Running in Sydney

By Ben Stephens.

There is something about this harbour city that makes the idea of a morning run almost palatable… if only for that morning Instagram #sunrise. Though as the sun rises later and the need to keep active in the colder months becomes apparent, it might be time to get to know some of the finest runs around the city. If you are looking for a harbour sprint or a more of a half marathon morning, we have come up with a number of routes to get your run on. We also came up with a helpful map for you and if you ever need a running buddy, ask the team on check in, there are always someone who would be keen to belt out a morning sprint.

Hyde Park 2km

Start slow and keep a solid pace. This little morning dash will take you down to the southern end of the inner city oasis before tacking the northern conclusion. Stop by the Archibald Fountain and really take time to enjoy the sunrise over Saint Marys Cathedral.

A photo posted by @saschalexander30 on Mar 4, 2016 at 7:07am PST

Harbour Bridge and back 7km

If you like to attack some stairs, this is the one for you. Make your way through the city and aim for the big Coat Hanger, your first set of stairs is followed by another as you make your way to bridge level. Once over the bridge, take in the view from the northern side before making your way back over, finishing with a run through the heart of the city.

A photo posted by Neha Dhupia (@nehadhupia) on Mar 21, 2016 at 8:21am PDT

Pyrmont Bridge 8km

This bridge run is a little flatter and doesn’t involve as many stairs… so immediately a more of a favourite of mine. Heading out and across the Pyrmont footbridge will have you on the wharves within minutes. Then take in the early morning of Darling Harbour as you make your way up to join the early morning King Street hustle.

A photo posted by Salome Krzyzaniak (@salomette.k) on Mar 23, 2016 at 4:51pm PDT

Mrs Macquarie’s Chair and Circular Quay 9km

This is the classic Sydney run starting with a taste of Hyde Park, into the Domain and then on to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, around the Opera House and then into the guts of Circular Quay. You could turn around here, but aim higher, push yourself for that next five kilometres. Take in the sights from under the Bridge and over to the newest parkland in Sydney at Barangaroo, then make a speed sprint back to your bed through the city.

A photo posted by @gracestrawbridge on Mar 22, 2016 at 1:38am PDT

Centennial Park 12km

Time and energy are but two of the many things you’ll need for this one. Starting in the city, taking in Paddington and then finally getting into the Centennial Park. This is where the big loop begins, do an extra one for fun if you like. Once you have finished here, run past the famous Sydney Cricket Ground on your way back into the city to take on the George Street rise. As you turn onto Market street, high five the team at the door of QT Sydney, they’ll be impressed.

A photo posted by Keith ‘Buzz’ (@keithbuzzlightyear) on Mar 22, 2016 at 10:57pm PDT