The very name ‘Balls Head Reserve’ does invite a snide snicker, but all that fades into a shade when one actually visits the area. This is one more of the famous ‘green belt’ areas of Sydney smack in the midst of a total concrete jungle and most of them are naturally located in the proximity of the harbour foreshore, thus providing a scenic splendour.

But as compared to the other ‘reserve’ spots, there is something quite different about the Balls Head Reserve, and we do mean from not just geographical, but also a historical point of view. If you care to walk a little, do hike through some inland paths with ledges and you will get to see some fairly discernible and very ancient Aborginal rock paintings, including a few odd carvings. It’s these that make this site straight out of History, giving some insight to the original aborginal settlers of Australia, which would be way before the first white man made his landing on this continent country.

The most obvious reason that draws people here is the unparallel scenic beauty of the place. The Balls Head Reserve can actually boast of the of the spectacular waterline reserve, being practically based right near the water overlooking the Harbour Bridge. This is one place of visit where your eyes will feel feasted, and the clicks of your camera may be questioned for their authencity. The absolutely enchanting panoramic sweep cuts across North Sydney to the Darling Harbour, and then from Anzac Bridge on to the Balmain and Rozelle. In between, one just cannot miss the sprawling landmark; the lotus shaped Sydney Opera House.

The most convenient transport modes to get to the Balls Head Reserve are a car, though we would recommend a train ride to the Waverton Train Station from where it is barely a ten minute walk. For more precise directions, once outside Waverton Station, one needs to walk left towards the Bay Road and then turn right just before the Harbour.

Besides the inland paths that help stretch the legs for a real worthwhile walk, and the scenic splendour that soothes the eyes, the Balls Head Reserve is actually a beautiful picnic spot with BBQ facility. This is one reserve that deserves a day spend with family or friends. And remember, the camera is always part of your attire. After all, this is amongst the locales that project Sydney on various colored brochures.