Merry Christmas my Dear Readers! This week I’m jetsetting over to Hong Kong for a three weeks’ journey so I’m handing over this space to my precious blogger friend Bec who shares her inspirational musings on Daily Inspiration Baord. Now let her local knowledge guide you to the best hidden spots around where she calls home at the beautiful North Sydney…
I may be slightly biased, having grown up in the area, but Sydney’s North Shore is certainly up there in terms of the most beautiful destinations in the city. Off the train line, the area is frequented mainly by locals and the places to go are largely known through word of mouth.
Within Sydney, the most well-known travel destinations would have to be Bondi, the CBD and of course, Manly – just a ferry-ride across the harbour from Sydney city. The North Shore is nestled in Sydney’s beautiful harbour and spreads its branches back inland; it is certainly worth a visit if you’re travelling to Sydney. It’s about 15-30 minutes’ drive from Manly, and can be accessed by ferries all along its shores; by buses which run along the main road from the CBD; or by driving across the Harbour Bridge from Sydney city.
If you’re planning a visit, my recommendations span Mosman and also Neutral Bay – my home suburb, and a true hub of the North Shore, featuring plenty of cafes, restaurants and bars to relax in.
Given my love of fine food and wine, this guide is quite taste-oriented – but it’s all about the experience, too.
Balmoral Beach
Tucked away in Sydney Harbour, Balmoral Beach is well worth its $12-$20-an-hour parking rates. (Standard, in Sydney!). With perfectly calm waters, a pristine beach, divine cafes and beautiful houses, it’s great for a visit with kids or a long, romantic brunch. It is home to The Boat House, Balmoral; a gourmet café where you can dine right out on a deck on the water, and the renowned restaurant and café overlooking the shore, Bather’s Pavilion – owned by chef Serge Dancereau. Take a beach bag and spend a luxurious day sunning, swimming and eating fine fare.
The Oaks Hotel, Neutral Bay
The Oaks Hotel is well-known by locals for many a good night out. Rumour has it that it has the best steak in Sydney, too. Grab a craft beer in the garden and finish up with a game of pool with friends. If you’re still hungry after all that, grab a pizza at Sven’s – the finest Swedish pizza on the North Shore, and definitely my take away of choice. What makes it better is that the delivery guy brings you pizza to your home dressed as a Viking on a motorbike. No joke.
Bourke Street Bakery, Neutral Bay
Previously reserved for the busy city-fringe suburb Surry Hills, Bourke Street Bakery has recently come to Neutral Bay on Sydney’s North Shore. In Surry Hills, the place is well-known for its queues out the door on weekends. In Neutral Bay, it’s a little more laid back – with more available seating. Come get your pastries and pies!
Images and words by Rebecca Sands.
Rebecca Sands is the founder of lifestyle blog Daily Inspiration Board, featuring inspirational musings from Australia on the topics of travel, career, health, style and celebrity. Follow Daily Inspiration Board on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
So tell me fellow travellers, are you ready to follow Bec’s journey? Have you been to any other off the beaten track places around Sydney that you’d recommend? Would love to hear your comments!
x
Juliet