MIDDLE HARBOUR - THE AUSTRIAN CLUB - MANLY DAM: 3 Experiences in One 11kms Hike!

I’m patting myself on the back in planning this event / hike, cause we’re gonna absorb three totally different experiences. This is a superb Sunday session of hiking, food and drinks / Mother Nature in Sydneytown:

a) A challenging hike / trail at Middle Harbour to the stunning Bluff Lookout (don't worry if you did our other Middle Harbour Hike - this is a different section);
b) Lunch at one of the best (if not best) schnitzel joints in Sydney at The Austrian Club; and
c) The more scenic, relaxed, lovely side of Manly Dam.

THE HIKING – EATING – DRINKING PLAN:
10am – Noon. Middle Harbour Hiking, 5kms. Middle Harbour is stunning, and The Bluff Lookout is the prize at the top that’s not to be missed. Yet be aware – sure it’s close to Sydney’s CBD – but this trail has a serious ascent and will be a bit challenging (from Harbour level to 153metres). It’s the perfect start to build up some hunger for lunch.

Noon. The Austrian Club, booked for 30. Wait ‘til you see this establishment – you’ll feel like you’re in rural Austria. It’s so authentic, so friendly, and so delicious. We hiked there a few months back, and no shit a week later it appeared in GOOD FOOD Sydney Morning Herald, and they loved it. Sundays have Austrian music going too – it’s a real laugh. They open at noon – let’s order right away and beat the queue. Their MENU IS HERE. If you want to drop off at this point, no stress – food coma might kick in, and you’ll need a Sunday siesta. I respect that. For the rest of us…

115pm Manly Dam Hiking, 6kms. One hour and 15minutes will be enough to eat / drink a couple of beers then head off to Manly Dam. “Manly Dam, also known as Manly Warringah War Memorial Park, is a freshwater lake and bushland reserve located in Manly Vale, Sydney. Created by damming Curl Curl Creek in 1892, it is Sydney's largest freshwater lake. The dam is a popular spot for various recreational activities like walking, mountain biking, water skiing, swimming, and fishing. It also holds significant heritage value and features diverse flora and fauna.”

Manly Dam will be a relaxed trail hike – a perfect way to end the Sunday. Our walk finishes right on the B1 bus line – easy to head back home.

The LOGISTICS:
a) Be on time. Be safe. Be fit for the ascent.
b) 141 Bus drops right at Seaforth Oval, our meeting point. I imagine there’s parking there too? I don’t know (DIY research drivers). I’ll be on that bus. Please be savvy with the planning apps and find it.
c) Cancels (day before or on the day) / no shows. Nope. Don’t do it. The Austrian Club has my credit card for the reso, and the workers are volunteers – if you RSVP “Attend” then show up.
d) $10 for this one. Cash or PayID.
e) Bring good energy. Bring mates or dates. Chat. And laughs. Let's have some grand fun in Mother Nature.
f) Don't forget "Connections" after the event - maybe a new mate / date awaits.

See you for a beautiful and fun Sunday! MJ