Designer Homes & Secret Paths
Castlecrag’s architect designed homes sit perfectly in their natural bush settings, surrounded by old stone walls, gum trees and lush foliage, while bushy cul-de-sacs hide the access to a maze of meandering pathways.
The suburb was originally planned by husband and wife team Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin. Their vision was to prevent unsympathetic development in the area, as well as protect the native flora and fauna.
Where: Sydney Lower North Shore–8km Nth of CBD | Allow: 1/2 day
Getting there: Buses – Drive 20 mins from CBD
Also see: Lower North Shore Walks
What to See and Do in Castlecrag
1. The Village ~ Griffin Centre Shops
Neatly tucked into a small area on Edinburgh Rd, just off Eastern Valley Way are the village cafes/restaurants and shops. The village was abuzz when I visited recently. Locals were out and about enjoying the warm spring weather and café scene. By the time I exited my first homewares store most of the lunchtime crowd had all but gone. It was time for a coffee…. and then another boutique!
2. Castlecrag Bush & Suburb Walks
The streets of Castlecrag are all named after parts of a castle: The Barbette, The Barbican, The Barricade, The Bastion and so on. You will find that many of the cul-de-sacs hide the access to a network of winding pathways. These paths lead you through lush bushland, down old mossy stairs and narrow tracks between the houses. Eventually you will emerge into yet another cul-de-sac! It is easy to get lost in this maze of paths, but such fun to discover more secret paths, you will eventually find your way out:-)
We often start our walk near the village shops. Heading east, turn right at the first roundabout, into The Postern. Walk a little way along and on the left between The Parrapet and The Rampart you will find a path. Enjoy the discovery!
Here’s a little starter map for walks: Willoughby Council
Don’t be surprised to find an arrow pointing you down someone’s garden path or driveway. The intention here is to share the space, but please be considerate and only go where the arrows point.
You might even stumble across the remains of the old Haven Scenic Amphitheatre… a unique performance space set amongst the ferns and tall gums. This was designed to bring the community together to enjoy cultural events in a natural bushland setting. Apparently the council are progressing plans for works to make the site safe again for public access.
3. Castlecrag Architecture
The hidden paths are a wonderful discovery, but just walking the streets and admiring some of the stunning architect designed homes is also enjoyable. If you follow Edinburgh Rd to Sugar Loaf Point and back via ‘The Tor Walk’ you will discover some fabulous homes and harbour views.
Castlecrag Eat & Drink
There are a number of eating options in Castlecrag, all contained within the tiny one block village. For something casual you might want to grab a table under the trees at one of the cafes on Edinburgh road. Best to just wander and see what takes your fancy on the day.
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