Sydney - Kangaroo Valley Weekend Roadie

Just on the outskirts of Sydney, Royal National Park is really a destination in itself, but that’s a whole other story. For this trip, it’s more about passing through and enjoying the typically Aussie landscape, but if you feel like time is on your side, do go for one of the many bush walks that traverse the park, or take a detour out to the spectacular coastline (Wattamolla is one particular gem). Turn off at Loftus to the scenic route through Australia’s oldest national park to get the most out of your roadie, rather than taking the usual drive along the Princes Highway. You might just get some ideas for your next weekender.

Just a few minutes past the Sea Cliff Bridge, stop for a bite to eat at Grand Pacific Drive prerequisite, The Scarborough Hotel. Built in 1886 (but don’t worry, it has been renovated since then), this coastal restaurant has become somewhat of an institution over the years, and we’ve got a sneaking suspicion it’s because of the view from its garden dining area. Did someone say as far as the eye can see? Perched right on the clifftop, call in advance to book a garden table so nothing will stand between your tantalising meal and the horizon. You can’t get much better than that.

After travelling around Australia for a year, The Famous Berry Donut Van pulled up in Berry and never left. It’s not hard to see why once you get there, as its beautiful heritage buildings and friendly country town vibes make Berry a popular day trip for Sydneysiders looking for a bit of peace and quiet. The Donut Van is the pearl in Berry’s crown, creating delicious little morsels of cinnamon-y dough freshly each day. And having done so for 55 years, you’d best believe they are the best donuts in New South Wales, maybe even Australia itself.

Could there be any better way to discover the story of Kangaroo Valley than by jumping straight into a heritage walk when you arrive? With a long history of Aboriginal culture and settler influence, Kangaroo Valley doesn’t just have incredible nature and wildlife, but offers a wealth of opportunities to learn about an historic pioneering community. It’s always more interesting knowing the stories behind a place, so, rather than going in blind, soak up all the information in the self-guided tour and your visit will be a lot richer because of it. Even the Hampden Bridge has so much more to it than just its impressive architecture… Find the information brochure on the Kangaroo Valley website and discover it all.

To relieve the afternoon’s hunger (and quench its thirst), sidle into The Friendly Inn Hotel for a dinner with a decent sized helping of heart and soul. One of the oldest pubs in the region, you can find anything you’re craving here, from seafood and burgers to steak and salads. We’re partial to cracking open a cold beverage in their garden and enjoying the view of the endlessly beautiful Kangaroo Valley. You may want to stay a bit later and share some rounds with the travellers and locals who frequent the pub; how could you go wrong with a place that has ‘friendly’ in its name?

When it comes to accommodation, Kangaroo Valley options are endless and all something a bit special. From idyllic farm stays to historic cottages to all-you-could-ask-for bed and breakfasts, all that’s missing are high-rise corporate hotels and motels… And we’re not sure we’re complaining. For a bit of everything, Holiday Haven Kangaroo Valley is right in the centre of the township, offering convenient and affordable accommodation options, from non-powered and powered campsites all the way through to six-person cabins. Take your pick and sleep in comfort, the next day’s adventures await.

Welcome the morning in Kangaroo Valley with a coffee that might make you consider moving to the countryside. The General Cafe brings all sorts of city vibes to rural Australia, catering for anyone’s dietary requirements with their unpretentiously scrumptious menu. Soak up the friendly atmosphere whilst enjoying your breakfast out on their lush veranda, or browse their stocks of handmade deliciousness, including dukkah, sauerkraut, sourdough and much more. Opt for the Chef’s Special Breakfast to get your taste of the freshest ideas the kitchen can offer, with a bottle of their homemade kombucha to fizz up your morning.

By the time you hit Wollongong, there may be a reasonable rumble in your tummy, so head to Humber, where you can reserve a spot for a weekend lunch on Wollongong’s only rooftop bar. Affordable, kid-friendly and housed in a funky refurbished Hillman Humber dealership building, Humber is the place to go if you’re looking for that sweet spot between the relaxed happiness of a long lunch and the electric energy of a cocktail bar. Find your perch on the edge of the rooftop so you can enjoy whatever deliciousness you order with the backdrop of Wollongong smiling at you. Need we mention the Smoked Salmon Salad Bowl?