Nielsen Park

Generations of Sydneysiders have been flocking to Nielsen Park for family get-togethers since the early 1900s. They sit on Shark Beach or the grassy slopes behind or climb the headlands either side for a great view across the harbour. With its abundance of shady trees, gentle waters, panoramic views and the excellent Nielsen Park Café & Restaurant (see p101), it’s the perfect picnic spot. It’s also a favourite New Year’s Eve viewing point for the harbour fireworks. Nestled in the grounds to the rear of the grassy slopes lies Greycliffe House, a Gothic-style mansion built in 1862 as a wedding gift from the co-founder and first editor of the Australian newspaper, William Charles Wentworth, for his daughter Fanny and her husband John Reeve. In 1913 it became a baby hospital, then a home for new mothers. Nowadays it’s a NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service office, providing information on parks in the state. Watch out for the seaplanes that take off in neighbouring Rose Bay and begin their ascent over the waters of Shark Bay. Bus 325. Open 5am-10pm daily.