Artarmon is a charming North Sydney suburb, founded in 1794. Gorgeous heritage buildings are blended in with modern urban life to create a community with deep roots. The suburb and its surrounds are a delight for history buffs, foodies, nature lovers and just about anyone seeking a little slice of adventure. With lots of things to explore, the best way to see it all is with a rental car from Hertz.
Begin your day by picking up your hire car and grabbing a spot of breakfast at one of Artarmon’s many cafes. After a bite to eat at a local cafe, head for a stroll and admire some of the suburb’s compelling architecture from days gone by, such as Artarmon Library, the Mowbray Family Practice, and the Chatswood South Uniting Church.
For those with a sporting inclination, the excellent Chatswood Golf Club offers the opportunity to enjoy a round in peaceful, picturesque surrounds.
For an even more peaceful, relaxing and spiritual experience, the Kyegu Tibetan Buddhist Temple is well worth a visit, allowing visitors to learn about, explore and experience the teachings of Buddha. For more serenity and nature, a visit to nearby Lane Cove National Park and St Leonards Park offers ample opportunity for even more relaxation.
Explore Wendy’s Secret Garden
Artarmon is also home to some beloved hidden gems. Wendy’s Secret Garden in the stunning Lavender Bay is breathtaking, and also comes with a sweet back story that has been immortalised in “Wendy Whiteley and the Secret Garden.” The garden isn’t really a secret at all. In fact, it is one of the worst kept secrets in Sydney. The garden has been talked about on the radio, in newspapers, and featured on television. Every year, thousands of people from all over Australia and the world visit the gardens. Jump in a rental car and make your own visit. You won’t be disappointed.
Look out for an Irish-inspired castle
Innisfallen Castle is an Irish-style castle that’s over one hundred years old, and quite unexpected to find only a short drive out of the hustle and bustle of Sydney CBD.
Innisfallen Castle and grounds is a heritage-listed mansion located at 14 Cherry Place, Castle Cove. The property is privately-owned but was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register in 1999.
The mansion was built during 1803-1805 by Henry Hastings Wills, a former Member and Speaker of the Parliament of New South Wales. The house was named in honour of a ruined abbey in Killarney, Ireland
Lane Cove Bushland Park
Lane Cove Bushland Park is located in suburban Lane Cove, just five kilometres from Sydney’s CBD. The park is widely known for its diverse and interesting array of fungi that grow in the area, some of which are amongst the rarest in the country. The soil and climate in the park allows fungi to thrive.
Lane Cove Bushland Park is home to a species of fungus, known as the Hygrocybe lanecovensis, which is endangered and not found anywhere else. The species was discovered in the 1990s and is now closely monitored.
Artarmon is a wonderful example of the abundance of secret sights to be discovered in suburban Sydney. For the best way to see it all, jump in a rental car and hit the road.
Wherever you choose to explore, you’ll get there in a hire car from Hertz.
