Overview
Looking to book your next getaway with that special someone? Don't look past Vaucluse, where Nielsen Park's Steele Point Cottage has reopened to the public. Set within Sydney Harbour National Park, the waterfront property offers a rare mix of sweeping harbour views combined with a true bushland getaway — all without leaving Sydney.
Built in 1880 as a gunners' barracks and located on a headland that overlooks Sydney Harbour, the historic cottage has been recently restored. The refurbished one-bedroom has timber floors and furniture, white linens and pale yellow hues. There's a master bedroom with four-poster bed and a gold-trimmed bathroom with a freestanding ceramic bathtub — plus, separate kitchen, lounge and sun rooms. Outside, there's an expansive private terrace with a barbecue and dining table that overlooks the harbour.
Gareth Pickford
Once you're ready to leave your comfy surrounds, there's plenty of coast and bushland to explore, all within walking distance. Start with a harbourside walk along the Hermitage Foreshore Track — a 1.5 kilometre trail along the harbour foreshore which offers views of Shark Island, the Harbour Bridge and the grounds of the heritage-listed Strickland House.
Then, once you're ready for a dip, head to Shark Beach, which is only 100 metres from the cottage. If you're keen for a meal out of the house, Nielsen Park offers plenty of private picnic spots to choose from, along with The Nielsen cafe, which overlooks Shark Beach.
Bookings for Steele Point Cottage are now available via the National Parks website. Prices range from $380–580 per night.
Images: Gareth Pickford and John Spencer.