Lane Cove

Wandering down the pedestrian-only plaza in Lane Cove you’d be forgiven for thinking you were a long way from the Sydney CBD. It’s this charm, combined with beautiful natural surroundings, that keeps Lane Cove at the top of many peoples’ wish lists. Being close to the city, it’s unsurprising that many Lane Cove locals are professionals and office workers. They tend to drive their cars to work or take the bus. Trains aren’t as popular – the nearest stations are Artarmon and Chatswood.

With the Lane Cove River not far away, Lane Cove Bushland Park slicing into the suburb and Lane Cove National Park moments away, this beautiful suburb is a unique location, especially considering its proximity to the city. The mammoth library is a fixture in the centre of town, and is complemented on one side by retail shops as part of Market Square, which lead off into the established village area. Several supermarkets are available, together with restaurants worth travelling for, including some seriously good Thai food.

Lane Cove has its own aquatic centre, 50m and 25m swimming pools and more. Commuters are most likely to drive to work or catch a bus, as the nearest train stations are in neighbouring suburbs. The area is serviced by several public, private and religious schools.

Lane Cove properties include luxury apartments, stunning mansions and large family homes – generally of high quality.

Apartments are still being developed, and it is possible to buy off plans. Some older properties with huge half-acre blocks still exist. There are also several retirement villages with assisted living accommodation. Bush views are a possibility, together with river glimpses. If you’re after a nature-enveloped perch under 10km from the CBD, you’d be hard-pressed to beat Lane Cove.