruises around Sydney Harbour.) 

            Another way of seeing the harbour, and gaining some perspective on its size and beauty, is to walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge and go to the top of the Pylon Tower. From here, for a very small cost, you will get is a magnifient view of the harbour, the city skyline, the Opera House, The Rocks, Darling Harbour and North Sydney. The traffic passing underneath is also quite spectacular. 

            Another way of seeing the harbour from a lofty position is to take the lift to the top of Sydney Tower, Australia's highest man-made structure. Here there is a revolving restaturant where you can have lunch.

Check these out: