The Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney sits right in front of the Sydney Opera House. Well, most part of it’s 30 hectares of land is actually to the east. It is proximate to the Domain with the Circular Quay and Macquarie Street on one side, the Cahill Express and the Art Gallery Road on the other. It is open to the public whole year round.

If you are coming from the Sydney Opera House, upon your entry you will see The Satyr (aka the Faun). It is a Frank Lynch sculpture cast in bronze . It is life-size and quite mesmerizing that you want to touch it. For a while, you might even think you’ve just met Mr. Tumnus from  The Chronicles of Narnia in person.

From here on, you decide if you want to hike up to Bennelong Lawn or take the trackless train to tour the gardens. I highly recommend you go take the stairway behind The Satyr that leads to the lawn.  If going up the steps make  you catch your breath, wait till you see the panoramic view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House up there. It's the best spot for a postcard souvenir photo. No wonder it is also one of the most sought after location for a garden wedding reception in Sydney. Below is a panoramic shot I took one noon.

A short walk will lead you to The Government House. It's design by the English architect Edward Blore has been described as a Gothic revival . This mock castle in sandstone brings you to the 19th and 20th century.

If you come on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, you can actually go in to inspect the big collection of furnitures and decors of the said era at no cost. (Too bad I didn't come in any of those days)  However, access is denied on the second floor where  the private quarters are. Among the list of occupants to date include the Queen, the Royal family, the Governor General and other visiting heads of State. While the architecture is remarkable, the surrounding gardens are just as splendid. The patio and manicured lawns are enhanced by different colourful blooms. 

Just outside the gates of the Government House is the Conservatorium of Music. It is a part of the University of Sydney established to create a music education facility of outstanding acoustic and architectural quality. It houses some teaching and practice studios and five halls/ performance venues for hire. There are also guided tours from Monday to Friday. Cost: $10. The cafe is also a nice spot for a morning or afternoon tea with the castle structure as a backdrop. (photo to follow)

Further on is the Rose Garden. First week of September is not the best time to go as the roses haven't bloomed yet. So, let me hold you for a while until they do. 

I've spent a good four hours and I have covered only one third of the whole Royal Botanic Gardens.  I'm either a slow walker or I just love to stop and smell the flowers. You should, too. Smell the flowers, I  mean. See you soon for Part 2.