Balmoral Historical Memories

Because of Balmoral’s proximity to the city, for over a hundred years holiday makers have made it their beach of choice, flocking at weekends to enjoy its gently sloping sandy beach and pristine water and… to soak up the sun.

Ferries ran from the city to Balmoral Wharf and as Balmoral was then the closest beach to those living on the north shore of the harbour, trams ran to the Tram Shed – halfway along what is now known as The Esplanade.

The trams have long gone but the Tram Shed is still there and is now a bus shelter.

At the northern end of Balmoral is the exclusive enclave, Edward’s Beach, where The Oriana commands the peak location.

Over the years lifestyles and beach fashions have changed with beachgoers becoming less formally attired. The photo below from the late 1920s was taken from Carol Reserve – the bush reserve above The Oriana. The Oriana’s original pitched roof is in the foreground. The second level modern Penthouse, where our guests now stay, was added in more recent years.

However the 270 degree panoramic view from The Oriana has not changed and nor has the popularity of Balmoral with its bush reserves to explore.