If you are planning a trip to Sydney Australia then you really should consider doing the Harbour bridgeclimb.
The iconic Sydney harbour has world wide acclaim - the water, the Opera House and of course the Bridge itself. But nothing compares to seeing the harbour from up high, at the top of the Harbour Bridge. The view from up there is stunning.
But you get more than that - you get 360 degree views of Sydney in its entirety. From its suburbs to its waters and even the Blue Mountains on a blue sky day.
The Harbour Bridge is an icon across the world not only for Sydney but for Australia. It is quite simply a masterpiece. No-one could have missed the amazing fireworks every New Year's Eve that get set off right on the bridge.
Believe it or not, the bridge is the world's largest steel-arch bridge. It was opened in 1932 to link the northern Sydney suburbs with the CBD (Central Business District)
Providing you don't have an issue with heights and have a reasonable level of fitness, you can do the climb. It's not advisable if you are pregnant of if you can't walk unaided without a stick for example. Children from 10 years up can take part in the climb so that should give you a sense of the level of fitness you need - not that much. The climb takes about 3.5 hours but that includes the safety video an briefing. All in all it's under 2km.
The first section of the climb is the most difficult as this involves walking up steep ladders. But once you have done this, the rest is pretty easy as you are walking on wide walkways. There are in fact two types of climbs that you can do. The first is the original climb and is the one where you get to climb to the very top and see the amazing views.
If you are into your bridges then go for the newer climb. This climb takes you for a behind the scenes look at the workings of the bridge. You still get to see those wonderful views too.
As you can imagine, those in charge of the climb take safety very seriously. Firstly, you are all linked together with a harness so there is no chance you could fall off! Secondly, you have to wear an ear piece so that you can hear the commentary and any instructions from your guide. Thirdly, there's a no alcohol policy with everyone having a breath test before taking part. Other things you should know is that you can't take anything up with you on the climb including your camera. Dropping something from that height could do someone some serious damage. It is a shame though given the views are so good from up there.
The official website is www.bridgeclimb.com and it is easy to book your climb. First thing you need to decide is what time to do the climb? Dawn and Twilight are the most popular. Dawn is only run on the first Saturday of the month so you can imagine how quickly those slots go - book well in advance for this one. Twilight is good because you get to see the city in the day and evening. Book a month or so in advance to get this time slot. You should also expect these options to cost a little more.
The other two times are during the day and then at night. The day time slot can be very hot if you intend to be here in the peak of summer " this is the one that is usually left. The night one is good too as you get to see the city lights but its perhaps not quite as impressive as the other times.
If you arent that bothered about what time you go, Id suggest booking when you get here (provided you can give about one weeks notice) That way you can have a look at the weather forecast and pick the best day. The days when theres not a cloud in the sky are just amazing.
The price for the bridgeclimb is a little on the steep side. You can expect to pay around $250 for the experience. Youll get a group photo thrown in for that too.
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