Inland Touring in Shoalhaven
On scenic drives in the beautiful Shoalhaven hinterland discover charming towns with antique stores, delicious places to eat and enticing markets. There are wineries with cellar doors, and you can visit the heritage-listed home of a great Australian artist and explore the enchanting Kangaroo Valley.
Begin your touring in Berry, a delightful town with heritage buildings and pretty surrounds. Near the southern end of the spectacular Grand Pacific Drive touring route, you’ll find a tempting range of experiences, including acclaimed restaurants, antiques and homewares, as well as gourmet treats.
A popular stop for a bite to eat when touring is the Famous Berry Donut Van, a scrumptious institution on Queen Street. For bargain-priced antiques, handmade goods, garden plants and bush honey, the Berry Country Fair is held on the first Sunday of the month at Berry Showground.
From Berry, enjoy a winding drive through escarpment rainforest to Kangaroo Valley. The drive is about 25 minutes. You’ll discover one of Australia’s most beautiful valleys. There are luxury spa retreats, campgrounds and outdoor adventures, such as kayaking on the tranquil Kangaroo River.
Dating back to 1870, the main street retains a country charm that extends to its tea rooms and the Friendly Inn Hotel, a pub. The famous Kangaroo Valley Pie Shop is in a heritage shop. Try old-fashioned sweets, gourmet ice creams and locally made goodies at the Kangaroo Valley Fudge House. Then explore the region from the saddle with Kangaroo Valley Horse Riding.
The scenic drive from Kangaroo Valley to Nowra is about 30 minutes. On the banks of the pretty Shoalhaven River, Nowra is the Shoalhaven’s major town. Up the river is Bundanon, the home of the great artist Arthur Boyd who donated it to the public. You can visit his home and studio on Sundays.
The river estuary is part of Australia’s Oyster Coast. Buy plump oysters fresh from the water at Jim Wild’s Oysters in Greenwell Point or order a dozen at the acclaimed Wharf Rd restaurant and bar in Nowra . Pick up wine, craft beer and specialty cheese from the award-winning Cupitt’s Winery, tucked in the rolling hills behind Milton .
About 45 minutes’ drive south of Nowra, Milton is a lovely historic town that will delight antique hunters and your tastebuds. Follow the Milton Historical Walk to see the town’s most significant buildings. The food and wine experiences suit a range of tastes and budgets, from award-winning restaurants to a winery, microbrewery, cafes and markets.
