It is not hard to see why. Nestled at the foot of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and on the western shores of Sydney Cove, The Rocks is the foundation place of Sydney and Australia, and of enormous historical signifiance. The Rocks is the oldest area of Sydney and has recently undergone an amazing metamorphosis, the old district being transformed into a vibrant pocket of cafes and restaurants and interesting tourist shops and stalls. This has been achieved without destroying the area's Old World charm and historic buildings. Sydney's town planners have put in place a sensitive conservation program that has preserved the heritage and character of The Rocks and brought about an interesting fusion of modern amenities in an old and valued setting.
Most activities centre around walking, looking and eating.
The Rocks is Sydney's oldest preserved colonial district so the main emphasis is on the historical importance of the area. The Rocks Visitors Centre, at 106 George Street, is a logical and excellent starting point. This centre has a wealth of information on points of interest around The Rocks and provides free information and literature, as well as having souvenirs and momentos that can be purchased. The Sydney Cove Authority and Rocks Visitor's Center publishes a wonderful booklet called The Rocks Self-Guided Tour, which pinpoints 31 places of historical interest as part of a local heritage walk. Along the way, walkers encounter a maze of narrow streets, laneways and interconnected sandstone cottages and terraces filled with shops, stalls, cafes and restaurants.