Expertly curated with local insights and guest experiences — Updated 2026

Romantic Escapes in Sydney for Adventure Seekers

Discover Sydney's thrilling yet intimate retreats tailored for adventurous couples.

Romantic sunset view over the iconic Sydney Opera House
At a Glance
Country Australia
City Sydney
Day / Night 17° /
Local Time 15:50
July — Now Moderate crowds
Best Months Sep · Oct

Explore this curated guide to Sydney's most romantic and adventurous stays perfect for couples. From candlelit dinners by the harbor to exhilarating rooftop views, find an unforgettable base for your Sydney adventure.

Top Sydney Stays for Adventure Seekers

Best overall
9.3
Park Hyatt Sydney

Park Hyatt Sydney

Nestled beside Sydney Harbour, Park Hyatt Sydney offers breathtaking views and an intimate atmosphere perfect for couples. Enjoy plush furnishings and exquisite dining.

Best for couples
8.9
Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection

Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection

Enjoy romantic waterfront views and vibrant history at Pier One. This upscale hotel features unique architecture and intimate settings, a perfect couple’s retreat.

Top pick
9.8
Bondi 38 Serviced Apartments

Bondi 38 Serviced Apartments

Overlooking the golden sands of Bondi, these serviced apartments are perfect for a couple's getaway. Enjoy a private balcony with sweeping coastal views that inspire adventure.

Not sure which stay fits you best?

Find the perfect romantic escape in Sydney.

Best choice: The Rocks

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Historic walks atmosphere.

Best choice: Bondi Beach

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Coastal walks atmosphere.

Best choice: Manly

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Beach sunsets atmosphere.

Best choice: Surry Hills

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Boutique shops atmosphere.

Top Sydney Stays for Adventure Seekers

Discover the perfect blend of romance and adventure with these outstanding Sydney hotels.

Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection
Best for couples
8.9 Excellent
1572 reviews

Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection

The Rocks • Boutique Charm

Enjoy romantic waterfront views and vibrant history at Pier One. This upscale hotel features unique architecture and intimate settings, a perfect couple’s retreat.

  • Harbour location
  • Sunday brunch
  • Boutique style
Bondi 38 Serviced Apartments
Top pick
9.8 Exceptional
545 reviews

Bondi 38 Serviced Apartments

Bondi Beach • Ocean Views

Overlooking the golden sands of Bondi, these serviced apartments are perfect for a couple's getaway. Enjoy a private balcony with sweeping coastal views that inspire adventure.

  • Oceanfront views
  • Self-contained living
  • Modern design
Bondi Beach House
Smart choice
9.1 Outstanding
244 reviews

Bondi Beach House

Bondi Beach • Cozy Retreat

A charming hideaway just steps from Bondi Beach, this boutique hotel offers a warm ambiance and personalized service. Ideal for romantic escapes filled with sun and sand.

  • Close to beach
  • Boutique charm
  • Personal touches
Manly Pacific Sydney MGallery Collection
Central location
8.4 Very Good
1530 reviews

Manly Pacific Sydney MGallery Collection

Manly • Surfside Relaxation

Experience the laidback lifestyle at this beachfront paradise. With expansive ocean views, couples can unwind and indulge in sunset strolls along Manly Beach.

  • Beachfront location
  • Relaxed atmosphere
  • Close to surf
Peppers Manly Beach
Hidden gem
9 Outstanding
314 reviews

Peppers Manly Beach

Manly • Contemporary Escape

A pristine retreat offering breathtaking sea views and modern luxury. Peppers Manly Beach provides an intimate setting for couples to explore vibrant waterside attractions.

  • Close to attractions
  • Sea view rooms
  • Intimate vibes
Paramount House Hotel
Boutique stay
9.2 Outstanding
156 reviews

Paramount House Hotel

Surry Hills • Stylish Getaway

Located in the heart of Surry Hills, this stylish hotel offers a blend of industrial charm and vintage details. Enjoy exploring local eateries and boutique shops with your partner.

  • Trendy area
  • Boutique design
  • Local eateries
Crystalbrook Albion
Walkable area
9 Outstanding
384 reviews

Crystalbrook Albion

Surry Hills • Eco-Conscious Charm

This eco-luxe hotel offers a tranquil escape in vibrant Surry Hills. Couples will appreciate its blend of luxury and sustainability, alongside local culinary experiences.

  • Eco-friendly design
  • Central to cafes
  • Intimate setting

How We Choose Sydney Hotels

Our selections are based on guest reviews, intimate atmospheres, and ideal locations for romantic escapes.

Best Areas in Sydney for Adventure Seekers

Explore romantic and adventurous places in Sydney ideal for couples seeking thrilling experiences blended with intimate settings.

The Rocks

At the heart of Sydney, The Rocks offers adventure and intimacy for couples. Its historic cobblestone streets are the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll, while the surrounding waters provide opportunities for thrilling activities like kayaking and the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge climb. With a mix of upscale dining establishments, including romantic candlelit dinners overlooking the harbor, couples can indulge in a memorable culinary experience.

In The Rocks, boutique shopping awaits, offering everything from handcrafted goods to unique art pieces. Couples can explore galleries and small local shops, adding a touch of culture to their adventure. As evening falls, enjoy a glass of wine at a cozy bar with a view of the twinkling city skyline. The combination of adventure and romance makes The Rocks a compelling choice for a couple's getaway.

Best for Historic walks
Walking route 6 stops · Solid walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 52/100 · Moderate
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 9.1 · 1.9k reviews
The Rocks: Birthplace of Sydney In 1788, The Rocks became the site of the first European settlement.
Why 'The Rocks'? Named for its rugged sandstone terrain; homes were built from local stone.
Hidden Susannah Place Museum A row of terrace houses from 1844 offer a peek into early working-class life.
The Rocks

Self-guided walking tour The Rocks — Adventure Seekers (Sydney, Australia)

~5.2 km · ~1 h 14 min · 6 stops
≈6,800 steps ≈259 kcal 3 h 24 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Darling Harbour
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(64.5k)
🎡 Attraction
Major waterfront destination with shops and promenades
⏱ ~25 min ·
1
Sydney Observatory
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(4.1k)
📍 Landmark
Hilltop observatory with sweeping city and harbour views
⏱ ~25 min
2
First Fleet Park
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(762)
🌳 Park
Harbourfront green space near Circular Quay
⏱ ~15 min ·
3
BridgeClimb Sydney
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(6.4k)
🎡 Attraction
Iconic bridge climbing base and harbour landmark
⏱ ~20 min
4
Campbells Cove
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(230)
🎡 Attraction
Historic cove with harbour views and sandstone wharf
⏱ ~15 min · 🕐 Mo-Fr 12:00-24:00; Sa-Su 11:00-24:00; PH 12:00-24:00
5
Sydney Harbour Bridge
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(20.9k)
🌉 Bridge
Sydney’s famous harbour bridge and classic skyline icon
🏛 1000 · ⏱ ~30 min ·
6

Bondi Beach

Famous globally, Bondi Beach is a blend of breathtaking scenery and adventure. Couples can start their day with a surf lesson, adding a splash of excitement to their trip. For those who prefer to stay off the waves, the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk offers stunning views and quiet moments along the rugged coastline. As a legendary beach spot, Bondi is more than just sand and sea; it's full of vibrant culture and energy.

After a day of sun and surf, couples can unwind at one of Bondi’s intimate restaurants, with options ranging from beachside cafes to elegant bistros offering fine dining experiences. Boutique shops dot the streets, perfect for exploring handpicked souvenirs. To top off a day of adventure, there's nothing quite like watching the sunset together at Bondi's Icebergs terrace, where the sky paints a romantic canvas of colors, perfect for a cozy couple moment.

Best for Coastal walks
Walking route 8 stops · Packed itinerary
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 52/100 · Moderate
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 9.5 · 789 reviews
Bondi Lifesaving World Record In 2007, it hosted the largest lifesaving lesson with 800 participants.
Meaning of 'Bondi' Derived from an Aboriginal word meaning 'water breaking over rocks.'
Bondi's Secret Sea Pool Visit Icebergs Pool for iconic ocean views, open year-round.
Bondi Beach

Self-guided walking tour Bondi Beach — Adventure Seekers (Sydney, Australia)

~1.1 km · ~15 min · 8 stops
≈1,400 steps ≈54 kcal 4 h 20 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Bondi Pavilion
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(4.7k)
📍 Landmark
Explore cultural events at the Bondi Pavilion
⏱ ~30 min
1
Bondi Beach Graffiti Wall
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(73)
🖼️ Gallery
Discover street art at Bondi Beach Graffiti Wall
⏱ ~20 min ·
2
Bondi Beach Park
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(9.3k)
🏖️ Beach
Relax and enjoy the sun at iconic Bondi Beach
⏱ ~60 min ·
3
Bondi Beach View Point Bondi Beach
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(39)
🎡 Attraction
Take in the sweeping vistas at Bondi Beach View Point
⏱ ~20 min
4
Monument to Black Sunday
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(29)
🗿 Monument
Reflect at the Monument to Black Sunday
⏱ ~15 min
5
Bondi Icebergs POOL Bondi Icebergs
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(1k)
📍 Landmark
Experience the historic Bondi Icebergs Pool
⏱ ~30 min ·
6
Sculpture by the sea - Bondi to Tamarama walk
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(90)
🎡 Attraction
Admire art on the Sculpture by the Sea walk
⏱ ~25 min
7
Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(6.6k)
🎡 Attraction
Scenic walk with coastal views from Bondi to Bronte
⏱ ~45 min ·
8

Manly

Away from the main tourist hubs, Manly offers a mix of adventure and tranquility. Known for water sports, it's a paradise for couples keen on snorkeling, surfing, or kayaking. The scenic ferry ride from Sydney provides a preview of adventures to come, setting the tone for an extraordinary escape. For nature enthusiasts, the serene walks at North Head provide panoramic views of Sydney's skyline and harbor.

After an adventurous day exploring Manly's natural beauty, couples can indulge in an evening filled with romance at local seaside restaurants, known for fresh seafood and breathtaking sunset views. The village-like atmosphere offers boutique stores and cafes, fostering a sense of community and charm. From shoreline activities to cultural diversions, Manly effortlessly combines excitement and romance, perfect for couples seeking both adventure and closeness.

Best for Beach sunsets
Walking route 4 stops · Short walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 52/100 · Moderate
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 8.7 · 1.8k reviews
Captain Arthur Phillip's Manly Encounter Named by Phillip in 1788 after ‘manly’ Aboriginal people he met.
Australia's First World Surfing Contest Held in Manly in 1964, marking the start of competitive surfing.
Manly's Quiet Shelly Beach A tranquil bay ideal for snorkeling away from the main beach crowds.
Manly

Self-guided walking tour Manly — Adventure Seekers (Sydney, Australia)

~5.8 km · ~1 h 21 min · 4 stops
≈7,600 steps ≈288 kcal 3 h 56 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Manly Wormhole
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(720)
🗿 Monument
Explore the quirky Manly Wormhole
⏱ ~30 min
1
Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(1.3k)
🎡 Attraction
Dive into marine life at Cabbage Tree Bay
🏛 2002 · ⏱ ~60 min
2
Shelly Headland Upper Lookout
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(233)
🎡 Attraction
Enjoy views from Shelly Headland Upper Lookout
⏱ ~25 min
3
Collins Flat Beach
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(71)
🏖️ Beach
Relax at the secluded Collins Flat Beach
⏱ ~40 min · 🕐 sunrise-sunset
4

Surry Hills

Urban yet intimate, Surry Hills is a trendy district full of character. Known for its bohemian vibe, it's an attractive spot for couples looking to combine cityscape excitement with cozy retreats. Streets lined with terraced houses give way to vibrant cafes and boutique shops offering diverse fashion and art. For those wanting to explore, there's an array of galleries and performing arts venues, perfect for indulging in Sydney's cultural scene.

In the evening, Surry Hills transforms into a hub of romance with an eclectic mix of wine bars and intimate dining spots. Couples can discover new favorites, from hidden gems to highly acclaimed eateries offering intimate candlelit experiences. Its blend of urban sophistication and intimate charm makes Surry Hills not just a place to visit but a vibrant community to fall in love with.

Best for Boutique shops
Walking route 5 stops · Solid walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 52/100 · Moderate
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 9.1 · 540 reviews
Surry Hills' Booming Textile Trade Once the center of Sydney's textile industry in the 19th century.
Australia’s First Street Market Started in Surry Hills in the early 1900s, setting a trade tradition.
Crown Street's Art Deco Cinema The iconic Golden Age Cinema offers a classic film experience.
Surry Hills

Self-guided walking tour Surry Hills — Adventure Seekers (Sydney, Australia)

~3.4 km · ~47 min · 5 stops
≈4,500 steps ≈172 kcal 3 h 37 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(25.3k)
🌷 Garden
Botanic gardens with harbourside paths and views
🏛 1816 · ⏱ ~30 min
1
St Mary's Cathedral
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(9k)
Church
A majestic Gothic-style cathedral
🏛 1838 · 👤 William Wardell · ⏱ ~40 min
2
Hyde Park
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(18.1k)
🌳 Park
A central park with fountains and wide walking paths
🏛 1810 · ⏱ ~30 min
3
Madame Tussauds Sydney
4.4★★★★★★★★★★(5.7k)
🎡 Attraction
Wax museum featuring lifelike celebrity figures
⏱ ~45 min ·
4
Darling Harbour
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(64.5k)
🎡 Attraction
Major waterfront destination with shops and promenades
⏱ ~25 min ·
5

Best time to visit Sydney (Australia)

Now (July) avg: 12°C, mostly dry, moderate crowds. Best months to walk: Sep & Oct.

Live Temp
~Day / Night Temp 17°C / 8°C
Sunrise / Sunset 6:59 / 17:03
Local time 15:50
Sea Temp 18°C
Best Months Sep & Oct
J Jan F Feb M Mar A Apr M May J Jun J Jul this month A Aug S Sep best month O Oct best month N Nov D Dec
Check Sydney hotels
Temperature Average night-low temperature, month by month. Zero line marks freezing point.
Crowds How busy it gets — traveller interest by month.
Sea temperature Sea warmth for swimming, by month.
Rainfall Rainy days to expect each month.
Sunshine Hours of sun per day, by month.
Sydney guides →

Top Sydney Stays for Adventure Seekers

Discover the perfect blend of romance and adventure with these outstanding Sydney hotels.
Park Hyatt Sydney
Best overall
9.3 Outstanding
371 reviews

Park Hyatt Sydney

Nestled beside Sydney Harbour, Park Hyatt Sydney offers breathtaking views and an intimate atmosphere perfect for couples. Enjoy plush furnishings and exquisite dining.

Ideal for: Couples seeking romantic city views
Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection
Best for couples
8.9 Excellent
1572 reviews

Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection

Enjoy romantic waterfront views and vibrant history at Pier One. This upscale hotel features unique architecture and intimate settings, a perfect couple’s retreat.

Ideal for: Couples craving waterside romance
Bondi 38 Serviced Apartments
Top pick
9.8 Exceptional
545 reviews

Bondi 38 Serviced Apartments

Overlooking the golden sands of Bondi, these serviced apartments are perfect for a couple's getaway. Enjoy a private balcony with sweeping coastal views that inspire adventure.

Ideal for: Couples wanting seaside serenity
Bondi Beach House
Smart choice
9.1 Outstanding
244 reviews

Bondi Beach House

A charming hideaway just steps from Bondi Beach, this boutique hotel offers a warm ambiance and personalized service. Ideal for romantic escapes filled with sun and sand.

Ideal for: Couples escaping to the beach
Manly Pacific Sydney MGallery Collection
Central location
8.4 Very Good
1530 reviews

Manly Pacific Sydney MGallery Collection

Experience the laidback lifestyle at this beachfront paradise. With expansive ocean views, couples can unwind and indulge in sunset strolls along Manly Beach.

Ideal for: Couples loving beach vibes
Peppers Manly Beach
Hidden gem
9 Outstanding
314 reviews

Peppers Manly Beach

A pristine retreat offering breathtaking sea views and modern luxury. Peppers Manly Beach provides an intimate setting for couples to explore vibrant waterside attractions.

Ideal for: Couples exploring Manly
Paramount House Hotel
Boutique stay
9.2 Outstanding
156 reviews

Paramount House Hotel

Located in the heart of Surry Hills, this stylish hotel offers a blend of industrial charm and vintage details. Enjoy exploring local eateries and boutique shops with your partner.

Ideal for: Couples loving urban chic
Crystalbrook Albion
Walkable area
9 Outstanding
384 reviews

Crystalbrook Albion

This eco-luxe hotel offers a tranquil escape in vibrant Surry Hills. Couples will appreciate its blend of luxury and sustainability, alongside local culinary experiences.

Ideal for: Eco-conscious couples

Secure Your Romantic Stay Now

Popular hotels fill up quickly. Book early to ensure your romantic escape in Sydney.

Compare Sydney Hotels for Adventure Seekers

Easily browse and compare romantic hotel options.
Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection
Best for couples
8.9 Excellent
1572 reviews

Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection

The Rocks • Boutique Charm
Ideal for history lovers
Historic Building
Iconic pier design
Bondi 38 Serviced Apartments
Top pick
9.8 Exceptional
545 reviews

Bondi 38 Serviced Apartments

Bondi Beach • Ocean Views
Perfect for beach lovers
Balcony
Private ocean-view balcony

Traditional Local Food Sydney (Australia)

Local Flavours of Sydney — Explore recipes, history, our unique food flavour DNA graph and more.

Snack Vegan

Anzac Biscuits

An-zak Bisc-its

Crunchy oat biscuits with golden syrup and coconut.

Main course Meat

Australian Meat Pie

uh-STRAYL-yuhn meet pie

A savory pie filled with seasoned meat and gravy, enclosed in flaky pastry.

Snack Vegetarian

Avocado Toast

av-oh-KAH-doe toast

Smashed avocado on toasted sourdough, often topped with eggs or feta.

🐟
Main course Fish & Seafood

Barramundi

Bar-rah-mun-dee

Grilled white fish native to Australian waters.

🥩
Street food Meat

Chiko Roll

A deep-fried roll filled with meat and vegetables.

Snack Meat

Dim Sim

A Chinese-influenced snack combining pork and cabbage sealed in a dough.

Main course Fish & Seafood

Fish and Chips

Fish 'n' Chips

A dish of battered and deep-fried fish served with fries.

Main course Meat

Kangaroo Steak

kan-ga-ROO steak

A lean cut of kangaroo meat, typically grilled

Dessert Vegetarian

Lamingtons

LAY-ming-tons

Sponge cake squares dipped in chocolate and rolled in coconut.

Snack Meat

Meat Pie

Meet Pie

A flaky pastry pie filled with minced meat and gravy.

Dessert Vegetarian

Pavlova

Pav-lo-vah

A meringue-based dessert topped with fresh fruits and cream.

Soup Meat

Pea and Ham Soup

Pee and Ham Soop

A hearty soup made from split peas and ham hocks.

Roast Lamb
Main course Meat

Roast Lamb

rohst lam

A traditional Sunday roast dish featuring lamb with vegetables.

Snack Meat

Sausage Sizzle

SAW-sij sizz-l

Grilled sausage on bread served at community gatherings.

Sydney Rock Oyster
Starter Fish & Seafood

Sydney Rock Oyster

SID-nee rock oy-ster

A small, delicate oyster prized for its unique briny flavor.

Activities & Experiences

Things to Do in Sydney

Top-rated tours, day trips and local experiences — book in advance to secure your spot.

City & Country Data Australia (Sydney)

Key travel data for Sydney — cost of living, safety, healthcare, local currency and essentials, curated by Triplandio.

Cost 💰 LOW
Safety 🔒 86
Health 🏥 83
Lifestyle 87
Infra 🏗️ 83
Rank 🎯 #17
Score 📊 66
Tourists ✈️ 1.8M/y
GDP/cap 💵 $65.1k
Life Exp ❤️ 83.1 yrs
Population 👥 27.6M
Currency 💱 AUD A$
Language 🗣️ English
Payments 💳 Cashless
Emergency 🆘 000
Coffee $3.50
Beer 🍺 $8.00
Lunch 🍽️ $15.00
Groceries 🛒 $100.00/w
Taxi/km 🚕 $2.00
Transit 🚇 $3.00
Fuel $1.50/l
Internet 📡 $1.50/m
Salary 💵 $3,000/m

Sydney stay tips for Adventure Seekers

Sky Dive Over Wollongong Beach

Base yourself near Wollongong for easy access to skydiving experiences. After the adrenaline rush, enjoy a candlelit dinner at Glebe’s cozy eateries.

Tip: Wollongong offers skydives at sunset

Abseil the Blue Mountains

Stay near the Blue Mountains for abseiling adventures with panoramic views. Ideal for couples who love outdoor thrills and picturesque landscapes.

Tip: Abseil and admire Blue Mountains

Romantic Sail in Sydney Harbour

Book a stay near Circular Quay to embark on a romantic sailing experience together, surrounded by Sydney’s iconic skyline and vibrant marine life.

Tip: Sail Sydney Harbour, couples' delight

Sydney for Adventure Seekers: FAQ

When is the best time to visit Sydney?

The best time to visit Sydney is September and October — fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, less rain and more sunshine. Compare every month in the seasonal chart above.

What is the most romantic area in Sydney for adventure seekers?

The Rocks offers a blend of adventure with historic charm, featuring cozy lanes, romantic rooftop views, and vibrant nightlife perfect for couples.

Which Sydney areas provide adventure activities close to hotels?

Manly is surrounded by hiking trails and watersport activities, perfect for couples seeking thrilling outdoor adventures without straying too far.

What adventure activities can couples enjoy around Sydney Harbour?

Couples can experience kayaking tours, climbing the Harbour Bridge, or enjoying scenic helicopter rides for an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Are there romantic dinner spots for thrill-seeking couples in Sydney?

Darling Harbour is perfect for couples with restaurants offering panoramic waterfront views, accompanied by vibrant evening lights and live entertainment.

What safety measures should adventure seekers be aware of in Sydney?

Always check the weather forecast, wear appropriate gear, and follow local guidelines when engaging in outdoor activities or extreme sports in Sydney.

Where can couples find spa experiences near adventure hubs in Sydney?

Bondi Beach offers surf schools alongside rejuvenating spa experiences, making it a fantastic spot for relaxation after thrilling activities.

Sydney: Adventure Seekers' Retreat

Escape for Adventure
Explore this curated guide to Sydney's most romantic and adventurous stays perfect for couples. From candlelit dinners by the harbor to exhilarating rooftop views, find an unforgettable base for your Sydney adventure.
  • Romantic hotels
  • Scenic Sydney views
  • Intimate escapes
  • Updated 2026
OceaniaAustraliaSydneyRomantic Escapes in Sydney for Adventure Seekers
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