Pittwater YHA

If you’re looking for a real Australian bush experience within the city limits of Sydney, then head here. Overlooking pretty Morning Bay, this recently refurbished stone-and-wood hillside lodge is hidden in the trees in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. You can’t get here by car, but it’s worth the arduous journey – an hour’s bus to Church Point, a ferry to Halls Wharf, then a steep, 15-minute climb through the bush – because the wildlife all around is breathtaking. Red and green rosellas, laughing kookaburras, wallabies, possums and goannas are just a few of the native Aussie animals you’re likely to spot here. Guests can hire canoes and kayaks or swim in the bay, and there are women-only massage workshops once or twice a year. It’s BYO food (there are no shops) and bedlinen, or you can hire the latter subject to water availability; no sleeping bags are allowed. It’s incredibly popular, so advance bookings are essential. There are also kitchen and laundry facilities and, of course, a barbie. No smoking. Reception open 8-11am, 5-8pm daily. Ferry/water taxi Halls Wharf then 15min walk. Rates $25-$28 dorm; $65-$72 double. Rooms 8. Credit MC, V.