Holiday houses in Balmain

A trendy suburb northwest of Sydney, Balmain is set along the harbour and has incredible views of the city skyline in the distance. Just 15 minutes from Sydney’s Central Business District (CBD), Balmain makes for an inviting place to wind down as well as a great base for exploring the capital of New South Wales. Originally a working-class hub, it’s now known for its pubs, cafes, and variety of shopping experiences. Diverse eateries serve up everything from international food to fresh, local seafood on Darling Street. And travellers looking to come home with something unique can visit the antique shops for second-hand collectors items from books to home decor.

With four distinct seasons and plenty of parks, you can enjoy spending time in nature here without venturing out to Australia’s countryside. And if you want to explore Sydney, you can experience the classic ferry ride from Balmain to the city centre where you can fill a day touring the museums and world-renowned architectural sights.

Balmain enjoys mild winters, and a warm summer, autumn and spring, making it a destination that’s nice to visit year-round. Autumn and spring differ slightly from summer with their cooler evening temperatures. Spring is a lovely time of year in Balmain, when you can spot many bright purple jacaranda trees in full bloom. During the warm summers, visitors can cool off with a swim in the Dawn Fraser Baths or visit Balmain’s Elkington Park to relax under one of its ripened fig trees while gazing out toward the harbour. During the pleasant autumn season, the Balmain farmer’s market pops up weekly, serving handmade gifts, food, and live music. As winter gets chilly, it’s an ideal time to visit the shops on Darling Street to browse everything from second-hand books to high-end fashion.

Goat Island

You can take the ferry or rent a kayak and paddle over to Goat Island, a local landmark in the Sydney Harbour National Park. Goat Island offers guided tours where you can learn about several important Aboriginal sites. In the 19th century, the island was used as a sandstone quarry and prison, and in the 20th century, the intriguing Harbour Master’s House was built. As you take in the panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour, you’ll discover how this island helped shape Sydney into what it is today.

Darling Street

Balmain’s central shopping district along Darling Street is a haven for both vintage goods and high-end boutiques. For more than 20 years, shoppers have visited the outdoor stalls at Rozelle Collectors Market on Darling Street every weekend in search of nostalgic collector’s items like Victorian tea sets and vintage records. Along the street, you will also find modern home decor shops and clothing stores, running the gamut from pre-loved clothing to luxury attire.

Art Gallery on Darling

The Art Gallery on Darling displays contemporary art and rotating exhibits from resident artists, including artworks from sculptures to paintings, ceramics, and print photography. The gallery hosts daytime and evening events where visitors can meet the artists, and some pieces are available for purchase as well.