If you feel like moving around to the scenic outdoors or head for some sports and recreation area, then you could literally do with some cross-over. And we do mean literally crossing a bridge. The Spit Bridge (don’t ask how it got the name) is a continuous stretch of the Spit Road and spans the Middle Harbour to connect the North Shore of Sydney with the even further based Manly Walk (don’t ask about the history of this naming either).
The original Spit Bridge was constructed way back in 1924, and was as per the requirement in that era, mostly of heavy wood. But as the city and its traffic grew, the old bridge had to give way to a new version that could carry the ever-increasing traffic load of the city and its suburbs. The current Spit Bridge is a totally concrete and steel construction completed in 1958, with a two-lane track on either side and even has the facility to literally split down the middle and lift open. The split feature is essentially to facilitate the passage for the inland water boat traffic that is constantly plying from one harbour to harbour.
This said and done, it is imperative we inform you that the Spit Bridge and the Spit Road are one of the heavy-traffic stretches and during peak hours, or when the bridge is lifted, the going can sometimes get pretty slow. The plus feature, however, is that the drive does take one through some very lovely and affluent neighbourhoods that are interspersed with absolutely amazing scenic sights.
The fastest way to get to Manly Walk across the Spit Bridge is definitely a car. No hassles for parking as there is provision of ample space. Alternately one can take a bus from the Sydney CBD. And if you have the time as well as the inclination, we would recommend a one way manly walk preferably while headed towards Manly Walk. It may be noted that the northern suburbs and the beaches there are mostly outdoor locales with practically little or no covering. Therefore it is essential to be comfortably attired depending on the time and the season of the visit. Needless to say, cap and shades, and especially a camera, are a must in the attire on any excursion in and around Sydney.
The Manly Walk is open 24 hours on all days of the week, and a half-day (4 hrs) visit is the ideal recommended time. This could include the commute time by conveyance on four wheels or on two legs. There is absolutely no fee levied for usage of either the Spit Bridge or the facilities at Manly Walk. Since the trip is as an outdoor excursion, it would be ideally suitable for the entire family, right from infants to senior citizens. The trip can be equally amazing for a group of friends, and even couples or solo travelers.
For further details or information, one can contact
Manly Visitors Information Bureau – +61 2 9977 1088
