Cremorne Point Hidden Oasis

Harbourside Gardens & Pool

Cremorne Point is well known for its superb harbourside walk and city vistas, yet many locals are totally unaware of the beauty that lays just below the main paths. On the eastern side of Cremorne Point is the Lex and Ruby Graham Garden, a hidden oasis of exotic plants and flowers, miniature trails and stone cut stairs. Then off the western path, concealed by overhanging trees is one of the best view swimming pools in Sydney, the Maccallum Seawater Pool.

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Lex & Ruby Graham Gardens

The Lex and Ruby Graham Garden comprises a network of paths that lead down to the water’s edge. Surrounded by lush vegetation and large sandstone walls makes this is a particularly inspiring garden.

History

The Lex and Ruby Graham Gardens began in 1959 when local resident Lex Graham planted an elephant’s ear bulb which he’d fished from the ocean on his morning swim. To his surprise the bulb blossomed!

Inspired by this development Lex and his partner Ruby started to add other plants and cuttings. The steep slopes that had previously been used as a tip for decades were gradually cleared of weeds. In the process all manner of junk was discovered… from mattresses and refrigerators to whalebone corsets and even a kitchen sink!!!

In 1978 the local council installed a permanent network of hoses and sprinklers. The garden is now an intimate and charming garden protected by the National Trust.

Hidden… where?

To find the ‘hidden gardens’, take the stairs opposite Cremorne Point ferry wharf. On the main path you will see a large home with paths going left and right. Take the right hand fork and follow it for approx. 5 minutes, the Lex & Ruby Graham Gardens are on your right  and signposted (refer map below).

Maccallum Seawater Pool

With expansive harbour views this idyllic spot on the western side of Cremorne Point has been enjoyed by locals since the 1920s. What started out as a rock pool created by former Olympic swimmer Fred Lane, quickly became a place where the local community gathered to escape the summer heat. The 33m pool was named after local resident Hugh Maccallum… he maintained, renovated and expanded the pool.

Framed by timber decking and shaded by trees the pool is an ideal place to relax, sunbake and fritter away a few hours.

Check opening times:

Cremorne Point Circuit Walk

The Cremorne Point walk is an easy 3km foreshore circuit trail with beautiful views across Mosman Bay, Sydney Harbour and the city skyline. The circuit takes approx. 90 minutes and is well worth the effort. In addition to the wonderful views there are many magnificent homes, historic mansions, gardens and manicured lawns.

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Where to Eat!

Cremorne Point is an idyllic spot but there are limited eating options. Over the years a number of small cafés have come and gone from the Cremorne Pt and Mosman Bay ferry wharves. The Café Monstera at Mosman Bay wharf (previously Cafe Moby) is perfectly situated to enjoy views of the bay. It serves simple food and coffee.

At the end of Mosman Bay is the popular Mosman Rowers. You will need to check the web-site for visitor access to the cafe/restaurant and bar.

Alternatively take a 10-15 minute walk to either the Spofforth St or Avenue Rd cafés (refer map below). One of our favourites in the last year has been the Sunflower Lounge café located at 37a Spofforth St Cremorne… just 20 minutes walk from Cremorne Point ferry wharf or 15 minutes from the Lex & Ruby Graham Gardens.

About 10 minutes walk uphill from Mosman Bay ferry wharf, at the corner of Avenue Rd and Canrobert St are a couple of good cafés to choose from.  If you’re extra energetic continue up Avenue Rd for a further 10 minutes to Mosman shopping precinct where you will find plenty of choice.

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Information

Where: Sydney Lower Nth Shore–6km Nth of CBD
Getting there: Ferry from Circular Quay
To Cremorne Pt, Old Cremorne or Mosman Bay Wharf.
Also, plenty of parking in the area.
Open: All day every day – no entry fees
Allow: 2-3 hours
Visit:Explore Lower North Shore

Map