Photo: Maksym Kozlenko / CC BY-SA 3.0
Terrey Hills, a leafy suburb on Sydney’s northern beaches, offers a serene escape with its bushland setting, equestrian estates, and a handful of excellent dining spots. Tucked between the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and the bustle of the coast, this area feels a world away from city life. It’s a perfect stop for travellers driving between Sydney and the Central Coast, especially those keen on nature walks, horseback riding, or a relaxed meal in a country-style setting.
Highlights & What to See
- Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park – Just minutes away, this park offers superb Aboriginal rock art sites, scenic lookouts like West Head, and walking trails through eucalypt forests.
- Terrey Hills Equestrian Centre – Book a guided horse ride through the bush; even beginners can enjoy a gentle trail ride surrounded by native wildlife.
- Bilarong Reserve – A peaceful park with a lake, picnic areas, and a children’s playground; ideal for a family stop.
- Golf at Terrey Hills Golf & Country Club – A challenging 18-hole course set in natural bushland, with a clubhouse that serves hearty meals.
- Local Art Galleries – Duck into small galleries showcasing works by Northern Beaches artists, often set in charming heritage buildings.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most visitors spend half a day to a full day in Terrey Hills. If you’re combining it with Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, allocate a full day: start with a morning bushwalk, have lunch at a local café (try the famous pies at the Terrey Hills Pie Shop), then explore the park’s lookouts in the afternoon. If you’re just stopping for a meal or a short walk, 1–2 hours is enough.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park – Drive to West Head for panoramic views over Pittwater and the Barrenjoey Lighthouse.
- Palm Beach – A 20-minute drive takes you to this iconic beach, home to the Barrenjoey Headland walk and stylish cafés.
- Avalon Beach – A laid-back surf beach with a vibrant village atmosphere and excellent coffee spots.
- Mona Vale – Head here for more beach options, the Mona Vale Golf Course, and the scenic Bilarong Reserve walking track.
- Newport – Known for its picturesque marina, waterfront dining, and the start of the Pittwater to Patonga ferry service.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park — Anton Leddin / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Palm Beach — File:Palm Beach from the Barrenjoey Lighthouse.jpg : Kapitan1999 derivative work: Georgfotoart / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Avalon Beach — Mike Funnell / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Mona Vale — noah.odonoghue / CC BY 3.0
- Newport — Brooklyn3012 / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Northern Beaches — Murray Foubister / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Pittwater — MrActiniuM / CC BY-SA 4.0