Archive for the Category »South Coast «

The NSW Coastal Garden of Eden
Monday, July 18th, 2011 /

If somebody told you there was a Garden of Eden on a Sapphire Coast, you would probably either think they were crazy or would ask them how to get there? Hopefully, you would do the latter, because there really is an Eden and it’s on the Sapphire Coast of southern New South Wales. For generations, Eden has been one of the favourite destinations of South Coast holiday makers and for good reason: Eden is simply idyllic.

Eden is the last town before you reach Victoria on the beautiful coastal Pacific Highway. Going in the other direction, it is (obviously!) the first town you reach after crossing the border from Victoria to NSW. It attracts visitors from both of Australia’s largest cities. If you look at a satellite view of Eden, it’s easy to see what the attraction is. For one thing, it is surrounded by National Forest. Most of the Sapphire Coast has that feature in common. What else is special about Eden?

Zoom in on the satellite photo and you will see that Eden is tucked away on the northern edge of Twofold Bay. It’s sheltered location there makes it an ideal place for a holiday. The rugged coast of the Tasman Sea in far south New South Wales can be unsafe for swimming, but when you’re snuggled away in Eden, you are protected from the open sea swells and wind.

In ancient times, Eden was the home of the Thawa indigenous tribe. European settlers didn’t arrive until the early 19th century, when Twofold Bay was discovered and used as a whaling station. This continued for over a century, until the 1930s. Not long before the whaling industry declined, a pod of killer whales came to Twofold Bay and shared it with the whalers. Together, they would herd big whales into the bay.

Today, whales are still a big attraction in Eden, but it is not for the same reasons as it was in the past. Whale watching tours are very popular and the fascinating Killer Whale Museum is one of the town’s feature attractions. Inside the museum, you can get a real taste of what the whalers’ lives were really like. Fishing is still one of the leading industries in town, but today it is the rich stocks of tuna that are sought by fishermen.

Whale watching tours

Eden’s natural beauty and serene atmosphere has attracted artists from all over Australia. Their works are on display in the Eden Community Gallery, "Art on Imlay." A visit to the gallery is a great way for visitors to get an understanding of why Eden locals love their community so much. It is like a serene paradise for those who like to stay close to nature.

Eden’s entire population is only about 3000, but it is a relatively large town compared to others in the vicinity. While you’re there, take the time to visit the some of the inland villages. Nimmitabel, for example rests at an altitude of around 2500 feet above sea level and is located between Eden and the Snowy Mountains. This tiny village’s population numbers only 300 and has a magical and even mystical feel about it.

You won’t find a flashy Eden accommodation, but what you will find is a cosy and hospitable place to stay. You will instantly fall into the relaxed atmosphere of this beautiful "Garden of Eden" and after a few days, will find it hard to tear yourself away from it. That’s okay, though. You’re welcome to stay in Eden for as long as you like.

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The magical Kangaroo Valley
Friday, March 04th, 2011 /

Kangaroo Valley is a magical area located less than 100 miles (160km) from Sydney. The village of Kangaroo Valley, with a population of just 360, is a National Trust listed village and the valley itself is often cited as "the most beautiful valley in all of Australia." Many people who have visited the region argue that this is an understatement, believing it to be one of the most beautiful valleys in the world. The only way to judge for yourself is to book into a unique Kangaroo Valley accommodation and experience it firsthand.

Kangaroo Valley

Whether you approach Kangaroo Valley from Canberra or Sydney, the drive takes only 2 hours and much of that is through beautiful rolling hills. It can truly be said of this valley that "getting there is half the fun" and often travellers find that the drive takes much longer because they make so many stops along the way. Once you get there, you are treated with a taste of old Australia before you even enter the town when you cross the historical Hampden Bridge, a beautiful sandstone bridge built in 1898. This suspension bridge is the oldest surviving bridge of its kind in Australia.

Hampden Bridge

Kangaroo Valley’s beauty has been appreciated ever since the first settlers discovered it in the 19th century. Unlike other areas which were exploited for their natural resources, it was the rich, fertile soil of Kangaroo Valley that attracted the early settlers. Surveyor/explorer George Evans, who made the first European discovery of the valley in 1812 commented that "no painter could beautify" the landscape he viewed from atop Mt Tapatallee. It was perfect as it was. The aborigines, who lived in and around the valley for over 20,000 years, hold it in the highest esteem, viewing it as an important spiritual and healing centre.

Although they are few in number, Kangaroo Valley arguably has more creative and artistic local residents per capita than anyplace else in Australia. Their artistic and environmental sensitivities make the village one of the most beautiful in the country. It seems to fit in perfectly with the landscape and although small, visitors can spend days exploring the galleries, gift shops and restaurants within the village itself. One popular spot on "the other side of the bridge" is the Old Barrengarry Store, which enjoys legendary status for its range of sweet and savoury pies. In the village itself, be prepared for a treat as you explore the antique shops, the galleries and the boutiques before settling down to a gourmet meal.

Of course, you won’t want to stay indoors too much when you’re in Kangaroo Valley. The scenery is simply too spectacular. Bush walking is as popular today as it was with the aborigines 20,000 years ago. Remarkably, you can literally follow in their footsteps, because many of their trails remain. There is an abundance of wildlife in the valley and on the surrounding slopes. The locals only ask that you tread lightly and treat their unspoiled paradise with the respect it deserves. You won’t need to be reminded, though. There’s something about Kangaroo Valley that makes you want it to remain exactly as it is forever.

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Unforgettable Kiama less than two hours from the heart of Sydney
Wednesday, February 16th, 2011 /

Less than two hours by car from the heart of Sydney is the popular tourist resort town of Kiama. Often referred to as the "Gateway to the South Coast," many visitors to the region choose a Kiama accommodation as their "base of operations." From here, all the sights and attractions of the South Coast are easily accessible and the hospitality of the locals is legendary.

Kiama Lighthouse

Kiama is the perfect place to stay for an extended South Coast holiday because it is both big enough to have all the amenities you need yet small enough to feel like you’ve really gotten away from the city. In this town of 20,000 residents, you won’t have to go without any of the luxuries you’re used to, yet you can find a quiet beach or walking trail almost within walking distance of the main part of town. If you’re interested in Australian history, there’s plenty of that in Kiama, too – and it’s all within easy reach.

Kiama Terrace is a good example of how Kiama mixes history with the modern world. Originally built in the late 19th century as housing for quarry workers, this row of weatherboard cottages has been fully restored and now houses souvenir shops, crafts galleries, cafes and other fascinating shops in a lovely, tree-shaded setting.

Kiama Blowhole

Kiama is proud of its heritage and puts it on display at the Pilot’s Cottage Museum, on Blowhole Point. The "Blowhole" after which Blowhole Point is named, is Kiama’s oldest and most internationally famous landmark. It was first recorded in 1793 by George Bass, who saw it in action from the deck of his whaling boat. When an incoming tide combines with a fair-sized swell, water rushes into an underground cave. The surge of water compresses the air inside the cave and forces a huge plume of water and air skyward from the only available opening. There are other blowholes around the world, but the Kiama Blowhole is the largest and most spectacular.

If you can, try to arrange your visit to Kiama around the 3rd Sunday of any month. This is when the monthly Kiama Seaside Market is held in a park just above Black Beach, in the centre of Kiama. Local artists and artisans come to the Market every month to display their wares and other stallholders sell antiques, odds and ends and even delicious homemade preserves, baked goods and other treats. The Kiama Seaside Market is now so well known that many families make it a point to come to Kiama once a month just to spend a day wandering through the stalls and enjoying the atmosphere.

While Kiama may be the Gateway to the South Coast, many visitors never pass through the "gates" once they reach Kiama. It’s easy to find more than enough attractions within the city itself to keep you occupied for a long weekend. When you’re not shopping or dining out, you can explore the beaches or take a leisurely bike ride or walk on one of the many tracks and trails within and around the city. In order to appreciate it all, you simply have to go there and experience it yourself!

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Wollongong & Grand Pacific Drive
Saturday, November 20th, 2010 /

Wollongong is NSW 3rd largest City and only 1 hour south of Sydney CBD and international airport and only 3 hours drive north east of the nations capital Canberra. Located in a narrow coastal strip Wollongong is home to over 200,000 residents, beautiful landscapes and one of Australia’s finest universities the University of Wollongong.

Wollongong is located 80 kilometres south of Sydney on a narrow coastal strip bordered by the Royal National Park to the north, Lake Illawarra to the south, the Tasman Sea to the east and the Illawarra Escarpment to the west.  Wollongong enjoys a magnificent natural environment from rainforests to spectacular sea cliffs and unspoilt beaches.

If you are a visitor, you want to know that you have the most upto date information and where better to get it from than Wollongong’s official tourism Website.  Giving you everything you need to know about accommodation, restaurants, recreation activities  and other features of our city. Visitors and residents alike can enjoy Wollongong’s great shopping facilities and the many recreational activities on offer, from our 17 patrolled beaches, parks and cycleways to cultural experiences such as the Nan Tien Temple and Wollongong Science Centre.

Grand Pacific Drive encompasses 140km of some of NSW most spectacular scenery and coastline. From the Royal National Park (world’s second oldest) to Wollongong and beyond, the route takes you through coastal rainforests, spectacular driving scenery, coastal villages, the bustling coastal city of Wollongong, and beautiful coastal towns of Shellharbour and Kiama. The drive ends in the spectacular Shoalhaven region and from here you can experience the Southern Highlands, greater South Coast and Canberra!

Once you get to Wollongong you won’t know where to start with all the attractions available to you!

Whether you are here on a short break or an extended visit there certainly won’t be a shortage of thing to do:

  • The Royal National Park is the second oldest national park in the world, it begins and is apart of our scenic Grand Pacific Drive. 
  • After some high impact adventure and fun why not try hang gliding or sky diving with Skydive the Beach, perhaps even spend the day at Jamberoo Action Park NSW largest water theme park.
  • Wollongong is gaining an international reputation for its excellence in the arts and cultural activities. Home to the biggest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, The Nan Tien Temple. This is a must see in the Illawarra. Along with other activities such as our Illawarra Museum, City Art Gallery or come in time for one of our many festivals.
  • Bald Hill Lookout will give you outstanding views of the Illawarra and its escarpment, spend some time exploring the atmosphere before heading down the cliff hugging roads hanging above the ocean. See for yourself how the mountains meet the sea. 
  • The benefits of Wollongong’s cultural mix are reflected in the excellent collection of restaurants and cafés, all offering a high standard of service and cuisine. First class seafood at Lagoon Seafood Restaurant & Harbourfront Restaurant. For specialty cafe’s visit Diggies North Kiosk, Levendi or Austi Beach Cafe. Coming with the family? Dine at Bomborra Seafood, Oscars at Towradgi Beach Hotel, Hogs Breath Cafe or Outback Steakhouse.
  • The Wollongong coastline offers 17 sparkling surf beaches that are patrolled by lifesavers from September to April. All beaches are in easy walking distance from shops, hotels and clubs. Enjoy over 60 kilometres of easy bicycle/walkway as you make your way from Bulli Beach in the north to Lake Illawarra in the south.

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Take a few days off in Mollymook on the NSW South Coast
Wednesday, July 21st, 2010 /

Mollymook Beach Pirates, aborigines and white settlers all found Mollymook idyllic in nature. Blessed with a treasure trove of temperate weather, mysterious caves and gleaming beaches, this little town located along the New South Wales coast is just waiting to be discovered by the individual or family looking for fun and adventure in a hedonistic setting.

Those afraid that such a place will be hidden too far off the beaten path will be pleased to discover that this bit of paradise is actually quite handily located almost equidistant from Sydney and Canberra a short and scenic three hour road trip. It is in the perfect spot to serve as a short get a way or as a longer family vacation.

While its is based around tourism retail and the lodging income, it creates no problem as anything one might need is available only five short minutes away in Ulladulla.

The beaches of Mollymook have already been discovered by those connoisseurs of great water, surfers. Each year sponsored festivals, contests and surfing competitions draw surfers from all over to take part. These clean and safe beaches also draw swimmers of all kinds as well as those less inclined to leave their comfy beach lounges preferring to enjoy to view and the sun.

They take care of their visitors with a plethora of Mollymook beach accommodation that take in preferences from luxurious, with 5 star hotels, to those who prefer to ‘rough it’ in the modern campgrounds available in the area. They haven’t forgotten the gustatory pleasures of a vacation either, providing familiar fast food, hearty buffets and even opulent dining experiences for those looking for an elegant night after an adventurous day.

The town enjoys the ease of such amazing neighbors as Morton National Park, known for its breathtaking waterfalls and striking foliage and Pigeon House Mountain and Murramarang. These parks offer adventure, discovery and an unmatched opportunity to experience the land as it once was. Both parks offer bushwalking with choices for those who need an easier trail and for those who want a chance to explore caves, coal mines and climbing the cliffs.

It was Captain Cook who stepped onto the shores here in 1770 where he discovered the area already inhabited by Aborigines and reported that the natives "appeared to be of a black or very dark colour". Later the local caves and artifacts that have been discovered proved that, indeed, it had been called home by a number of diverse Aboriginal groups before the white settlers arrived in 1859. The name itself seems to have come from a local species of albatross called the ‘mollymawk’. There was also a community house built by these settlers known as the "Molly Moke", all of which could be differing spellings that have wound up today as "Mollymook".

This is a ‘don’t miss’ destination for everyone of any age. The beautiful drive alone, a ribbon of clear road stretching between breathtaking cliffs and sparkling water calls you to a different place, a different time, a different adventure. Next time you plan your family vacation, take a look at Mollymook.

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Milton is a great place for a long weekend or a short vacation
Wednesday, July 14th, 2010 /

South of Sydney on the eastern coast of Australia, lucky tourists will have discovered a small rural town steeped in agricultural tradition. Milton is small but has begun to spill over into towns like Ulladulla and Mollymook. Still it retains individuality including its own festivals and attractions.

Visitors and locals alike look forward to events which celebrate the agricultural background of Milton. Their March Agricultural and Horticultural Show looks a lot like a county fair, with a dog show and displays of livestock like sheep and cattle. Live music, a rodeo and rides provide plenty of enjoyment for the whole family. The Settlers Fair also honours a colourful past. Witness historic displays, sheep shearing, even some magic. Listen to story telling, watch street theatre, or take a history walk. You might find souvenirs to bring home too. The Scarecrow Festival offers similar opportunities, though this time the community comes together to celebrate harvest season.

Arrive at just the right time and take a look at a monthly village market. Find unique items for yourself or to give as gifts such as jewelry, crafts and clothing. Visitors will also have the chance to purchase produce at the market to nibble while exploring or to take back to their accommodation for later meals. Many craft shops line the streets here along with galleries that show off the skills of talented citizens. Some work with paints, others with pottery. View their displays and purchase their unique pieces.

For skill of a different kind, head to a vineyard. Cupitts Winery invites tourists to the cellar door for a taste of their varieties along with bottles for sale. Tourists can always just come and enjoy beautiful scenery from this location. They also serve food so arrive in time for lunch or supper. Visit the town for a south coast wine event featuring public tasting of products from numerous wine makers representing the region. Maybe sip a winner.

GZone Flower Farm always has something flowering. Witness the evidence of their environmental commitment including an intensive recycling policy. Here you can also explore a gift shop for more novelties and food.

If you love to get outside and keep moving, your location could not be better. In Morton National Park take a bush walk or climb Pigeon House Mountain. Lake Conjola provides a lovely location for swimming, water skiing, fishing or sailing. Should you prefer to watch rather than play, just dip your toes in the water and relax.

Many options exist for Milton accommodation. Set yourself up with self-catering or look to a bed and breakfast for shared facilities and personal treatment. Hire a room at an art studio. Opt for a camp site, motel, or restored heritage home. Whatever your choice, historic Milton rests only minutes away.

Take a walk through Milton yourself to admire historic buildings throughout. The National Trust has listed the town thanks to many preserved examples of early nineteenth century architecture, including several churches. Another option is to join a walking tour and learn more about Milton hauntings.

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Mollymook a quaint little seaside town.
Wednesday, January 06th, 2010 /

Founded in the 1850’s, Mollymook is a quaint little seaside town. With a beach perfect for swimming and surfers, your whole family can find water activities to keep themselves busy. For serious surfing, Bannisters Point and Narrawallee Beach are only a short drive to the north.

Mollybook Beach - flickr.com

Mollybook Beach: joc.id.au - flickr.com

Mollymook is famous for the “Bogey Hole”, a huge rock pool on the Headland. As a tidal pool, this is a great spot for young children to learn to swim, with safe snorkeling. There are also ample areas for picnicking.

From the headland, head to the southern end of Mollymook Beach. Collers beach is also quite accessible by foot. Both have carparks, however, if you’re traveling by private vehicle.

The Surf Club is at the center of the most popular beaches. This is also the area with the safest swimming. If you’re looking for a great surf break, the southern reef has it in droves (when it’s working). There are beach breaks for those times when its not.

There’s accommodation available in a number of different establishments, including caravan parks, bed and breakfasts, and motels. For a quiet vacation spent enjoying the sun, sand, and surf, Mollymook is a great place to take your family.

To find some great Mollymook accommodation, visit our accommodation website.

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Jervis Bay one of the true gems of the New South Wales South Coast
Sunday, January 03rd, 2010 /

For years, New South Wales’ south-east region has been known both locally and internationally as one of the most spectacular places in Australia.  Amazingly, Jervis Bay only recently received much deserved recognition in being named a National Park.

The Waterboy - flickr.com

The Waterboy - flickr.com

The clearest blue water and the whitest sand in the world can both be found at Jervis Bay. Watch as dolphins glide through the water. Dolphins aren’t the only creatures that call these waters home. Whales are often seen along the Bay. Humans enjoy the tranquil surroundings as well: fishing, diving, and other water sports are all popular ways to explore the area.

The Botanic Gardens and Booderee National Park are nearby and won’t disappoint.  Beautiful locations in the National Park include the Hole in the Wall, Bristol Point, Scottish Rocks, and Green Patch Beach.  From the National Parks Visitor one can find more information about boat ramps, bushwalking trails, picnic and barbecue equipment and camping areas.  Another interesting site of the area is the old, demolished lighthouse just south of Jervis Bay.

The most spectacular point in the area is probably Greenpatch Beach.  The views from this spot offer an interesting contrast, with the HMAS Creswell set amidst the immaculate natural bush and vast ocean.  The already magnificent colors of Jervis Beach are intensified by the sun’s reflection, giving the ocean its clear blue color and the coast its brilliant white sand.

If Jervis Bay sounds like your kind of destination then visit our website to find some great Jervis Bay Accommodation.

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