Akuna Bay, West Head, Northern Beaches and Manly

This ride starts from Sydney Harbour Bridge and follows the Pacific Hwy to Gordon. To avoid the traffic on this road it is recommend to start early in the day.  Once at Gordon turn right into Mona Vale Road. This road is a lot better than the Pacific Hwy.  Along some parts it also has a really good shoulder.

About 12kms later you need to turn left at Terry Hills.  There are signs for Akuna Bay.  Follow these signs.  The road descends quickly.  Once in the national park there is hardly any motor traffic.  So peaceful.  You continue your descent until you get to Akuna Bay. A very tranquil spot.  There are toilets and picnic areas around here.  

The road continue around the bay and then begins to climb again.  For some great views across the Pittwater and to the Central Coast take the turn off for West Head.  This road has a series of rolling hills.  The road is nice and smooth.  Once at West Head stop to enjoy the views.

After you have enjoyed the views, head back to the junction and turn left and follow the signs down to Church Point.  The road meanders around the Pittwater, where you are greeted with more amazing views across the Pittwater.  The road then continues to Mona Vale,where you need to turn right on to Barrenjoey Road and then take the first left then first right.  You are now following the back roads through some of the Northern Beaches of Sydney.  

About 5kms later the road rejoins Pittwater Road.  This road is busy, but there is a nice bus lane for most of it's length.  At Dee Why turn left into Dee Why Pde.  This will bring you back to the coast away from most of the traffic.  There are a number of cafes at Dee Why Beach.  You will see bicycle signs for Manly.  Follow these signs.  

At Manly it is worth climbing the hill up to North Head. From here you will be rewarded with great views across Sydney Harbour.  To finish a great ride treat yourself to a ride on the Manly ferry and you are then back in Sydney.

---