Top Valentine’s Day ideas for nature lovers

By NSW National Parks and Wildlife February 9, 2018
Reading Time: 3 Minutes Print this page
We’ve got you covered for Valentine’s Day.

THIS VALENTINE’S DAY, forget the candlelight dinner, take advantage of the warm summer days and long summer nights and spend time with your loved one outdoors and in nature. Here are our top ideas:

1. Plan a picnic

Bradleys Head Amphitheatre is a stunning picnic and lookout area in Sydney Harbour National Park. It offers breathtaking views of the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Fort Denison. Roll out a rug on its large grassy area, enjoy a champagne picnic and take in one of the most glorious views in the city.

2. Go on a secluded swim

If you’re looking for a mid-week adventure with your loved one why not try a secluded swimming spot like Resolute Beach? Hidden in the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park in Sydney’s north, the stunning Resolute Beach backs onto the Pittwater basin. Follow the picturesque Resolute Loop Trail to get to the beach where you can take a dip and enjoy a picnic on the sand.

See more: Best beach campsites in Australia

3. Wake up early and watch the sunrise  

Grab your loved one (and a large coffee) and head to South Head in Sydney Harbour National Park at daybreak. Watch the sunrise over the city on the South Head Heritage Trail which offers views of Sydney Harbour to the west, Middle Head and North Head to the north, and the expansive Pacific Ocean to the east.

4. Cuddle up in a tent

There’s nothing that will take your relationship to new levels than sharing a tent together with your loved one…. not to mention assembling it! Rustle up your camping gear and head to The Basin Campground for a night of star-gazing. Located in Kur-ing-gai Chase National Park, it’s close to Sydney (only about an hours’ drive so easily do-able on a weeknight) and offers sublime views of surround Pittwater.

5. Go cycling

They say that couples that exercise together stay together so why not try a romantic ride around one of the most stunning areas of Sydney? The La Perouse Loop, which finds its turning point at La Perouse and Kamay Botany Bay National Park enjoys views of Botany Bay and beautiful coastline. If you head out in the morning, stop at the boatshed for a coffee on your way around.

See more: Top 10 cycling tracks in Australia

6. Have a Family-friendly V-Day at Lane Cove

Lane Cove National Park, not far from Sydney’s city centre, is the perfect place for a family Valentine’s Day out. There are lots of picnic areas to choose from, including those that offer picnic tables, barbecues, children’s play equipment, flat grassy areas and easy access to walking tracks and places to ride your bike. You can also stay overnight in the park at the Lane Cove River Tourist Park if you want to make a weekend of it.

7. Pop the question in a scenic area

Thinking of that special spot to get down on one knee? There’s no better place in Sydney than on Clark Island. Located off the tip of Darling Point in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Clark Island spans less than a hectare in size and offers spectacular views of Sydney Harbour, the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. With grassy lawns and breathtaking views, it’s a private and unique picnic spot like no other. Transport to the island is via water taxi (pick up and drop off only) and all vessels need to pay a $7 per person landing fee by calling 13000 PARKS (13000 72757) – but it will all be worth it, when you step onto this island paradise.

You can find more ideal places to pop the question here.

READ MORE: