Cobargo

Shop up a storm

The Princes Highway, which links Sydney with the Sapphire Coast before crossing into Victoria and then South Australia, runs right through Cobargo and doubles as the main street. There are a host of places showcasing the work of local artisans including the Cobargo Creators Gallery, which has a great selection of art and beautifully crafted handmade works and is run by a not-for-profit community group.

At The Lazy Lizard Gallery, a vibrant artist-run space, look for the Himalayan salt lamp-trees, paintings and stunning timber pieces. At Twig and Feather you’ll find an inspiring selection of homewares and gifts. Just out of town on Bermagui Road is Bandicoot Pottery, who lost their studio in the fires but rebuilt and reopened in 2020. For vintage clothing, visit Little Birdie Vintage, who love to rescue, salvage and restore.

Tree-lined main street, Cobargo - Credit: David Rogers Photography

Eat & drink

Pick up a pie or some fresh bread from The Highway Bakery, enjoy a fantastic breakfast or brunch at The Junction, grab a coffee at the Valiant Coffee truck, and stop in at the Cobargo Hotel for a drink or a pub meal.

Valiant Coffee, Cobargo - Credit: David Rogers - SCDM

Things to do

Near Cobargo, head to the beaches of the Sapphire Coast at Bermagui, Narooma or in the Mimosa Rocks National Park. The rugged wilderness of Wadbilliga National Park is perfect for bushwalking, camping and mountain biking. Cobargo also has two major annual events, the Cobargo Folk Festival and the Cobargo Show, both in February.

Cobargo Folk Festival, Cobargo - Credit: Sabine Friedrich - Yuin Folk Club Inc

Getting there 

From Sydney, the drive to Cobargo takes about 5.5 hours, while the drive from Canberra is three hours. You can fly from Sydney or Melbourne to Merimbula Airport, which is less than an hour from Cobargo.