At this time of year, everyone here in Scotland is wrapping up against the cold climate, while down under they are enjoying the start of their summer. Reflecting on the time I spent in Australia – this time last year – I was reminded of the excellent experience climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge; something I would recommend to everyone.
Myself and one of my colleagues booked the climb online a few days in advance, but it can be done much further ahead of time, which is recommended if you wish to do the evening walk which is very popular. We walked the short distance from our hotel through the Rocks area of Sydney past the various bars and excellent restaurants to the start point under the main highway of the bridge. After check in and being allocated to our group (around a dozen of us) we were given a safety briefing and were provided with all of the equipment we required based on the weather that day. It should be noted that, for safety reasons, you are not allowed to take cameras and all items have to be securely attached to you to avoid anything falling down onto the highway below.
Our group was a mixed bunch from the UK, Denmark and also a local from Sydney, ranging from around 16 years old to mid 50’s I would estimate (and all in varying degrees of fitness). I was concerned prior to the trip about being fit enough but it really was not difficult and our entire group completed the climb easily. We then set off on a gantry fixed under the bridge to the stone pylons that ‘book-end’ the bridge itself. The Pylons do not serve any structural need and are just there to make the bridge appear more solid.
We made our way up the stairs through the pylons and then up some ladders to the top surface of the arch. From there it is a leisurely walk up to the highest point of the arch. The views of the city and harbour are fantastic – as you can imagine – and the guide kept us amused throughout with various facts about the bridge and its construction (as well as several anecdotes). At the top, after some photos, we headed back across to the other side to start the descent to base.
The whole experience takes around three and a half hours so it was a great way for us to spend a morning and really get to know one of the world’s most iconic structures in a way it is not usually possible to do. Being located so close to the famous Opera House means it is easy to combine these two fantastic sights into the one day. Check out the Bridge Climb site for full details and to book online.
I would say this is must for anyone visiting Sydney!
By Alastair Niven
