Ride10
City Ride 10 - The Photographer's Dream: Rushcutters Bay to Rozelle
This ride is packed with little detours to check out the views and historic architecture of the inner harbour. If you’re that kind of crazy—or just want to know where every premier water-themed photography spot is hiding in the City of Sydney—this is the ride for you.
This article includes an updated version of the 3D animation tracing the edge from Rushcutters Bay to the new Rozelle Parklands via the brand new Sydney Fish Markets. It’s a terrific explore designed to be broken up; take the shortcuts, make your own mini-loops, or tackle the whole thing if you’re keen.
The Pro Tip: If you want to line up great photo after great photo, start this ride at Rushcutters Bay at the crack of dawn. The sun seems to hit every major landmark—Elizabeth Bay, Mrs Mac’s Chair, the Opera House, Barangaroo—perfectly as you make your way west.
Whatever you do, don’t forget to take at least three photos.
Here is the map and the RideWithGPS links
RideWithGPS City Ride Collection (ride 10) On CycleSydney Map
Let’s now look at some of the highlights .
Elizabeth Bay Leaving the flats of Rushcutters Bay, you climb towards Kings Cross before ducking down into Elizabeth Bay. This detour reveals unique harbour views hidden amongst some of the city's most stunning historic multi-story buildings.
Woolloomooloo This dockside borough usually serves up a mix of naval vessels and waterfront statues. It’s also the perfect spot for a classic pie and peas at Harry’s Cafe de Wheels. To exit, head south down Bourke Street to Cathedral Street, making your way on-road toward the Art Gallery.
Mrs Macquarie’s Chair This leg offers a fantastic switch to the open greenery of the Domain. You definitely should take the detour to spot Brett Whiteley's giant matchsticks just before the Art Gallery. Then, hug the harbour's edge for the final payoff: the roll out to Mrs Macquarie's Chair and that classic view of the Opera House and Bridge framing the water. Remember, you are not allowed to ride through the Botanical Gardens
Video link to riding Mrs Macs here
The Opera House Ride through the Domain and take the on-road descent straight to the Opera House. You can do a slow loop under the sails, but expect the crowds to thicken from here all the way to the Bridge. It’s one of the world’s most popular tourist attractions—just be happy you can ride right up to it and around the busy Wharfs.
Barangaroo and Darling Harbour Just stick to the water's edge and go slowly around dodging the crowds. Unless it’s raining, this stretch is almost as busy as the Opera House, so going early really pays off. Photo opportunities are everywhere as you navigate the loop, passing under Pyrmont Bridge (the one with all the sails) twice.
Pyrmont You’ll now navigate the wooden planks of Pyrmont Bay, following the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Walk all the way around to the Anzac Bridge. The crowds are quite thin over here, making the ride across the old wharfs plenty of fun. Once you’re under the shadows of the huge Anzac Bridge, look out for the historic old swing bridge nearby.
Blackwattle Bay Take your time going under the Anzac Bridge, maybe even cutting through the old Fish Markets. The contrast between the "old fishy dump" and the colossal new Sydney Fish Markets is worthy of a photo or two. You may want to stop for fish and chips and the new joint, but bring your lock—you'll need to leave your bicycle at the huge doors.
Rozelle Bay Continue around to Rozelle Bay, which joins directly with Blackwattle Bay. The path here is narrow and busy, but the views are superb, with dragon boats and rowers often adding a splash of color to the scenery. Finish up by crossing into the Rozelle Parklands, where you can hop onto Ride 3 to return over the Anzac Bridge back to the city.
