Village Vibe Archives - LIFE OUT & ABOUT

Millthorpe Historic Village

In Springtime

In October 2020 we headed west on a NSW country road trip. One of our favourite stops was the historic village of Millthorpe, a heritage listed village in the Central West and part of the Orange Wine Region. Cherry blossoms and flowering gardens lined the streets and the surrounding hills were blanketed in yellow canola and brilliant purple. Paterson’s curse never looked so beautiful! Many of Millthorpe’s historic buildings have been lovingly restored so there are plenty of photo opportunities for those who love quaint villages. Millthorpe has good accommodation options, wonderful cafes and the very popular Tonic Restaurant. This tiny village has reinvented itself as a tourist destination, and I only wish we’d stayed a couple of nights!

Kirribilli Urban Walk

Iconic Harbourside Stroll

There is so much to enjoy on this walk around Kirribilli, from leafy streets and historic homes to superb harbour views. While I’m always impressed with the harbour and city views, it is the charming streetscapes that really capture my attention. In particular, I adore the grand mansions and stylish terrace homes, many with fine Victorian lacework balconies. My favourite street would have to be Fitzroy street, especially in the Autumn…. although Summer and Spring are very special too!

Charming Birchgrove

Surrounded by Water

Tucked in neatly behind Balmain and surrounded by water on three sides makes Birchgrove an inspiring destination. The waterfront reserves and attractive homes and gardens are just some of its many charms.

Balmain Vibe Upbeat Eclectic

Vibrant Eclectic

A suburb that was once a quiet harbour front village has transformed over the years into a bustling suburb of cafes, bars, boutique shops and galleries. The streets of Balmain are filled with thoughtfully renovated cottages, historic buildings and leafy harbourside walks.

Wentworth Falls Village

Arts & Eats… Indulge Yourself

Art galleries, eateries, waterfalls and an abundance of magnificent hiking trails surround the charming village of Wentworth Falls. With plenty of mountain retreat accommodation it’s easy to justify a weekend away here, yet also very accessible for a day trip from Sydney. Continue reading “Wentworth Falls Village”

University of Sydney & Glebe

Atmospheric Neo-Gothic

University of Sydney is Australia’s oldest university campus. With its striking neo-gothic sandstone structures and the impressive award-winning Law School Building, there is much to see and enjoy here… particularly if you love architecture. In addition, the University is in close proximity to the vibrant Glebe village where you will find plenty of eateries and bars, as well as boutique shops and art galleries.

Continue reading “University of Sydney & Glebe”

Southern Highlands Country Life

Villages & Rolling Hills

Connecting the historic towns and villages of the Southern Highlands is a network of quiet country roads. Rolling hills, tree lined farms and boutique wineries make the Highlands an idyllic place to explore by car, bike… or on foot! Also, with an impressive selection of fine dining restaurants and quality accommodation it’s easy to appreciate why many Sydneysiders find the Highlands a perfect destination for a weekend or day trip getaway, only 90 minutes drive south west of Sydney. Continue reading “Southern Highlands Country Life”

Creatives of the Southern Highlands

Antiques Arts Crafts & Homewares

90 minute drive south west of Sydney takes you to the heart of the picturesque Southern Highlands, home to a number of superb contemporary art and craft galleries, quirky antique shops and excellent eateries. There is also a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets. It’s certainly easy to justify a weekend escape or day trip here!

Whether you plan a romantic weekend away, or a day trip with friends, you will be sure to enjoy this beautiful part of NSW.

Continue reading “Creatives of the Southern Highlands”

Lilyfield’s Venetian Clock Tower

Tower on the Hill

Dominating the Lilyfield skyline is the historic venetian clock tower of the Sydney College of the Arts (SCA) complex. An impressive site, surrounded by a cluster of beautiful old sandstone buildings and massive wrought iron gates. There are also extensive lawns, large shady trees and tall palms dotting the estate, making it a perfect place for a picnic.

Alternatively, why not take a short stroll along the popular Bay Run. Head north toward Rozelle and Balmain where you will find a zillion cafes for a bite to eat… or plenty of boutique shops to explore! Continue reading “Lilyfield’s Venetian Clock Tower”

Leura Village Charm

The Garden Village

Leura village is often referred to as The Jewel in the Mountains Crown. With a garden village atmosphere and an abundance of boutique accommodation, speciality shops, galleries and eateries, it is easy to understand why it attracts such attention. Beyond the busy mall you will find mountain vistas, inspiring bushwalks and historic gardens and homes.

Castlecrag’s Hidden Paths

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.

Ultimo Architecture & Art

City Edge Transformed

An amazing transformation has taken place in the Ultimo area over the last 20 years. From derelict warehouses and industrial sites to a vibrant community of character cafes, restored terraces, art galleries and ‘out there’ Frank Gehry architecture! Also, close by in Chippendale is the well known White Rabbit Gallery, housing the largest and most significant collection of contemporary Chinese art. Continue reading “Ultimo Architecture & Art”

McMahons Pt Village Café Life

Village Vibe

McMahons Pt village has much to offer with it’s lively café scene, harbour views and leafy suburb walks. While it has a great selection of cafés, restaurants and bars, it is also a beautiful place to explore on foot. In addition, the charming Wendy Whiteley Secret Garden at Lavender Bay is only minutes away. Wherever you wander in this area you will be delighted, it is truly one of Sydney’s hidden gems!