Road trip in a Kombi to Sydney’s Northern Beaches
So often we step on a land without even wondering about its past, the stories behind it, and the events that once occurred there and make it what it is today. Australia is an ancient land with a relatively new history as a nation, yet endless tales of quests and new beginnings await in its most unexpected spots. A few days ago I was delighted to join my friend Jenny on a road trip to Sydney’s Northern Beaches, a place that I hadn’t had the chance to discover as yet, little did I know how fulfilling this encounter would be. As tourists in our city, we had the opportunity to discover these hidden gems Sydney has to offer.
And since a kombi is the quintessential summer ride, our road trip got even better with the retro vibes courtesy of Kombiweddings. (In case you are planning your wedding). It was lovely to have Wendy, the lady boss behind this tour concept tailored for weddings, as our personal guide who walked and drove us through wonderful locations that would please any world traveler. Did I mention she also had the perfect 60’s and 70’s rock selection? a time capsule indeed!
Photo via See Taste Do
First stop. The Boat House in Palm Beach for a quick breakfast whilst enjoying the local atmosphere and view, it was quite cloudy but that didn’t ruin its charm, definitely an #Instaworthy spot.
We were keen enough for a short hike to reach the panoramic views of Broken Bay, and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, but we went further and also found the Lighthouse, positioned 91 meters above sea level and with a one-kilometer walking track to get to the top, which is an easy walk offering outstanding views along the way. For those who are keen for a challenging short hike, take the Smugglers track to the top. Getting its name from the customs officers who built the track circa 1850 to monitor any smugglers bringing contraband into Broken Bay, it now offers a steeper and shorter trek to the lighthouse.
Image credit See Taste Do
At noon it was time to recharge our batteries, so for lunch we decided to visit the area of Quarantine Station, which aside from being a fine and peaceful retreat for those who love hidden beaches and laidback atmospheres. It is also a place known for intriguing stories about ghosts and paranormal activity, which may be associated with the events that once took place there. such as the quarantine station which operated from 14 August 1832 to 29 February 1984. The idea behind it was that anyone arriving in the colony (as it was back then) who might have an infectious disease would be kept in quarantine until it was considered safe to release them. But sadly five hundred immigrants died in this place The station is now home to a hotel, conference center, and restaurant complex known as Q Station, where we actually enjoyed a delicious meal.
We browsed the little museum where we caught up with the history of this area, a bit of drama, a bit spooky but above all interesting testimony of those who arrived in this remote land from different places around the world.
Whether exploring as a tourist or rediscovering as a local, the Northern Beaches are definitely a destination full of surprises, and if you can do it on a Kombi all the better!
For more info about Kombiweddings visit their website or follow via Instagram
Thanks for your visit!
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