PROPERTY OF THE WEEK: 5 Hume Avenue, Wentworth Falls

Wentworth Falls and its environs are some of the most sought-after regions in the Blue Mountains. Known for its resplendent beauty and historic charm, the suburb offers an idyllic lifestyle that many dream of. With its serene environment, easy access to amenities, and rich history, it’s a location that offers both convenience and tranquillity.

This property at 5 Hume Avenue, known as “Ryeworth”, offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of history. This stunning north-facing, high-set, single-level, circa 1879 character cottage is steeped in local history and embodies everything you love about mountain retreats.

The first thing to be noted about this historic four-bedroom, three-bathroom cottage is its meticulous preservation and modern updates, which create a harmonious blend of old-world charm and contemporary comfort. Privately set on an enormous 2,666sqm block, the property is approved for sub-division, offering future owners the potential to create additional living spaces or even new homes on the land.

Elegantly appointed living spaces include two king-sized bedrooms with fireplaces, the primary with an ensuite. The formal lounge and dining rooms each feature their own fireplaces, adding to the home’s antiquated appeal. The third bedroom includes a built-in robe, and the home also boasts a generous kitchen and family bathroom. At the rear, the fourth bedroom, third bathroom, and laundry provide versatile living options.

The home’s features are a testament to its period allure: a timber-panelled country-style kitchen with a feature original wood-fired cooker, quality stainless steel appliances with natural gas cooktop, and a walk-in pantry. Central heating, a wood-burning combustion fireplace, and three open fireplaces ensure comfort throughout. Gorgeous period features include soaring 10.5-foot ceilings with ceiling roses and ornate cornices, timber floors with tall skirtings, chair rails, timber windows, leadlight and French timber doors, pull cord lights, and federation brass switches.

The front bullnose veranda is the perfect place to relax and watch the world go by, while the large rear undercover area is ideal for family BBQs and entertaining friends. The established gardens are easy to maintain, and the grassy 2,666sqm fenced yard with two street frontages (rear vehicle access via Fitzstubbs Ave), double carport, and two garden sheds, approved for sub-division (1300sqm & 1366sqm lots), offers a myriad of possibilities.

For those who have been searching for the right home opportunity, “Ryeworth” could signal the end of your search. Located in one of Wentworth Falls’ most picturesque and sought-after streets, it’s a historic gem with modern conveniences.

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Address: 5 Hume Avenue, Wentworth Falls, NSW

Price guide: On Request

Agent: Glen Power (0413 330 949)

At the northern tip of Point Piper, hidden from the street and positioned directly on Sydney Harbour, “Radford” combines cinematic views, rare waterfront access and a fascinating connection to one of Australia’s most storied estates.

The five-bedroom residence occupies land once belonging to Paradis Sur Mer, the celebrated three-block waterfront estate that made Australian property history in 1982. The original mansion became the country’s first home reported to have sold for more than $5 million—and may also have inspired one of its fastest and most profitable resales.

Property developer and yachtsman Bernard Lewis purchased the estate at auction for $5.25 million, only to sell it within hours to English betting magnate and thoroughbred breeder Robert Sangster. Lewis reportedly made a $500,000 profit in the process.

Sangster renamed the property Toison D’Or—French for “Golden Fleece” and the name of one of his racehorses—and established it as a Sydney base with his then-wife, Susan. The estate subsequently changed hands and identities again, becoming Paradis Sur Mer, or “Paradise on the Sea”, during Susan’s marriage to financier Sir Frank Renouf.

After another headline-making sale near the peak of Sydney’s late-1980s property boom, the original mansion was eventually demolished and the waterfront holding subdivided. “Radford” now stands on one of those prized parcels, carrying a thread of that extraordinary history into the present day.

Harbour views take centre stage

Designed by award-winning architect Victor Berk and constructed in the early 1990s, the three-level modernist residence has been planned around its exceptional position.

Panoramic views stretch from the Sydney Harbour Bridge across Shark Island and Rose Bay to Manly. A prized northerly aspect fills the home with natural light, while bedrooms and living spaces open to decks, balconies and terraces overlooking the water.

The main living areas flow to a broad alfresco entertaining terrace, sunny swimming pool and level harbourfront lawn. Beyond the garden, a private jetty completes the quintessential Sydney waterfront lifestyle.

Inside, generous proportions make the home equally suited to private family life and large-scale entertaining. The formal dining area can accommodate up to 14 guests, while a Gaggenau-appointed kitchen incorporates an island, walk-in pantry and casual breakfast area opening to the poolside deck.

A fireplace anchors the principal living space, complemented by high ceilings, travertine floors and expansive glazing that keeps the harbour present throughout the home.

A private sanctuary on every level

The main bedroom is accompanied by two walk-in wardrobes, a sitting area and an ensuite featuring a spa bath, separate shower and twin basins. Three further bedrooms each have an ensuite, while a gym with its own kitchenette, built-in storage and bathroom can serve as a fifth bedroom or private guest retreat.

Additional spaces include a fitted home office, an upper-level family area, sauna, two powder rooms and a substantial laundry. A lift connects all three levels, and the central staircase sits beneath an atrium-style glass roof fitted with an electric retractable blind.

Ducted and zoned air-conditioning, extensive storage and a security alarm add everyday practicality. Internal access leads to an oversized secure double garage, with additional driveway parking.

Set in an elite cul-de-sac on one of Australia’s most prestigious waterfront streets, “Radford” is close to Lady Martins Beach, Prince Edward Yacht Club, the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Rose Bay’s marinas and leading schools. Double Bay’s restaurants, boutiques and village amenities are only minutes away.

It is an exceptional harbourfront residence in its own right—but its connection to the record-breaking Paradis Sur Mer estate gives it a place within the wider story of Sydney real estate.

Property details

Address: Wolseley Road, Point Piper, NSW
Bedrooms: Five, including a flexible gym or guest suite
Bathrooms: Five, plus two powder rooms
Parking: Oversized double garage and additional driveway space
Key features: Northerly aspect, panoramic harbour views, private jetty, swimming pool, level waterfront lawn, lift, sauna, home office and Gaggenau kitchen
Architect: Victor Berk
Agents: Michael Pallier, Sydney Sotheby’s & Brad Pillinger, Pillinger