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If it is a cosy relaxing Winter weekend get-away you're after, amongst the bushland and tranquil countryside, visiting a region of the Southern Highlands of NSW is an absolute must! Kangaroo Valley is approx. a 2-hour drive south of Sydney with plenty of places to stop off during the journey.
As promised, it certainly is a picturesque village, with cafés, bakeries, boutique shops and a pub in the heart of the town - it really has a very close-knit community vibe.
PLACES TO VISIT:
Bendeela Recreational Area (10 min drive from the centre of Kangaroo Valley)
Here you will see the Wombats and Kangaroos roaming around the grounds freely, amongst other wildlife along the river. Get a selfie with a wombat - but do not go too close, and if you are lucky enough to get near to the cute Roo's capture the moment. We visited while the sun was starting to set and listening to the wildlife was magical as the sun descended behind the tall trees and we could see the mountains in the distance. It is free entry, and there is also the opportunity to hire out canoes/kayaks to take a trip along the river. Plenty of space for picnics and barbecues and bask in the fresh countryside air!
Hampden Bridge
You won't miss this as you will literally cross this when you get to it on your way to Bendeela - albeit very slowly, as it is a suspension bridge. (Fantastic culture and history behind it) There is an opportunity to cross the bridge on foot also, and you can also walk underneath it for amazing views along the Kangaroo River.
Fitzroy Falls (20 min drive from the centre of Kangaroo Valley)
Paradise found! Be prepared to get your steps in, bring water and wear comfy footwear. There are several lookouts here to be amazed at the landscape from a height and listen to the blissful waterfall sounds. You can choose which trail to take, East or West both not very strenuous however with several steps along the way, a stroller may be a little tricky. It is $4.00 entry per vehicle for the day with a gift shop also onsite.
AIR B&B:
TreeHouse Air Bnb (Click link to view the listing)
This was magnificent! I could not have picked a better little place to stay - The Treehouse Studio in the village - 2-minute drive from the main street or a 10-minute stroll to the shops. Click on the link to see the photos for yourself and read the reviews! Extras that I was pleasantly surprised about: Jacuzzi spa bath, electric blanket & some cute chocolates on arrival! Perfect romantic getaway
ALONG THE WAY:
Bowral – On the way down we stopped off at Mt. Gibraltar lookout one of many lookouts I the area for some fascinating views along platforms. Be prepared in Winter it is so windy & cold – wrap up! In the little town we popped into “Raw & Wild” organic market/café, the food was delicious good service and you can spend some time browsing indoors. We also visited Corbett Gardens which unfortunately during this time of year didn’t have too many flowers or water flowing through the little streams – this would be better during Spring/Summer.
Seven Mile Beach – Shoalhaven - (30 drive from Kangaroo Valley) Such a gorgeous beach, relaxed vibe, wide-open space plenty of parking, and as the name suggests… it literally goes for miles!
Royal National Park – Wedding Cake Rock. Give yourself plenty of time, make sure you go to the correct entry of the HUGE national park. We paid $12 entry fee to get in & you can explore many areas. Disclosure: Wedding Cake Rock is all fenced off and you will be fined if you hop the barriers for your ‘insta shot’ – it is super dangerous! For the coastal track allow a 1-hour walk there, and a 1-hour walk return - and of course time for taking amazing shots en route. Depending on the time of the year, you may be lucky enough to spot some Whales migrating in the distance!
OTHER SUGGESTIONS:
While you are on the South Coast / Southern Highlands, other places to visit: Berry, Jervis Bay, Wineries - and lots of them!
P.S The local businesses are so grateful for the visitors they get - super friendly and welcoming particularly after a tough bush-fire season, show them support!