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fun grandfamily trike tour – Joan + Sofia 02.11.24

The fun grandfamily trike tour was for granddaughter and grandmother. From the UK, Joan comes to Sydney for a holiday every year to see her family. Her son organised the trike tour as fun experience for his daughter and his mum.

Martin Place

Pick up was at Martin Place. It is a pedestrian mall in the Sydney CBD. Martin Place has been described as the “civic heart” of Sydney. As home to the Reserve Bank of Australia, the Commonwealth Bank, Macquarie Bank, Westpac and other corporations, it is also a centre of business and finance. The Sydney GPO is also located on Martin Place.

The initial “Martin Place” was the section between George Street and Pitt Street, officially opened 1892, and was named in honour of Sir James Martin, the three time Premier of New South Wales and Chief Justice of Supreme Court of New South Wales. Slowly, more of it was closed to traffic and is now 473 m long.

Opera House

Firstly, they rode north and this brought them to the iconic Sydney Opera House. We can’t ride close but you can see it from a different angle to the usual. The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, but completed by an Australian architectural team headed by Peter Hall, the building was formally opened by Queen Elizabeth II on 20 October 1973.

Macquarie Street

They did a few turns and headed south so they rode along Macquarie Street. It is the location of the main governmental institutions of NSW: Parliament House, Government House, and the Law Courts Building (which houses the Supreme Court of New South Wales). There is so much history behind Macquarie St. and the buildings that front it.

In the years since its founding in 1788, Sydney had developed organically, and by the early 1800s was lacking in major public buildings, and had a complex network of narrow streets. The supply of drinking water and waste management was also becoming an issue. Governor Macquarie initiated the construction of Sydney’s first public buildings of any real permanence and set the boundaries of Sydney’s grid of streets, laying out the street in 1810.

Mrs Macquarie’s Point

Next was Mrs Macquarie’s Point. It has beautiful views looking west towards the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. They ride past Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. Mrs Macquarie’s Chair is an exposed sandstone rock cut into the shape of a bench, on a peninsula in Sydney Harbour. It was hand carved by convicts in 1810, for Elizabeth Macquarie, the wife of Major-General Lachlan Macquarie, Governor of NSW. Already, the fun grandfamily trike tour was an informative and memorable experience.

Art Gallery of NSW

Also along this road is the Art Gallery of NSW. It’s beautiful historic sandstone buildings were built between 1896 and 1909. The Art Gallery of New South Wales began without a collection and without a building on 24 April 1871 when a group of 30 art-loving citizens established a society to support artists and promote knowledge and enjoyment of art in the wider community. In 1874 they secured government support for their project and by 1880 they had their own dedicated building, the first of its kind in Australia.

Woolloomooloo, Harry’s and Garden Island

Further on, Woolloomooloo is known for Finger Wharf, an old cargo dock that attracts a trendy clientele with fine dining, hip bars and water views on all sides. It also has the famous Harry Cafe De Wheels which has been serving customers for over 80 years. They make delicious pies, hotdogs and more. Lots of interesting photos are on the walls, mostly of famous celebrities who have visited over the years. They rode past Garden Island which is the location of a major Royal Australian Navy base. Then it was up the hill and into Potts Point.

Kings Cross

Continuing on, they rode through the infamous Kings Cross, though it has calmed down a lot since it’s heyday – home of the famous and huge Coca Cola sign. Kings Cross is also home to nightclubs and ladies of the night though it is not nearly as raunchy as it was in the 1970s (apparently).

Eastern suburbs

Heading east was next, through the posh suburbs of the eastern suburbs of Sydney, including the Bays: Rose Bay, Double Bay and Rushcutters Bay.

North Bondi and Ben Buckler Point Lookout

They headed further east to the famous Bondi Beach. There are a couple of lookouts at the North Bondi headland. They all offer beautiful views of Bondi Beach and out to the Tasman Sea, part of the South Pacific Ocean. The rider stopped here for a few photos and so they could admire the view.

Bondi Beach

Slightly south, and it was past the world famous Bondi Beach. Here, there is a lovely view overlooking the whole of Bondi Beach. The beach was made extra famous by the TV series “Bondi Rescue” and is one of the most visited tourist sites in Australia. Bondi Beach is recorded by the Australian Museum that Bondi means place where a fight using boondi sticks (nullas nullas or fighting sticks) took place. Even our passengers knew about “Bondi Rescue”.

Tamarama Beach

Then, they rode further north to the tiny but picturesque Tamarama Beach. It’s lovely to look out to the South Pacific Ocean from any of the beaches. Initially known as Dixon Bay by early European settlers, the name was changed to Tamarama in the 1800s. Tamarama is probably a derivation of the Aboriginal name ‘Gamma Gamma’ (possibly meaning ‘storm’), which appeared on maps of the coastline in the 1860s by the Military or Naval Authority.

Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve

Next, it was to the Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve. This extends from the southern end of Bronte Beach to the rock baths at Coogee Beach and out to 100 m offshore. It covers an area of approximately 40 hectares and includes 4,000m of coastline.

The objectives of the aquatic reserve is:

1. conserve the biodiversity of fish and marine vegetation
2. protect fish habitat
3. facilitate educational activities
4. facilitate scientific research.

Queens Park

Queens Park is a 26-hectare urban park, set in a natural amphitheatre at the foot of dramatic sandstone cliffs, with panoramic views of the Sydney region. It’s right next to the famous Centennial Park so they rode through it. So far, the fun grandfamily trike tour experience has already been very fun and informative.

Centennial Park

There are many gates into and out of Centennial Park, so they rode in through the ones closest to Queens Park. Centennial Park was originally a swamp and then set aside as land for the water source for Sydney. Centennial Park was reconstructed as a public park and opened in 1888. Sir Henry Parkes’ vision was to create a ‘People’s Park’ in which the citizens of Sydney could ‘take in the air’ away from the Sydney town centre.

In it’s 130th year (2018), Centennial Park – the ‘People’s Park – has been honoured with an Australian National Heritage Listing. This elevates the Park to the status of other National Heritage places such as Bondi Beach, the Melbourne Cricket Ground and the Australian War Memorial.

‘Great Inaugural Procession’

Centennial Park has outstanding heritage value to the nation. It’s the site chosen for one of the defining events in Australia’s history: the inauguration of the Commonwealth of Australia.

The inauguration event held at Centennial Park on 1 January 1901 was a key moment in Australia’s progression to a unified Commonwealth. The six colonies of South Australia, Western Australia, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland were brought together as one.

These actions marked the creation of a new democracy. From this moment, on 1 January 1901, the Commonwealth of Australia became a self-governing nation.

Oxford Street

There was enough time to ride down the famous Oxford Street. The western section of Oxford Street, which runs through the suburbs of Paddington and Darlinghurst, is widely recognised as Sydney’s main gay district and Oxford Street is closed to traffic once a year in early March for the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

Hyde Park

Then, it was past Australia’s oldest park which is also one of the most well-known. Hyde Park offers 16 hectares of wide open space in the heart of central Sydney.

The Anzac Memorial

Lastly, they rode past the Anzac Memorial at the southern end of Hyde Park. It honours all who served in the AIF (Australian Imperial Force) during the WW1, including those who had returned.

However, the 1.5 hrs was up so they were dropped back at Martin place. In conclusion, the fun grandfamily trike tour was exactly that. The organiser emailed us, “…They thoroughly enjoyed the ride and said the rider was a brilliant guide…”.

Check out the tour here but remember, every tour is unique.

Book here!

10 facts about Sydney that’ll blow your mind

01 November 2024. If you’re the type of traveller who really likes to get to grips with a destination’s hidden histories and sordid secrets, you’re in luck! Sydney is brimming with brilliant revelations below its sun-soaked, café-strewn surface. Here are 10 facts about Sydney…

We’re not just talking mildly interesting figures on how much it cost to construct the Sydney Opera House. Or basic titbits about how long Sydney has officially been dubbed a metropolis. Instead, we’ve dug deep into the history of this awesome Aussie city! Bringing you 10 facts about Sydney that’ll really blow your mind (promise).

1. Sydney was not the original name choice for the city

Believe it or not, Sydney wasn’t the first choice for this iconic city’s title. Back in 1788, when the first colony was founded at Sydney Cove, the fleet’s commander Captain Arthur Philip wanted to dub it New Albion. He was overruled in favour of naming the region city after Lord Sydney. Lord Sydney is the wily British home secretary who first came up with the idea of banishing convicts all the way in the Land Down Under.

Despite the fact he never even set foot on Australian soil, we still reckon it’s a whole lot catchier than Albion.

2. Trendy Surry Hills used to be the base of a female-run crime syndicate

While it’s now known for its hip brunch spots and charming village vibe, Surry Hills wasn’t always so salubrious. Sydney was founded as a convict colony. So it won’t come as too much of a surprise to learn that crime was rife during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In fact, its wayward inhabitants – including two rival female mobsters – helped earn it the (awesome or awful?) nickname “Sin City” in the 1920s. Surry Hills was the headquarters of one such gang. Specifically the Frog Hollow slum that’s now an attractive nature reserve on the corner of Albion Street and Riley Street.

3. There’s a massive underground lake beneath one of the city’s train stations

If you find yourself catching a train in or out of St James station on the edge of Sydney’s Hyde Park, consider this: that platform you’re impatiently waiting for your train to pull into is likely located right above an enormous subterranean lake. We. Kid. You. Not.

The huge body of water is a kilometre long. Formed after one of the station’s four disused underground tunnels was flooded.

Once a swimming hole, it’s now only accessible on rare history tours. Or via the train tracks beyond the tunnel to anyone who fancies themselves a fearless urban explorer. We wouldn’t recommend this, though, as it’s technically trespassing.

4. Sydney is home to one of the world’s most deadly spiders

Arachnophobes may want to give this fascinating Sydney fact a miss. Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ll definitely be aware of Australia’s numerous deadly animals. From slithering snakes to insidious insects that can paralyse you with just one bite.

The Sydney Funnel Web Spider is one such creepy crawly and as its name suggests, it’s native to the city and surrounding region. If one gets its fangs into you, its venom will kill you within the hour unless you get to a hospital pronto. Ouch.

5. The city has a floating forest

If your brain has gone into overdrive wondering exactly how a floating forest works, let us enlighten. Back in the 1970s, the decommissioned freighter SS Ayrfield – which was used to transport supplies during WWII – was one of four ships sent to Homebush Bay in northwest Sydney’s to be dismantled.

Well, that never happened and they were instead left to rot in the bay. In the SS Ayrfield’s case, mangrove trees began pushing through its hull and eventually sprouted across the ship. You can spot the wreck from The Promenade shoreline and it really does look like a speck of verdant woodland floating on the water.

So far, we hope you are enjoying the 10 facts about Sydney!

6. Around a third of Sydney’s residents were born overseas

Sydney is undeniably one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world – all you need to do is look at the maths for proof. Censuses show that almost 40% of the city’s residents were born in another country, plus you’ll hear chit-chatter in over 200 different dialects as you stroll Sydney’s streets. This is all great news for visitors, as it means it’s absolutely inundated with fabulous spots to slurp on fragrant bowls of pho, tweezer delectable dim sum and get your hands greasy eating some of the best pizza in the Southern Hemisphere.

7. Sydney Harbour Bridge was only painted grey because of a shortage of paint

You can’t go all the way to Sydney without clapping eyes on the city’s legendary Harbour Bridge. The structure’s dull shade may seem a little uninspiring when you consider the bright tones of other famous bridges, however, its colour option was purely down to practicality rather than aesthetics.

With over of 270,000 litres of paint needed to cover Sydney Harbour Bridge’s magnificent bulk, grey was the only hue available in such a massive quantity. A full-time team (including two robots) are currently employed to touch up its paintwork every five years – a job which takes almost two months.

Want to know another fun Sydney fact? Paul Hogan (aka Crocodile Dundee) was one of the bridge’s first official painters before he found fame as a knife-wielding, crocodile-poaching survivalist on the silver screen.

8. You’ll find the longest moving walkway in a carpark near Woolloomooloo Bay

They do make you feel like someone has just pressed the fast-forward button in real life. While they’re super convenient, moving walkways are hardly a major attraction. That is unless you’re travelling along the longest, still existing moving walkway on the planet…

It is tucked away in the underground carpark of The Domain (an 84-acre open air events space in Woolloomooloo Bay). The novel Domain Moving Walkway stretches for 207 metres and whizzes you effortlessly all the way to College Street and the northern tip of Hyde Park. We reckon it’s worth riding along using your feet, not the trike 😂. Are we achieving our goal of making you want to visit Sydney with these 10 facts about Sydney?

9. Sydney is the birthplace of the Granny Smith apple (and there’s even an annual festival in the fruits’ honour)

Thought the Granny Smith hailed from merry old England? Incorrect. This popular pie filler was in fact cultivated in the Eastbank district of Sydney way back in 1868. Legend has it that it was completely by accident. The lady behind the tart apple variety was Maria Ann Smith. She emigrated to Sydney from the UK in 1838 with her husband.

She grew French crab apples in her garden and supposedly, when cooking them, would toss the unwanted cores out of her kitchen window. Onto the compost heap where eventually a brand-new seedling began to grow. The rest is, as they say, history and Eastbank has even hosted a Granny Smith Festival in mid-October since 1985. Expect to see people dressed in apple-printed t-shirts! Dozens of market stalls selling apple-themed treats. Also, novice bakers going head to head in an apple baking competition.

10. Bondi Beach hosted one of the biggest ever bikini photo shoots in 2007

It would be a crime to jet all the way to Sydney and not enjoy at least one arvo (that’s afternoon in the local lingo) on Bondi Beach. It’s one of over 100 beaches around the city and where thousands of wannabe surfer dudes and golden-skinned posers flock every year. They catch a wave, soak up some vitamin D and attempt to grill burgers on one of the coin-operated barbies.

Want to know a seriously glam Sydney fact about Bondi? The Aussie city is no stranger to world records and on the 26th September 2007, Bondi Beach hosted the world’s largest bikini photo shoot. According to the Guinness Book of Records, 1010 sun-kissed Aussies posed in their bathers along the sand. Sadly, the accolade was snatched from Bondi less than a year later. Russia hosted its own record-smashing photo shoot on Riviera Beach in Sochi.

Thanks to Orbzii for the above article, check their app page here. We hope you enjoyed reading the 10 facts about Sydney and learnt something. We sure learnt something and we have lived here all our life. They didn’t pay us and we are not paying them for this. I just run out of interesting articles for our Blog Page.

In conclusion, we can take you on a fun Harley Davidson or Chopper trike to some of the places mentioned above. For obvious reasons, we can’t take you to the underground lake 😆 but we can show you Bondi Beach and take you over the Sydney Harbour Bridge!

3Bridges and city tour – Peter + Vanessa 31.10.24

The 3Bridges and city tour in Sydney was for our passengers from New Zealand. What better way to see Sydney than from the back of a Harley (or trike 😆). Originally they thought they would go to Manly but had decided they were going there tomorrow. So, after talking to the Harley Davidson riders, they decided to do the 3 Bridges tour and add on part of Sydney city. They had 1.5 hours to explore with us.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Firstly, they rode over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. We always tell our passengers to look up and enjoy the unique view. he more than 6,000,000 rivets are so interesting and the arch is so iconic. It’s nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’ because of its arch-based design. It is the largest steel arch bridge in the world. This bridge is the eighth longest spanning-arch bridge in the world and the tallest steel arch bridge, measuring 134 m (440 ft) from top to water level. It was also the world’s widest long-span bridge, at 48.8 m (160 ft) wide, until a bridge in Canada was completed in 2012.

Kirribilli

Next, they rode past Kirribilli House. Kirribilli House is the secondary official residence of the Prime Minister of Australia. After that, they rode around the corner to Jeffrey Street Wharf. From here, the views across Sydney Harbour towards the Sydney Opera House and the CBD are magnificent. In addition, it also has an up-close view of the side and underneath of the bridge. A perfect place to stop for photos. What a great view of the Sydney Opera House!

The Kirribilli Loop

They rode under the north side of the bridge and continued on their tour. The underside of the northern end of the SHB – Sydney Harbour Bridge – is very interesting. The Kirribilli Loop was finished by riding past Luna Park and the North Sydney Olympic Pool.

Blues Point Reserve

Continuing on, they rode on through Milsons Point, did a left hand turn and rode up a few streets. This lead to Blues Point Reserve. The views over Blues Bay towards the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the CBD are just stunning. All the more stunning because of the lovely weather. Another perfect place for photos, it’s where this photo was taken.

They continued riding on through North Sydney and Crows Nest before joining River Road. It is a fun road to ride on. River Road leads to Burns Bay Road which, in turn, leads to another bridge but not one of the main three. So far, the 3Bridges and city tour in Sydney, on Harley Davidsons, was already so much fun.

Fig Tree Bridge, Tarban Creek Bridge, Gladesville Bridge

The first bridge is an old but smallish bridge – the Fig Tree Bridge. It opened in 1963 and spans the Lane Cove River. After that bridge, they continued on and crossed the second of the bridges Tarban Creek Bridge. This spans Tarban Creek, likewise, it has nice views east to the Harbour Bridge. Then they got to bridge #2 of the main 3 Bridges, the Gladesville Bridge. It has wonderful views along Parramatta River towards the Harbour Bridge and the city.

Gladesville Bridge is a heritage-listed concrete arch road bridge that carries Victoria Road over the Parramatta River, from the western suburbs to the city (or vice versa). It was the first 305-metre (1,000 ft) span concrete bridge in the world and had a substantial number of engineering and technical elements that made it a world-leading bridge design and construction achievement. It was also the first bridge, if not one of the first bridges, to utilise computer programming in its construction.

This bridge is on the main arterial thoroughfare of Victoria Road – from the western suburbs to the city (or vice versa).

Bay Run

Then, they did a detour off the main arterial road through the inner west suburbs of Rozelle, Lilyfield, Haberfield, Five Dock and Drummoyne. They followed part of the Bay Run. It is a 7km long (4.3 mi) shared use path for cyclists and pedestrians that encircles much of Iron Cove. It never deviates more than 20m from the water so the views are pretty nice.

ANZAC Bridge

Riding over our favourite bridge, the ANZAC Bridge, is an experience. We think it is incredible, a work of art and design. It is main bridge #3. Similarly, it is also great to see without a roof over your head inhibiting the view.

Most noteworthy, the stay cable design concept development and final design for the new bridge were carried out by the Roads & Traffic Authority of NSW. Finally, the bridge was opened to traffic on 03 December 1995 as the Glebe Island Bridge.

The bridge was given its current name on Remembrance Day in 1998 to honour the memory of the soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (known as ANZACs) who served in World War I.

Barangaroo

Then, they rode down the road that leads through the comparatively new development of Barangaroo. A spectacular transformation from a disused container terminal on the edge of Sydney’s CBD into a spectacular 22-hectare waterfront precinct.

Crown Casino

Next, they rode past Crown Sydney (also referred to as One Barangaroo), is a skyscraper in Barangaroo, Australia. It stands at a height of 271.3 m (890 ft) with 75 floors, making it the tallest building in Sydney and 4th tallest building in Australia. Construction first began in October 2016 and was completed in December 2020.

Harbour Bridge Southern Side

Then, it was along Hickson Road was next, and under the southern end of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. What a wonderful view! The 3Bridges and city tour, on Harleys, in Sydney is certainly worth doing.

Opera House

Of course, one needs to see the iconic Sydney Opera House. We can’t ride close but you can see it from a different angle to the usual. The Sydney Opera House is a multi-venue performing arts centre. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, but completed by an Australian architectural team headed by Peter Hall, the building was formally opened by Queen Elizabeth II on 20 October 1973.

The Rocks

Also interesting, is the Rocks. It’s the most historic place in Australia, the Rocks. It is a neighbourhood of historic laneways in the shadow of Sydney Harbour Bridge. The Rocks became established shortly after the colony’s formation in 1788 so it is the oldest residential, developed area in Australia – the birthplace of modern Sydney. With the arrival of European settlers in 1788, it was here that the convicts first set up house and shop.

However, the 1.5 hours was nearly up. The Harley riders dropped the passengers back at their hotel in the Rocks. In conclusion, the 3Bridges and city tour in Sydney was fun, scenic and memorable – for all the right reasons.

Check out some ideas here!

Granddaughter’s Sydney trike tour – George + Shadae 27.10.24

The surprise granddaughter’s Sydney trike tour was organised by her grandparents. They had brought her and themselves to Sydney for a weekend getaway. A trike ride was a good way to have fun and see parts of Sydney.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Firstly, they rode over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. We always tell our passengers to look up and enjoy the unique view. he more than 6,000,000 rivets are so interesting and the arch is so iconic. It’s nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’ because of its arch-based design. It is the largest steel arch bridge in the world. This bridge is the eighth longest spanning-arch bridge in the world and the tallest steel arch bridge, measuring 134 m (440 ft) from top to water level. It was also the world’s widest long-span bridge, at 48.8 m (160 ft) wide, until a bridge in Canada was completed in 2012.

Kirribilli

Next, they rode past Kirribilli House. Kirribilli House is the secondary official residence of the Prime Minister of Australia. After that, they rode around the corner to Jeffrey Street Wharf. From here, the views across Sydney Harbour towards the Sydney Opera House and the CBD are magnificent. In addition, it also has an up-close view of the side and underneath of the bridge. A perfect place to stop for photos. What a great view of the Sydney Opera House!

The Kirribilli Loop

They rode under the north side of the bridge and continued on their tour. The underside of the northern end of the SHB – Sydney Harbour Bridge – is very interesting. The Kirribilli Loop was finished by riding past Luna Park and the North Sydney Olympic Pool.

Blues Point Reserve

Continuing on, they rode on through Milsons Point, did a left hand turn and rode up a few streets. This lead to Blues Point Reserve. The views over Blues Bay towards the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the CBD are just stunning. All the more stunning because of the lovely weather. Another perfect place for photos, it’s where this photo was taken

They continued riding on through North Sydney and Crows Nest before joining River Road. It is a fun road to ride on. River Road leads to Burns Bay Road which, in turn, leads to another bridge but not one of the main three. So far, the granddaughter’s Sydney trike tour was already so much fun.

Fig Tree Bridge, Tarban Creek Bridge, Gladesville Bridge

The next bridge is an old but smallish bridge – the Fig Tree Bridge. It opened in 1963 and spans the Lane Cove River. After that bridge, they continued on and crossed the second of the bridges Tarban Creek Bridge. This spans Tarban Creek, likewise, it has nice views east to the Harbour Bridge. Then they got to bridge #2 of the main 3 Bridges, the Gladesville Bridge. It has wonderful views along Parramatta River towards the Harbour Bridge and the city.

Gladesville Bridge is a heritage-listed concrete arch road bridge that carries Victoria Road over the Parramatta River, from the western suburbs to the city (or vice versa). It was the first 305-metre (1,000 ft) span concrete bridge in the world and had a substantial number of engineering and technical elements that made it a world-leading bridge design and construction achievement. It was also the first bridge, if not one of the first bridges, to utilise computer programming in its construction.

This bridge is on the main arterial thoroughfare of Victoria Road – from the western suburbs to the city (or vice versa). They headed east and back towards the city.

Bay Run

Then, they did a detour off the main arterial road through the inner west suburbs of Rozelle, Lilyfield, Haberfield, Five Dock and Drummoyne. They followed part of the Bay Run. It is a 7km long (4.3 mi) shared use path for cyclists and pedestrians that encircles much of Iron Cove. It never deviates more than 20m from the water so the views are pretty nice.

ANZAC Bridge

Riding over our favourite bridge, the ANZAC Bridge, is an experience. We think it is incredible, a work of art and design. It is main bridge #3. Similarly, it is also great to see without a roof over your head inhibiting the view.

Most noteworthy, the stay cable design concept development and final design for the new bridge were carried out by the Roads & Traffic Authority of NSW. Finally, the bridge was opened to traffic on 03 December 1995 as the Glebe Island Bridge.

The bridge was given its current name on Remembrance Day in 1998 to honour the memory of the soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (known as ANZACs) who served in World War I.

However, the 1 hour was up so our trike rider dropped the passengers back at the hotel. In conclusion, the surprise granddaughter’s Sydney trike tour was a great experience, a big success – and so much fun! They saw so much that the average traveller to Sydney – and most Sydneyites – don’t and had so much fun at the same time.

Feel the Freedom! Check the tour out here! It’s our second most popular tour, the Eastern Panorama is our #1. Don’t forget, every tour is unique so the route may detour slightly, depending on traffic or if you’d like to see something else on the way.

Book Here!

Husband’s surprise Harley ride – Shah 27.10.24

Husband’s surprise Harley ride was organised by his wife Louise. It’s his birthday today so they went out for breakfast. Our Harley rider met them at near the cafe, in the Rocks. Shah has been wanting to buy a Harley so Lou thought it would be a good way for him to actually experience being on a Harley.

They went on an adapted version of the 3 Bridges ride.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Firstly, they rode over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. We always tell our passengers to look up and enjoy the unique view. he more than 6,000,000 rivets are so interesting and the arch is so iconic. It’s nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’ because of its arch-based design. It is the largest steel arch bridge in the world. This bridge is the eighth longest spanning-arch bridge in the world and the tallest steel arch bridge, measuring 134 m (440 ft) from top to water level. It was also the world’s widest long-span bridge, at 48.8 m (160 ft) wide, until a bridge in Canada was completed in 2012.

Kirribilli

Next, they rode past Kirribilli House. Kirribilli House is the secondary official residence of the Prime Minister of Australia. After that, they rode around the corner to Jeffrey Street Wharf. From here, the views across Sydney Harbour towards the Sydney Opera House and the CBD are magnificent. In addition, it also has an up-close view of the side and underneath of the bridge. A perfect place to stop for photos. What a great view of the Sydney Opera House!

The Kirribilli Loop

They rode under the north side of the bridge and continued on their tour. The underside of the northern end of the SHB – Sydney Harbour Bridge – is very interesting. The Kirribilli Loop was finished by riding past Luna Park and the North Sydney Olympic Pool.

Blues Point Reserve

Continuing on, they rode on through Milsons Point, did a left hand turn and rode up a few streets. This lead to Blues Point Reserve. The views over Blues Bay towards the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the CBD are just stunning. All the more stunning because of the lovely weather. Another perfect place for photos, it’s where this photo was taken.

They continued riding on through North Sydney and Crows Nest before joining River Road. It is a fun road to ride on. River Road leads to Burns Bay Road which, in turn, leads to another bridge but not one of the main three. So far, the husband’s surprise Harley ride for his birthday was already so much fun.

Fig Tree Bridge, Tarban Creek Bridge, Gladesville Bridge

The first bridge is an old but smallish bridge – the Fig Tree Bridge. It opened in 1963 and spans the Lane Cove River. After that bridge, they continued on and crossed the second of the bridges Tarban Creek Bridge. This spans Tarban Creek, likewise, it has nice views east to the Harbour Bridge. Then they got to bridge #2 of the main 3 Bridges, the Gladesville Bridge. It has wonderful views along Parramatta River towards the Harbour Bridge and the city.

Gladesville Bridge is a heritage-listed concrete arch road bridge that carries Victoria Road over the Parramatta River, from the western suburbs to the city (or vice versa). It was the first 305-metre (1,000 ft) span concrete bridge in the world and had a substantial number of engineering and technical elements that made it a world-leading bridge design and construction achievement. It was also the first bridge, if not one of the first bridges, to utilise computer programming in its construction.

This bridge is on the main arterial thoroughfare of Victoria Road – from the western suburbs to the city (or vice versa).

Bay Run

Then, they did a detour off the main arterial road through the inner west suburbs of Rozelle, Lilyfield, Haberfield, Five Dock and Drummoyne. They followed part of the Bay Run. It is a 7km long (4.3 mi) shared use path for cyclists and pedestrians that encircles much of Iron Cove. It never deviates more than 20m from the water so the views are pretty nice. The rider rode around the area for longer than usual, so they saw more sights.

However, the hour was up so Shah was dropped at home in the inner west of Sydney. In conclusion, the husband’s surprise Harley ride for his birthday, was a huge success. Part of an email after the tour, “…Shah loved it – big surprise!…”.

Click here for details about the 3 Bridges tour. Don’t forget, each tour is unique!

Book Now!

Harley Davidson birthday tour – Santosh + Shama 20.10.24

🟢🟢🟢🟢🟢 Fantastic service and an even better bike experience!

Oct 2024 • Family

Our experience with Troll Tours was nothing but excellent! I contacted them with a last minute booking and they were able to fit us in without much notice.

My parents loved the ride, as it’s always been their bucket list item and their riders Alan and Phil definitely made the experience better! They saw some great views and got to take photos in front of the Harbour Bridge.

The booking process was easy, and meet up instructions were clear with provided maps so we knew everything going into it. I can’t recommend Troll Tours enough! 🙂

Shamal

Check out their tour here!

Book Now!

Or email us if it’s easier – trevor@trolltours.com.au

mini holiday trike tour – Kelly + Kevin 19.10.24

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Hey, thanks for the ride and photos.

Highly recommended and we will be doing it again.

Kelly

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Harley Davidson birthday tour – Santosh + Shama 20.10.24

The Harley Davidson birthday tour was a surprise! Shamala organised it for her Mum’s birthday and her Dad came along for the ride as well. We emailed a map of where to meet the Harley riders at Circular Quay.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Firstly, they rode over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. We always tell our passengers to look up and enjoy the unique view. he more than 6,000,000 rivets are so interesting and the arch is so iconic. It’s nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’ because of its arch-based design. It is the largest steel arch bridge in the world. This bridge is the eighth longest spanning-arch bridge in the world and the tallest steel arch bridge, measuring 134 m (440 ft) from top to water level. It was also the world’s widest long-span bridge, at 48.8 m (160 ft) wide, until a bridge in Canada was completed in 2012.

Kirribilli

Next, they rode past Kirribilli House. Kirribilli House is the secondary official residence of the Prime Minister of Australia. After that, they rode around the corner to Jeffrey Street Wharf. From here, the views across Sydney Harbour towards the Sydney Opera House and the CBD are magnificent. In addition, it also has an up-close view of the side and underneath of the bridge. A perfect place to stop for photos, it’s where this photo was taken. What a great view of the Sydney Opera House!

The Kirribilli Loop

They rode under the north side of the bridge and continued on their tour. The underside of the northern end of the SHB – Sydney Harbour Bridge – is very interesting. The Kirribilli Loop was finished by riding past Luna Park and the North Sydney Olympic Pool.

Blues Point Reserve

Continuing on, they rode on through Milsons Point, did a left hand turn and rode up a few streets. This lead to Blues Point Reserve. The views over Blues Bay towards the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the CBD are just stunning. All the more stunning because of the lovely weather. Another perfect place for photos.

They continued riding on through North Sydney and Crows Nest before joining River Road. It is a fun road to ride on. River Road leads to Burns Bay Road which, in turn, leads to another bridge but not one of the main three. So far, the surprise Harley Davidson birthday tour was already so much fun.

Fig Tree Bridge, Tarban Creek Bridge, Gladesville Bridge

The next bridge is an old but smallish bridge – the Fig Tree Bridge. It opened in 1963 and spans the Lane Cove River. After that bridge, they continued on and crossed the second of the bridges Tarban Creek Bridge. This spans Tarban Creek, likewise, it has nice views east to the Harbour Bridge. Then they got to bridge #2 of the main 3 Bridges, the Gladesville Bridge. It has wonderful views along Parramatta River towards the Harbour Bridge and the city.

Gladesville Bridge is a heritage-listed concrete arch road bridge that carries Victoria Road over the Parramatta River, from the western suburbs to the city (or vice versa). It was the first 305-metre (1,000 ft) span concrete bridge in the world and had a substantial number of engineering and technical elements that made it a world-leading bridge design and construction achievement. It was also the first bridge, if not one of the first bridges, to utilise computer programming in its construction.

This bridge is on the main arterial thoroughfare of Victoria Road – from the western suburbs to the city (or vice versa). They headed east and back towards the city.

Bay Run

Then, they did a detour off the main arterial road through the inner west suburbs of Rozelle, Lilyfield, Haberfield, Five Dock and Drummoyne. They followed part of the Bay Run. It is a 7km long (4.3 mi) shared use path for cyclists and pedestrians that encircles much of Iron Cove. It never deviates more than 20m from the water so the views are pretty nice.

ANZAC Bridge

Riding over our favourite bridge, the ANZAC Bridge, is an experience. We think it is incredible, a work of art and design. It is main bridge #3. Similarly, it is also great to see without a roof over your head inhibiting the view.

Most noteworthy, the stay cable design concept development and final design for the new bridge were carried out by the Roads & Traffic Authority of NSW. Finally, the bridge was opened to traffic on 03 December 1995 as the Glebe Island Bridge.

The bridge was given its current name on Remembrance Day in 1998 to honour the memory of the soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (known as ANZACs) who served in World War I.

However, the 1 hour was up so our Harley riders dropped the passengers back at Circular Quay where their daughter was waiting. In conclusion, the surprise Harley Davidson birthday tour was a great experience, a big success – and so much fun! They saw so much that the average traveller to Sydney – and most Sydneyites – don’t and had so much fun at the same time. Mum said it was one of the best birthday presents EVER!

Feel the Freedom! Check the tour out here! It’s our second most popular tour, the Eastern Panorama is our #1. Don’t forget, every tour is unique so the route may detour slightly, depending on traffic or if you’d like to see something else on the way.

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mini holiday trike tour – Kelly + Kevin 19.10.24

The Sydney mini holiday trike tour was a treat for our passengers. From western NSW, they visited friends in western Sydney. For something different, they decided to come into town and have a look around. Instead of just the usual bus or walking, they came on one of our trikes. Needless to say the loved it, “Highly recommended and we will be doing it again”.

Our trike rider picked them up from Circular Quay. We emailed a map and gave instructions of where to meet.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Firstly, they rode over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Carlos really wanted to go over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. We always tell our passengers to look up and enjoy the unique view. he more than 6,000,000 rivets are so interesting and the arch is so iconic. It’s nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’ because of its arch-based design. It is the largest steel arch bridge in the world. This bridge is the eighth longest spanning-arch bridge in the world and the tallest steel arch bridge, measuring 134 m (440 ft) from top to water level. It was also the world’s widest long-span bridge, at 48.8 m (160 ft) wide, until a bridge in Canada was completed in 2012.

Jacaranda trees

Not far from the northern end of the Bridge, is McDougall Street, Kirribilli. One of the most beautiful streets in Sydney with canopies of jacaranda trees. For six or so weeks (usually from mid-October before a peak in mid-November) the streets become filled with beautiful purple flowers gently falling on the footpaths like purple rain… it’s just stunning (ellaslist).

The funny thing about tourists of a certain nationality, is they jump out into the middle of the road. Not to take photos of the jacarandas but of the trike 😂 :-).

Kirribilli

Next, they rode past Kirribilli House. Kirribilli House is the secondary official residence of the Prime Minister of Australia. Further on is Admiralty House. It is the Sydney residence of the Governor-General and one of the most historic and important residences on Sydney Harbour. The house – originally called ‘Wotonga’ – was built in the mid 1800’s.

There are so many paparazzi, cameras, reporters and people here at the moment. King Charles and Queen Camilla were staying at Admiralty House.

After that, they rode around the corner to Jeffrey Street Wharf. From here, the views across Sydney Harbour towards the Sydney Opera House and the CBD are magnificent. In addition, it also has an up-close view of the side and underneath of the bridge. A perfect place to stop for photos.

The Kirribilli Loop

The loop is a fab thing to do, so they rode under the north side of the bridge and continued on their tour. The underside of the northern end of the SHB – Sydney Harbour Bridge – is very interesting. The Kirribilli Loop was finished by riding past Luna Park and the North Sydney Olympic Pool. Already, the Sydney leg trike tour was showing our passengers some interesting and beautiful sights.

Blues Point Reserve

Continuing on, they rode on through Milsons Point, did a left hand turn and rode up a few streets. This lead to Blues Point Reserve. The views over Blues Bay towards the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the CBD are just stunning. All the more stunning because of the lovely weather. Another perfect place for photos, it’s where this photo was taken.

Woolloomooloo, Harry’s and Garden Island

Back over the bridge and through the city. Woolloomooloo is known for Finger Wharf, an old cargo dock that attracts a trendy clientele with fine dining, hip bars and water views on all sides. It also has the famous Harry Cafe De Wheels which has been serving customers for over 80 years. They make delicious pies, hotdogs and more. Lots of interesting photos are on the walls, mostly of famous celebrities who have visited over the years. They rode past Garden Island which is the location of a major Royal Australian Navy base. Then it was up the hill and into Potts Point.

Kings Cross

Continuing on, they rode through the infamous Kings Cross, though it has calmed down a lot since it’s heyday – home of the famous and huge Coca Cola sign. Kings Cross is also home to nightclubs and ladies of the night though it is not nearly as raunchy as it was in the 1970s (apparently). Already, the Sydney mini holiday trike tour has shown our passengers so many spectacular views and some unique places.

St Mary’s Cathedral

Next, they rode west past St Mary’s Cathedral which is very impressive, even when riding past. It’s a Gothic Revival architectural building which opened in 1928. It took from 1866 to 1928 to build and has a height of 75m.

Parliament of New South Wales

Along Macquarie Street, we rode past some beautiful heritage buildings, including the Parliament of New South Wales. It was the first of the Australian colonial legislatures, with its formation in the 1850s. At the time, New South Wales was a British colony under the control of the Governor. A small, appointed Legislative Council began meeting in 1824 to advise the Governor on legislative matters.

Macquarie Street

Further on, they rode along Macquarie Street which is the location of the main governmental institutions of NSW: Parliament House, Government House, and the Law Courts Building (which houses the Supreme Court of New South Wales). There is so much history behind Macquarie St. and the buildings that front it.

In the years since its founding in 1788, Sydney had developed organically, and by the early 1800s was lacking in major public buildings, and had a complex network of narrow streets. The supply of drinking water and waste management was also becoming an issue. Governor Macquarie initiated the construction of Sydney’s first public buildings of any real permanence and set the boundaries of Sydney’s grid of streets, laying out the street in 1810.

Barangaroo

Finally, they rode through the city and down the road that leads through the comparatively new development of Barangaroo. A spectacular transformation from a disused container terminal on the edge of Sydney’s CBD into a spectacular 22-hectare waterfront precinct.

However, the hour was almost up so the passengers were dropped off at Wynyard (train) Station so they could catch the train back to Western Sydney. In conclusion, the Sydney mini holiday trike tour was a huge success – fun, unique and memorable!

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Sydney leg trike tour – Ernst + Jeanette 19.10.24

The Sydney leg trike tour was part of a round the world holiday. Our passengers are Germans who live in Switzerland and have been travelling the world for the last 4 years. We were happy to make their experience in Sydney a fun one!

Our trike rider picked them up from their hotel in the Rocks.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Firstly, they rode over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Carlos really wanted to go over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. We always tell our passengers to look up and enjoy the unique view. he more than 6,000,000 rivets are so interesting and the arch is so iconic. It’s nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’ because of its arch-based design. It is the largest steel arch bridge in the world. This bridge is the eighth longest spanning-arch bridge in the world and the tallest steel arch bridge, measuring 134 m (440 ft) from top to water level. It was also the world’s widest long-span bridge, at 48.8 m (160 ft) wide, until a bridge in Canada was completed in 2012.

Jacaranda trees

Not far from the northern end of the Bridge, is McDougall Street, Kirribilli. One of the most beautiful streets in Sydney with canopies of jacaranda trees. For six or so weeks (usually from mid-October before a peak in mid-November) the streets become filled with beautiful purple flowers gently falling on the footpaths like purple rain… it’s just stunning (ellaslist).

The funny thing about tourists of a certain nationality, is they jump out into the middle of the road. Not to take photos of the jacarandas but of the trike 😂 :-).

Kirribilli

Next, they rode past Kirribilli House. Kirribilli House is the secondary official residence of the Prime Minister of Australia. Further on is Admiralty House. It is the Sydney residence of the Governor-General and one of the most historic and important residences on Sydney Harbour. The house – originally called ‘Wotonga’ – was built in the mid 1800’s.

After that, they rode around the corner to Jeffrey Street Wharf. From here, the views across Sydney Harbour towards the Sydney Opera House and the CBD are magnificent. In addition, it also has an up-close view of the side and underneath of the bridge. A perfect place to stop for photos, it’s where this photo was taken.

The Kirribilli Loop

The loop is a fab thing to do, so they rode under the north side of the bridge and continued on their tour. The underside of the northern end of the SHB – Sydney Harbour Bridge – is very interesting. The Kirribilli Loop was finished by riding past Luna Park and the North Sydney Olympic Pool. Already, the Sydney leg trike tour was showing our passengers some interesting and beautiful sights.

Woolloomooloo, Harry’s and Garden Island

Back over the bridge and through the city. Woolloomooloo is known for Finger Wharf, an old cargo dock that attracts a trendy clientele with fine dining, hip bars and water views on all sides. It also has the famous Harry Cafe De Wheels which has been serving customers for over 80 years. They make delicious pies, hotdogs and more. Lots of interesting photos are on the walls, mostly of famous celebrities who have visited over the years. They rode past Garden Island which is the location of a major Royal Australian Navy base. Then it was up the hill and into Potts Point.

Kings Cross

Continuing on, they rode through the infamous Kings Cross, though it has calmed down a lot since it’s heyday – home of the famous and huge Coca Cola sign. Kings Cross is also home to nightclubs and ladies of the night though it is not nearly as raunchy as it was in the 1970s (apparently).

Eastern suburbs

Heading east was next, through the posh suburbs of the eastern suburbs of Sydney, including the Bays: Rose Bay, Double Bay and Rushcutters Bay.

Centennial Park

Lastly, heading south, they rode through the suburbs to the fabulous Centennial Park. It is a lovely experience, to ride through it.

With 120 fields and venues, 35+ different sports are played in the Centennial Parklands. It is the largest community sports precinct in Australia! The history is also interesting: “Originally a swamp and then set aside as land for the water source for Sydney. Centennial Park was reconstructed as a public park and opened in 1888. Sir Henry Parkes’ vision was to create a ‘People’s Park’ in which the citizens of Sydney could ‘take in the air’ away from the Sydney town centre.”

However, the 1.5 hrs was up so our trike rider rode further south and dropped them at Mascot. Here they were going to do a helicopter ride and see Sydney from a different angle. In conclusion, the Sydney leg trike tour was the perfect experience – fun, memorable and a great way to explore Sydney quickly.

Here is a description of the Eastern Sydney Panorama. But remember, each tour is unique so may not be exactly as written. You will get to see the major icons though.

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