After a winding drive down Lawrence Hargrave Drive (named after Australia’s aviation pioneer, who lived in the area during the late 1800s), you will be enchanted by the beautiful village of Stanwell Park. As well as a spectacular beach there are many other attractions for the visitor.
At the bottom of the hill, turn left opposite the old service station and you will come to Pepie’s One Stop Corner Shop and next door, Ruby’s Kitchen which serves lovely food and great coffee (ph 4294 1822) and up on the next corner is an art gallery and café, Parklife Art Gallery Café, combining fine food and art (ph 4294 4402 café and 4294 4307 gallery).
Another must is the 111 Lawrence Hargrave Drive complex open Friday to Sunday which is home to Articles Fine Art Gallery (Ph 4294 2491), owned by local artist John Vander and his wife, Frances.
Here you will see a wide selection of John’s popular work, much of it reflecting local themes and scenes, plus that of other Australian luminaries including David Boyd and David Brayshaw.
Also in the complex is the Stanwell Park Boutique stocked with fabulous ladies fashion and accessories (ph 4294 3111) and the Palms Cafe with its fabulous menu
(ph 4294 3371).
To find Stanwell Park Reserve, retrace your steps to Pepie’s and turn down the hill. Just on the right on Station Street is the Essential Surf & Skate shop for all your surf and skate needs (ph 4294 4838) and inside you’ll also find Essential Surf School running surfing lessons (ph 0407 283 117).
At the bottom of Station Street is a magnificent park featuring a children’s playground and bike track, barbeque and picnic facilities.
This is also the spot where the hanggliders land, which is an ever popular spectacle for young and old alike. Beyond the reserve is the stunning Stanwell Park beach which is patrolled and is a great spot for surfers and swimmers.
If you want to stay overnight, try B&B at 63 (ph 0411 049 065), Fernleigh Cottage B&B (ph 4294 1991) both in Stanwell Park or Top Stay Accommodation (ph 1300 857 100).
Up at Stanwell Tops see the paragliders and hanggliders take off. If you want to give it a go call Warren Windsports (ph 0434 222 111) or Sydney Paragliding (ph 0408 864 083).
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