Lower North Shore: Mosman/ Balmoral Beach
Mosman is one of Sydney’s most exclusive suburbs; with historical aboriginal sites,Taronga Park Zoo, breathtaking views, stunning architecture, gorgeous beaches mixed with boutique shops and first class restaurants. Mosman is really a must do. The Borogegal Aboriginal tribe inhabited the area before the area was settled in 1830 as a whaling station; it now houses Sydney’s most expensive and prestigious real estate. Mosman is home to some of Sydney’s loveliest harbour beaches such as Clifton Gardens, Chinamans, Balmoral, and Obelisk beach. It has some magnificent architecture, where you can find huge federation mansion to small Victorian cottages.
Balmoral Beach.
Sydney most famous walks can also be found in Mosman, leading you along the foreshores of Sydney harbour. Balmoral Beach is well-known for its “Shakespeare-by-the sea” plays in summer at the famous landmark the Rotunda, next door to another landmark Bathers Pavilion. Walk along the promenade and explore the “island” that separates Hunter Beach and Edward beach by a stone foot bridge but don’t forget to get your fish and chips to eat, whilst watching the yachts cruise pass the heads.
Bather's Pavilion
In summer there is a free shuttle bus operating from Spit Junction(Sat and Sun only) to Balmoral Beach, ferries go to Mosman Wharf and a bus connects to Mosman Village. Walk down Raglan Street to Balmoral beach, it’s a long winding road down a very steep hill and catch the bus back to the city. Another alternative is to catch the ferry to Cremorne Wharf and do the walk to Mosman Bay connecting to the bus to Mosman Village.Or catch the ferry to Taronga Park Zoo and do the "Taronga's Wild Australian Experience Tour" for a few hours and catch the bus up to Mosman Village.
Check out www.sydneyferries.info for timetables and information on walks.Buses leave Wynyard Station (stop 247).
Balmoral Swimming pool
Another adventurous way to see this area is to hire a Kayak at The Spit Bridge and paddle over to Clontarf Beach/Chinaman's and Balmoral Beach. Check out www.Sydneyharbourkayaks.com.au .Costs per person $15.00 per hour. You can also take a Half Day Tour with a experienced crew and see the awesome sights of Middle Harbour, visiting Aboriginal sites in the area, and the Garrigal National Park, Cost $99.00 per person. Duration 4hrs operating only on Saturday and Sunday. Kayaks can now be hired at the Balmoral swimming pool.
Buses run from Wynyard Station at Stand 3 to the Spit Bridge.Hop off at the reserve and cross the road at the lights, and proceed to walk north along the promenade.You will see their office perched on the waterfront.For timetables on buses - www.sta.nsw.gov/au/timetable/ .There are plenty of top restaurants based at The Spit, where one can indulge themselves with excellent food and stunning views.From take-a-away fish and chips to exclusive waterfront fine dining.
The Rotunda
If time permits you can also hire a houseboat and cruise up Middle Harbour and explore the small inlet coves and beaches that are hidden amongst some of Sydney's most exclusive suburbs.Located at Sandy Bay Road Clontarf Marina. www.Middleharbourhouseboats.com for a truely rare experience, this is a Must Do.
