Vaucluse

Vaucluse Review

The palatial homes in this glamorous harbor suburb provide a glimpse of Sydney's high society. The small beaches at Nielsen Park and Parsley Bay are safe for swimming and provide wonderful views. Both beaches are packed with families in summer.

The suburb takes its name from the 1803 Vaucluse House, one of Sydney's most illustrious remaining historic mansions. The 15-room Gothic Revival house and its lush gardens, managed by the Historic Houses Trust, are open to the public. The tearooms, built in the style of an Edwardian conservatory, are popular spots for lunch and afternoon tea on weekends. The house is one of the stops on the Bondi Explorer bus. MAR Wentworth Rd., Vaucluse, Sydney, NSW. Take bus 325 from Circular Quay bus stand. 02/9388-7922. www.hht.nsw.gov.au. A$8. Fri.-Sun. 9:30-4; daily in Jan.