Planning a Sydney to Canberra road trip? Great choice! But which way will you go?
There are two ways to drive from Sydney to Canberra – via the South Coast or via the Southern Highlands. Our favourite is via the South Coast.
There is so much more to see and do travelling the coastal route before heading inland to Braidwood and then onto Canberra. Let our Sydney Canberra road trip guide you on your Australian road trip. This could easily be a 5-day south coast road trip or even longer, it all depends on how much time you have.
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Sydney To Canberra Road Trip Itinerary
This route will take you from Sydney to:
- Wollongong
- Jamberoo (side trip)
- Kiama
- Gerringong
- Gerroa
- Berry
- Kangaroo Valley (side trip)
- Nowra
- Jervis Bay
- Nerriga
- Braidwood
- Bungendore
- Queanbeyan
- Canberra
If you are short of time you can bypass some of these towns, or if you have plenty of time we would recommend including all of them. Each town offers the visitor something different to experience.
If you are looking for accommodation in Canberra on arrival - check out 5 of the best accommodation in Canberra hereFrequently Asked Questions Sydney Canberra Drive Journey
How long does it take from Sydney to Canberra by car in one day?
To drive direct from Sydney down the M1/M5/M23 is approximately 3.30 hours depending on traffic leaving Sydney. This is the inland route and it is shorter than going via the South Coast of NSW.
Driving from Sydney to Canberra via the South Coast route to Nowra then inland to Nerriga and Braidwood is 355 km and takes on average 5 hours.
Where do you stop off driving from Sydney to Canberra in one day?
If you are taking the coastal route you can stop in Wollongong for breakfast, Kiama for morning tea, Jervis Bay for lunch, Bungendore for afternoon tea and dinner in Canberra.
If you are driving through the Southern Highlands we would recommend Bowral for breakfast, Yass for lunch and Canberra for dinner. This is the shortest route.
Are there wineries along the way from Sydney to Canberra?
The Southern Highlands have many wineries in and around Bowral.
If you take the Shoalhaven route there are wineries around Berry and Kiama.
Sydney to Sublime Point Lookout
Travel distance from Sydney to Sublime Point – 66.3 km with an average driving time of 1 hour 15 minutes.
Sublime Point Lookout is only an hour 15 minutes drive from Sydney. You are greeted with 270-degree breathtaking views from Southern Sydney to Kiama.
If you are an experienced hiker you may enjoy the Sublime Point Track which takes around 45 minutes to complete.
Sublime Point Café is open from:
Wednesday to Friday – 9 am to 3.30 pm
Saturday to Sunday – 8 am to 4.30 pm
For the latest photos and reviews on the Sublime Point Cafe click here
Where to Stop With Kids From Sydney to Wollongong
Symbio Wildlife Park is a great stop for the family. Why not pack a picnic too!
Wollongong
Travel distance from Sublime Point to Wollongong is 26.5 km with an average driving time of 20 minutes.
Top Things to Do in Wollongong
Wollongong is an aboriginal name meaning between the mountain and the sea. It is NSW’s 3rd largest city, after Sydney and Newcastle, and famous for its beaches, art galleries, eating establishments and outdoor activities. There is so much to do in Wollongong.
Wollongong Botanical Gardens
Address: Murphy’s Avenue Keiraville
Opening Hours: 7 am – 5 pm daily
Closed: Good Friday and Christmas Day
Entry: Free
Visit the 10 garden collections that include:
- The Rainforest Collection
- The Dryland Gardens
- The Palm Gardens and more
One of the highlights is the Towri Bush Tucker Garden which is named after the traditional custodians of this land. Learn how they use the plants for food and medicine.
On your visit, you may also get to see some of the locals such as Eastern Water Dragons, Echidnas, Kookaburras and more.
For the latest travellers’ photos and reviews click here.
North Wollongong Beach
Head to North Wollongong Beach for a family picnic, a bbq, rock pools, a wading area and surfing. North Wollongong Beach is patrolled every day of the year. There are also shops and cafes in the vicinity.
Parking: free
Address: Cliff Road, North Wollongong
Wollongong City Beach
Wollongong City Beach is 3.1 km long running from Flagstaff Point to the Port Kembla seawall.
Parking: Free at the base of Flagstaff Hill and along the foreshore reserve
Address: 1 Marine Drive Wollongong
Wollongong Science Centre & Planetarium
The largest Planetarium in New South Wales and the Science Centre covers everything from dinosaurs to electronics and is perfect fun for little kids and big kids!
Address: Innovation Campus, Wollongong Science Centre, 60 Squires Way, North Wollongong
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 9 am – 5 pm
Friday to Saturday 10 am – 4 pm
Sunday 9 am – 5 pm
Closed New Year’s Day, Australia Day, Easter Sunday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day
For the latest travellers reviews and photos click here.
Where to Stay in Wollongong
Our favourite hotel in Wollongong is the newly opened Hotel TOTTO located at 60 Market Street in the CBD. A short distance from Central Mall and a ten-minute walk to the beaches of Wollongong.
There are 150 rooms made up of King, Queen, Twin and accessible rooms with 100 on-site car parking spaces. A funky vibe greets the guests as they arrive, you have the option of self-check-in and self-check-out.
You must dine at their Italian Restaurant – Basta Trattoria. The best Italian in Wollongong. Bookings are required as the locals love it too!
To check availability and to make a booking at Hotel TOTTO click here
4.5 Star – Novotel Wollongong North Beach
Address: 2-14 Cliff Road opposite North Wollongong Beach
Perfect for families and couples the Novotel offers a swimming pool, fitness centre, day, spa, restaurant, 2 bars and family rooms.
For the latest reviews and travellers photos click here
4.5 Star – Sage Hotel Wollongong
Address: 60-62 Harbour Street Wollongong
Perfect for all types of stays the Sage Hotel offers an outdoor heated pool, a children’s activities room, a fitness centre, two restaurants The Coldwater Creek Restaurant and Bar and the Five Islands Room & Terrace Restaurant.
For the latest reviews and travellers photos click here
Top Places to Eat in Wollongong
Diggies at 1 Cliff Road North Wollongong. A casual café with an innovative seasonal menu. Try their local fish and chips.
Pepe’s on the Beach at 14 Cliff Road North Wollongong. Alfresco dining with a Californian inspired menu. Pepe’s on the beach is one of our favourite restaurants in North Wollongong and one of our favourite dishes is the seafood platter.
Harbourfront Seafood Restaurant at Endeavour Drive North Wollongong. Local fresh seafood with beautiful views over Wollongong Harbour.
For the latest Harbourfront Seafood Restaurant photos and reviews click here
Side Trip to Jamberoo
The travel distance from Wollongong to Jamberoo is 32.7km with an average driving time of 35 minutes.
Things to do in Jamberoo
The aboriginal word Jamberoo means ‘track’. Jamberoo is famous for its rainforest and waterfalls at Minnamurra. Jamberoo is a historical dairy town in a rich lush dairy farming area on the South Coast.
Visit the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre and Minnamurra Falls
The Minnamurra Rainforest Centre is located in the Budderoo National Park. You can walk timber boardwalks through the rainforest to Minnamurra Falls. Walk amongst the lyrebirds and wallabies and enjoy picnics and BBQs. There is a café available.
Address: 345 Minnamurra Falls Road off Jamberoo Mountain Road
Opening Hours: Daily 9 am-5 pm Christmas Day closed
For more travellers photos and reviews of the Minnamurra Rainforest click here.
Illawarra Fly
A treetop canopy walk, one of 4 steel canopy walks in Australia. It is 500m long with an average height of 25 metres. On a clear day, you will be able to see the coastline 35 km away.
Address: 182 Knights Hill Road, 16km from Jamberoo via the Jamberoo Mountain Road
Opening Hours: Daily 9 am-5 pm
Check availability hereWhere to stay in Jamberoo
Jamberoo Pub
The Jamberoo Pub has two types of accommodation available. Traditional pub style accommodation with 9 rooms and shared bathrooms in the pub itself.
3.5-star Saleyard Motel behind the beer garden offers 9 self-contained rooms suitable for families and small groups of between 2 – 4 people.
Where to eat in Jamberoo
Jamberoo Pub
The Jamberoo Pub was built in 1857 and it is a firm favourite of locals and visitors to Jamberoo. It is open for lunch and dinner. You can dine in the dining room, outside on the terrace or amongst the memorabilia in the Johnny Warren Football Museum. Johnny Warren was a top well-known footballer and he was the Uncle of the current owners.
Address: 12 Allowrie Street Jamberoo
Jamberoo to Kiama
The travel distance from Jamberoo to Kiama is 9.9 km with an average driving time of 15 minutes.
Things to do in Kiama
Kiama is perfect for that weekend getaway or midweek staycation. Kiama offers gastronomic delights with trendy bars, restaurants and cafes offering a range of cuisines for all to enjoy. Head to Kiama for luxury accommodation and boutique shopping experiences.
Kiama Blowhole
Experience the Kiama Blowhole – as the loud noise escapes the sea surge pushes water in and the compressed air at the end forces spray up through the hole. The Blowhole works best when a southeast swell is running. It is the largest blowhole in the world.
Visit the Kiama Lighthouse
The Kiama Lighthouse was established in 1887, it is also called the Kiama Light. It is still an active lighthouse being powered by a 120v 1000 watt quartz halogen lamp.
Address: Blowhole Point Kiama, near the Kiama blowhole.
Old Fire Station Gallery
Whilst in Kiama visit the Old Fire Station Gallery originally built in 1915. Each week you will find a new exhibition by local artists. Why not say hi to Daisy the Cow who stands guarding the fire station, she is repainted regularly to reflect the current exhibition.
Kiama is Home to Heritage Buildings
Kiama was first settled in the 1820s and as you wander down the main street you cannot miss the grand old Post Office which was built in 1878, Kiama Court House and the Police Station built later in 1884.
Pilot Cottage House
The Pilot Cottage House was constructed in 1880 and the first pilot moved in with his family in 1881. The pilots’ duties included advising of storm warnings, weather reports, collection of fees and maintenance.
Address: Blowhole Point Road
Open: Friday to Monday
Kiama’s Terrace Houses
The Terrace Houses were originally built for the local quarry workers in 1886. They have now been classified as National Trust buildings and have been converted into house cafes, boutiques, eateries and clothes shops.
Address: Collins Street Kiama
Heritage Walks
Visit the Kiama Tourist Information Centre at Blowhole Point Road just off 6 Terralong Street for details on the heritage walks available.
Where to stay in Kiama
The Sebel Kiama is a 4.5-star resort located on Kiama Harbour. The hotel offers 80 rooms spread over 3 levels and they also have family rooms available, free parking, fitness centre and wifi. You can dine at the Yves Bar & Restaurant. The Blowhole is 0.8 km away.
For the latest reviews and travellers photos click here
Kiama Shores is located at 45-51 Collins Street. They offer spacious, well fitted and beautifully decorated rooms, some with a balcony or spa bath. The hotel also offers an outdoor salted swimming pool and free parking.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are enjoyed at the 3 Brothers Dining restaurant. Italian cuisine using fresh local produce is on offer.
For the latest travellers reviews and photos click here
Located at Blowhole Point and 750m from Kiama’s Surf Beach the Cabins are very popular. They offer 1, 2 and 3-bedroom cabins with balconies, some with spa baths, a fully equipped kitchen and free wifi.
For the latest travellers photos and reviews click here
Big 4 Easts Beach Holiday Park
Located right on the beach in Ocean Street in a 35-acre park the Easts Beach Holiday Park offers cottages, suites and villa accommodation. The Park also has an onsite café, 2 swimming pools, a playground and Sunny’s Aquaventure Waterpark.
Where to Eat in Kiama
Address: 106 Terralong Street Kiama
Otis Deli offers middle eastern cuisine with vegan and gluten-free options.
Opening hours: Wednesday to Friday 8 am – 3 pm.
Saturday and Sunday 8 am – 4 pm.
Customer review: “Had an amazing lunch on a quick detour via Kiama. Delicious!!! So good we bought takeaway for our dinner tonight which was even better if possible than lunch.
Decided that Otis is worth a detour no matter where you are headed. I must tell you EVERYTHING is gorgeous” – Gabrielle
For more reviews and photos click here
Address: 72 Manning Street Kiama
Fully licensed restaurant offering a la carte menu and a bar menu showing the South Coast’s produce.
Click here for the latest photos by visitors
Address: 532 Collins Street Kiama
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Hungry Monkey is licensed and some of their most popular dishes are the Hungry Monkey Breakfast and their burgers.
For the latest photos and reviews of the Hungry Monkey in Kiama click here
Kiama to Gerringong
The distance from Kiama to Gerringong is 10.2 km with an average driving time of 12 minutes.
Gerringong comes from the Aboriginal word meaning ‘a fearful place’. Originally a rural dairy village Gerringong has awakened from being a sleepy seaside village to a popular seaside resort town on the South Coast.
Things to do in Gerringong
Gerringong is not short of historical buildings:
- Heritage Museum at 10 Blackwood Street Open on Saturday and Sunday from 1300-1600
- 1856 the oldest building in Gerringong is the Boat Harbour Store at the corner of Fern & Jupiter Streets
- 1870 Methodist Church in Bridges Street
- 1874 Anglican Church 103 Fern Street
- 1882 St Marys of the Sea Church Fern Street
- 1883 Police Station at 89 Fern Street
- 1884 Gerringong Uniting Church in Fern Street
Whale Watching Platform
Between the months of May to July and September to November head to the Whale Watching Platform on Belinda Street to watch the migrating whales head North and then return south later in the year.
Surf Werri Beach
Werri Beach at Pacific Avenue is your classical Australian surf beach and also popular with families and for swimming.
Swim at the Ourie Rockpool
In Geering Street you can swim in the Ourie Rockpool.
Canoe and Fish at the Werri Lagoon
Head to the north end of Werri Beach for canoeing and fishing in the Werri Lagoon.
Gerringong Markets
On the 3rd Saturday of every month between 8 am – 2 pm the Rotary Markets are held in the Park on 108 Fern Street. Be sure to try the Gerringong Pious Pies.
Where to Stay in Gerringong
Address: 1 Fern Street Gerringong
Located 5 minutes from Werri Beach the Mercure Gerringong has 52 Standard and Superior rooms with balcony and spa suites to suit all types of travellers. Dine at the Bella Char Restaurant and Wine Bay, indulge in a spa treatment at Bella Spa, play a game of tennis or two on their tennis courts or just laze beside their 2 onsite pools.
For the latest travellers reviews and photos click here
Sundara Beach House – Luxury Accommodation
Sundara Beach House is located opposite Werri Beach. Sundara is the word for ‘beautiful’ in Sanskrit and you will understand why it is named Sundara once you see it.
Sundara offers 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, a saltwater pool, spa, air conditioning and 2 gas fires and more and is perfect for families, groups and friends.
Looking for a girl’s weekend away in Gerringong? Look no further than Sundara.
Willowvale Estate – Crooked River Vineyards
Address: 11 Willowvale Road Gerringong
Nestled in the Crooked River Vineyards is Willowvale Estate. The house offers accommodation for 4 couples/8 guests with a full-size kitchen with breathtaking views.
Address: 1A Bridges Road Gerringong
The Werri Beach Holiday Park offers standard, spa and deluxe spa cabins for travellers as well as powered and unpowered sites. The resort has a swimming pool and a children’s playground.
Dogs are allowed outside of NSW school holidays.
Where to Eat in Gerringong
Address: 98 Fern Street Gerringong
With breathtaking views over Werri Beach Hill Bar & Kitchen is open for lunch and dinner and offers modern Australian cuisine in a coastal atmosphere.
For the latest reviews and photos click here
Address: 115 Fern Street Gerringong
Open for breakfast and lunch the Perfect Break offers Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine with indoor and outdoor seating available.
For the latest reviews and photos for the Perfect Break Vegetarian Cafe click here
Address: 1 Noble Street Gerringong
Open for breakfast and lunch Sea Vista Café offers views over Werri Beach, modern Australian cuisine with vegan and gluten-free options available.
For the latest photos and reviews of the Sea Vista Cafe click here
Address: Unit 6 45 Rowlins Road Gerringong
Established in 2018 the family-owned Brewery offers beer and cider on tap.
Open from Wednesday to Sunday
Address: 11 Willowvale Road Gerringong
Established in 1998 the award-winning Crooked River Wines offers red and white wines with views over the mountain and the sea. It is also home to Uncle Joe’s Brew which offers a variety of craft beers brewed onsite.
The Cellar Door is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 1030 to 1600.
The Crooked River Restaurant offers Modern Australian cuisine inspired by locally grown produce with vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Gerroa
The distance from Gerringong to Gerroa is 4.4 km with an average driving time of 10 minutes.
Gerroa is a seaside town located on 7 Mile Beach. Back in the 60s, Gerroa was home to many retreats run by the Christian Brothers. Today Gerroa is popular for its beach and fishing.
Things to do in Gerroa
The Sand Track Walk from Gerroa to Shoalhaven Heads
You can walk the 13km from Gerroa to Shoalhaven Heads – it is an easy walk for all. Along the way, you will pass through forests, and rainforests, enjoy a swim and enjoy the fauna and flora.
Visit the Kingsford Smith Memorial Park
On the 11th of January 1933, Kingsford Smith flew the first commercial flight from Australia to New Zealand in the Southern Cross to New Plymouth after taking off from 7 Mile Beach. The flight commenced in Sydney that morning. The flight took 14 hours and 10 minutes in total.
There is a memorial in the park as well as a lookout over 7 Mile Beach.
Black Head Fossils & Rock Fishing
At the eastern end of Stafford Street is the best display of fossils in NSW that date back to 250-300 million years ago. You can still see the fossils. Note it is illegal to remove them.
Where to Stay in Gerroa
Address: 51 Burke Parade Gerroa
A 4 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom house 100m from the beach suitable for up to 13 guests, fully equipped with everything that you will need to enjoy your vacation. It is also pet-friendly.
Address: 107 Crooked River Road
The Discovery Park has a range of self-contained cabins, a swimming pool, a children’s playground and a surf school on site.
Where To Eat in Gerroa
Address: 19 Riverleigh Avenue Gerroa
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner The Blue Swimmer is popular with locals and visitors offering a menu of fresh seasonal local ingredients.
See more travellers photos and reviews here
Address: 68 Crooked River Road
Open for lunch and dinner the Gerroa Boat Fishermans Club offers diners a scrumptious menu with locally sourced products and stunning views over 7 Mile Beach. They offer a courtesy shuttle bus for patrons.
For more photos and reviews of the Gerroa Boat Fishermans Club click here
Gerroa to Berry
The distance from Gerroa to Berry is 12.5 km with an average driving time of 15 minutes.
Berry is located 144km south of Sydney which makes it a very easy destination to visit for your staycation. It is known as the ‘town of trees’. Early settlers planted dozens of elm, oak and beech trees. It has become a trendy weekend destination with award-winning restaurants, wineries and excellent homeware boutique shopping experiences.
Berry has its fair share of heritage buildings:
- 1873 – Timber Shop at 131 Queen Street
- 1884 E S & A Bank Building at 135 Queen Street. It is now a museum that is open on Sundays between 1100-1500 and in school holidays and on public holidays between 1100-1400
- 1885 – St Luke Church of England in Princess Street
- 1886 – Berry Post & Telegraph Office at 137 Prince Alfred Street
- 1889 – Commercial Bank of Sydney on the corner of Queen and Prince Alfred Streets
A Heritage Walk is available – you can download the route here
Things to do in Berry NSW
Berry is a foodie’s heaven!
Enjoy a Gelato
Chatting with the owner of South Coast Providores she recommended that we should try Il Locale Gelato which sources its products from the nearby Pines Dairy.
Shop for Antiques, Homewares, Arts and Crafts
Berry has many quaint antiques, homewares, arts and crafts shops. It could take you a whole day just to wander around the shops.
Berry Markets
Berry’s markets are very popular. We can recommend that you arrive early for parking.
Not only are there the country markets, Berry also has:
- wine and food festivals
- lifestyle workshops
- yoga workshops
- author talks
- cooking schools
- floral and interior design schools
- live music
For full information click here.
Visit Local Wineries
The Shoalhaven region is one of the up-and-coming wine regions in NSW.
Some of the local wineries to visit:
Coolangatta Estate Winery is located at 1335 Bolong Road Coolangatta.
You can dine in the restaurant which is open for lunch on Saturday between 12 pm and 2.30 pm and dinner on Saturday night from 6 pm.
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Vegetarian Grazing Board and Wine Paddle
There are Graze Boards and wine tasting available daily.
The Cellar Door is open 7 days from 10 am to 5 pm. Wine Tasting Experiences are available, bookings essential.
Two Figs Winery is located at 905 Bolong Road Berry.
Cellar Door open daily from 11 am – 5 pm bookings are essential for tastings.
For the latest photos click here
Silos Estate is located at B640 Princes Highway Berry.
The Cellar Door is open daily from 11 am to 5 pm. Closed Christmas Day.
Tasting Experiences are available, bookings are required.
For the latest photos click here
The Mountain Ridge Winery is located at 11 Coolangatta Road Coolangatta.
Opening hours:
Monday – Friday 9 am – 3 pm.
Saturday – Sunday 9 am – 5pm.
Mountain Ridge Restaurant is available daily for breakfast from 9 am and lunch from 11.30 am. Local produce is used in their Modern Australian cuisine menu.
Bookings required.
Where to stay in Berry
Address: 1335 Bolong Road Berry
Stay in convict-built cottages that offer family, double and suite rooms.
Enjoy the onsite restaurant, cellar door and outdoor pool with spectacular views over the winery.
For the latest reviews and photos from travellers of the Coolangatta Estate click here
Address: 260 Mt Hay Road Off Bong Bong Road Berry
5 deluxe king suites are available with a kitchenette and a shared 33m heated indoor pool set on 360 acres with magnificent views.
For the latest reviews and travellers photos of the Mt Hay Retreat click here
Address: 640 Princes Highway Berry
Spa Suites are available with fully equipped kitchens and a private balcony.
Sitting Room Suites available that are self-contained with kitchenette and private balcony.
All with views over the vineyard.
For the latest reviews and travellers photos click here for the Silos Estate
Address: 17 Prince Alfred Street Lot 2 Berry
Family rooms and suites available in the boutique Berry Inn. Stay in converted stables with contemporary modern décor.
For the latest reviews and travellers photos of the Berry Inn click here
Address: 72 – 76 Queen Street Berry
The Berry Village Boutique Motel is a 4-star 24 room boutique hotel offering family rooms, deluxe Queen and King rooms, a sun terrace, a pool and a bar.
Where to Eat in Berry
Address: 3/65 Queen Street and corner of Albany Street Bery
Fresh locally sourced produce and regional wine list.
For the latest photos and reviews click here
Address: 127B Queen Street Berry
Exciting Café menu with vegetarian and gluten-free options. Open till 3 pm.
For the latest reviews and photos of the Emporium Food Company click here
Address: 23 Prince Alfred Street Berry
Opened late 2019 and sister restaurant to Hungry Monkey in Kiama the Berry restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They are famous for their burgers and breakfast.
For the latest reviews and photos click here
Berry to Kangaroo Valley
The driving distance from Berry to Kangaroo Valley is 20 km with an average driving time of 25 minutes.
To Travel Too Tip: Take the State Tourist Drive 7 that winds up through Berry Mountain and stop at the Cambewarra Lookout for views and a visit to the Cafe.
The Lookout Cambewarra Café is over 100 years old and has a reputation for great Devonshire Teas.
Open daily from 10 am to 3 pm.
Kangaroo Valley is known as ‘Australia’s most beautiful valley’. First sighted in 1812 by George Evans, a surveyor explorer, he claimed ‘no painter could beautify’. Settlement occurred 5 years later in 1817 when the area began to be cleared and settled following the arrival of Charles Throsby and Captain Richard Brooks.
In 1977 the whole town was classified by the National Trust Association.
Things to do in Kangaroo Valley
View the Historical Buildings in Kangaroo Valley
- 1872 Anglican Church of the Good Shepherd
- 1880s Post Office
- 1880s Fudge House Building
- 1882 Church of the Good Shepherd Rectory
- 1890 The Old Bakery
- 1892 Friendly Inn
- 1904 Court House
Visit the many popular craft shops, tea rooms and cafes.
Walk the Hampden Bridge
Hampden Bridge is located just outside the village and is Australia’s last surviving wooden suspension bridge with its special Gothic Victorian sandstone towers that create the effect of entering a medieval castle.
Picnic at the Kangaroo River
On either side of the Hampden Bridge there are picnic and BBQ facilities to enjoy.
Canoe the Kangaroo River
Kangaroo Valley Canoes offer canoes or kayak adventures on the Kangaroo River. They have half-day, full-day and multi-day canoe and kayak trips.
Visit the Kangaroo Valley Museum to see:
- Dairy
- Forge
- Schoolhouse
- Settlers cottage
- Archie Chittck Museum
- War Remembrance Room
- Talking history visual displays
Enjoy the 7 hectares of bush and walking tracks.
Open: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 1000-1600
Open every day of the NSW school holidays
Address: 2029 Moss Vale Road (B73)
Where To Stay in Kangaroo Valley
Kangaroo Valley Golf & Country Resort
Address: 390 Mount Scanzi Road Kangaroo Valley
The Kangaroo Valley Golf & Country Resort offers 1 and 2-bedroom cottages and villas with:
lounge/dining
kitchenette/kitchens
Outdoor seating areas with views
18 hole Golf Course
outdoor swimming pool
tennis court
The Woolshed Restaurant is open for dinner on Friday & Saturday nights between 6 pm and 8.30 pm.
Address: 2501 Moss Vale Road Kangaroo Valley
4 well-appointed bedrooms with ensuite, wifi and breakfast included.
Kangaroo Valley to Huskisson and Jervis Bay
The driving distance from Kangaroo Valley to Huskisson via Moss Vale Road and Princes Highway A1 is 47km with an average driving time of 48 minutes.
Jervis Bay is well known for its stunning beaches, safe bay swimming and schools of dolphins. It includes the towns of:
- Huskisson
- Vincentia
- Hyams Beach
- Callala Bay
Jervis Bay is Rich in History
Rich in Aboriginal heritage where the local Aborigines still maintain strong connections with the land, this area has many ocean and bay beaches, lagoons, secret coves and hidden creeks.
Things to do in Jervis Bay
Spend a day at the Booderee National Park
Booderee is the aboriginal word for the bay of plenty or plenty of fish. The park offers:
- Camping
- Swimming
- Snorkelling
- Boating
- Bird watching
- Whale watching
- Walks
- Indigenous Guided Tour
- Visit the historical ruin of the Cape St George Lighthouse
Sail on the Harbour of Jervis Bay
Jervis Bay is 15 km long and 10 km wide. It has a depth of 27m and is said to be the deepest sheltered harbour in Australia.
Visit the many beaches of Jervis Bay:
- Murray’s Beach
- Greenfield Beach
- Huskisson Beach
- Hyams Beach
- Blenheim Beach
- Collingwood Beach
- Nelsons Beach
- Cave Beach
- Chinaman’s Beach
- Steamers Beach
- Shark Net Beach
- Little Target Beach
- Kittys Beach
Visit Point Perpendicular and the historic lighthouse
Drive through scenic bushland along the Beecroft Peninsula to Point Perpendicular and the historic lighthouse. During the cooler months, you can see whales migrate to the north. There are resident seals and white-bellied sea eagles around the rocks.
Visit the Jervis Bay Museum
Address: Woollamia Road Huskisson
Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm.
The Jervis Bay Museum has various exhibitions, historical vessels, maritime artefacts, navigational instruments and more.
Where to stay in Jervis Bay
Callala Bay
For that luxury family getaway or a romantic couples break, Barefoot at Callala Beach offers beachfront accommodation for 4 guests in 2 bedrooms (one queen-size bed and two single beds) and a modern bathroom with a bath.
- Open-plan living with beach and ocean views with open new wooden deck near the beach
- Well-equipped modern gourmet kitchen
- Gas log wood fire
- Outdoor entertaining area with Gas BBQ
- Direct private access to Callala Beach
- Outdoor hot and cold shower
- Meet the residents of Callala Beach – a pod of dolphins
- Pet friendly – fully fenced
Address: 21 Marine Parade Callala Bay
Mandala Beach House is a brand new, six-bedroom luxury holiday home in Jervis Bay. Offering five bathrooms, two living areas, a heated swimming pool, covered BBQ area, ducted air-conditioning throughout, Mandala has it all.
The upstairs living area will wow you with sweeping views across Jervis Bay and guests love sitting on our balcony watching the birds take flight and the resident dolphins.
At Mandala Beach House, you’ll feel like you are staying in a boutique resort. Mandala truly ticks all the boxes for the perfect holiday for families, groups of friends, corporate away days and retreats.
Mandala beach house is the perfect place to escape and unwind any time of the year.
Hyams Beach
Address: 53 Cyrus Street Hyams Beach
For a romantic getaway or solo retreat, the Hyams Beach Seaside Cottages offers 7 cottages that were originally fisherman’s cabins built in the 1920s. All are 1 bedroom suites with kitchenette and has bush and ocean views from the north-facing deck.
Address: 571 Woollamia Road Woollamia – 4km from Huskisson
If you are after a peaceful bush retreat look no further than the Paperbark Camp. Paperbark Camp has 13 ultra-luxe safari tents with open-air en-suite bathrooms with hot showers built above ground to capture the sea breezes. For the latest travellers photos click here.
Where to eat in Jervis Bay
Address: 571 Woollamia Road Woollamia
Open for breakfast and dinner 7 days a week in a treehouse setting at Paperbark Camp. Why not enjoy a drink and snacks at the Sundowner Deck between 1400 and 1800. Bookings are essential.
For the latest reviews and photos click here
Hyams Beach Café & General Store
Address: 76 Cyrus Street Hyams Beach
Open for breakfast and lunch for modern Australian fare between 0800 – 1500. The beach is only 100m away.
For the latest travellers reviews and photos click here.
Address: 64 – 66 Owen Street Huskisson
The 5 Little Pigs is a favourite of locals and visitors. The cafe is open daily from 0700 – 1600 and offers diners an excellent café menu with locally sourced produce.
For the latest photos and reviews of 5 Little Pigs click here
Address: 73 Owen Street Huskisson
The pub is a favourite of the locals and visitors. If you enjoy modern pub food and live music the Huskisson Pub has one of the best locations on the water. For the latest photos and reviews click here.
Jervis Bay Brewing Company
Address: 3 Duranbah Drive Huskisson
Open from Wednesday to Sunday:
Wednesday and Thursday 4 pm – 7 pm
Friday and Saturday 3 pm – 7 pm
Sunday 1 pm – 4 pm
For locally brewed craft beers and food trucks.
Huskisson Jervis Bay – Nerriga
The driving distance from Huskisson to Nerriga via Braidwood Road is 77km and the average driving time is 1 hour and 5 minutes.
If you enjoy country road driving the road from Huskisson to Braidwood via Nerriga is the way to go. The road was established in 1841 and known as the Wool Road allowing the transport of livestock and agricultural produce to Vincentia near Jervis Bay.
To Travel Too tip: fill up with petrol before you travel this road to Braidwood
Why travel via Nerriga to Braidwood on this road? Nerriga has a historical pub called The Bark Tree which was established in 1846 and first licenced in 1862. It was originally called The Commercial Hotel but is now known as the Nerriga Hotel. That’s basically all there is but it is worth having a drink in a place that has so much history.
Nerriga to Braidwood
The driving distance from Nerriga to Braidwood is 56 km on the Nerriga Road with an average driving time of 48 minutes.
Braidwood was once a gold mining town. Today it is a popular stop for travellers from Canberra on their way to Batemans Bay.
Things to do in Braidwood
Braidwood is a heritage-listed historic gold mining town located on the King’s Highway.
Braidwood is home to boutique shopping, cafes and restaurants and many historical buildings.
Royal Mail Hotel
The Royal Mail Hotel was used as a staging post in the 1890s for the gold rush and local settlements. Mick Jagger used the hotel when starring in the Ned Kelly film.
Enjoy delicious country food in the Bushranger Bistro.
Braidwood Historical Museum
Constructed in 1845 with local granite the building was first used as the Royal Hotel. In 1870 it became the Old Fellows Hall. In 1970 the Braidwood Historical Society purchased it.
Opening hours: Friday, Saturday and Sunday 11 am – 2 pm
Visit 5 & 7 Park Lane Braidwood
Visit the two cottages in Park Lane that were constructed in the 1850s and 1860s.
Visit the Masonic Temple
Address: 51 Elrington Street Braidwood
One of the earliest Masonic Temples was built in NSW which was constructed by a local cabinetmaker as a private home. The Masonic Façade was added in 1907.
Visit 31, 33 & 35 Elrington Street Braidwood
A group of cottages built in the 1850s.
Other Places of Interest
1856 – 1862 St Bede’s Roman Church at 83 Wallace Street Braidwood
1859 – Braidwood Hotel once known as the Commercial Hotel 180 Wallace Street
1865 – Post Office
1869 – Literary Association
1870 – Criterion Hotel, originally known as Torpy’s Hotel on the corner of Lascelles & Wallace Street
1872 – Albion Hotel Cnr Wallace & Duncan Streets
1888 – Commercial Bank 104 Wallace Street
1890 – St Andrews Anglican Church, tower completed 1890. The church was constructed with local granite and it is said to have used gargoyles in the design, some of the first-ever to be used in NSW
1900 – Braidwood Court House
Visit Monga National Park
20 km south-east of Braidwood is the Monga National Park. You can drive a 2WD 21 km tourist loop, walk the 12 km Corn Trail Walk, stroll the Penance Grove Walking Trail that is wheelchair friendly, picnic along the banks of the Mongarlower River and enjoy the coolness of the rainforest.
Where to stay in Braidwood
For the latest deals on Booking.com place your travel dates below.
Address: 140 Little River Road
Award-winning luxury self-contained accommodation on a working 124-acre farm.
Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travellers have to say at Tripadvisor
Where To Eat in Braidwood
Address: 68 Wallace Street Braidwood
Casanova’s is a family-run café serving local produce and seasonal food. Try their all-day breakfast.
For the latest reviews and photos click here.
Address: 85 Duncan Street Braidwood
The 1882 built historical carriage house is a trendy café and a concept store selling flowers antiques and more.
For the latest reviews and photos click here
Braidwood to Bungendore
The driving distance from Braidwood to Bungendore via the King’s Highway is 48.2 km with an average driving time of 34 minutes.
Wander around the small main street of historical Bungendore with its few shops. The Bungendore Inn built in 1847 became a Cobb and Co staging post. Cobb and Co operated many stagecoaches throughout the outback areas of Australia delivering mail and goods. It’s a quaint town and worth a visit.
Historical Buildings of Bungendore.
Take a stroll about Bungendore starting at the western end of Malbon Street (Kings Highway), continue till you reach Majara Street, head north into Gibraltar Street and return via Molonglo Street to where you commenced.
1885 – Carrington Inn – old Cob & Co Coaching Inn constructed from 20,000 hand made clay bricks
1918 – the former Bungendore Store on the corner of Malbon & Ellendon Streets is now the Bungendore Village Leather
1884 – 85 Railway Station in Majara Street
1879 – Primary School on the corner of Majara and Gibraltar Streets
1890 – School of Arts on Gibraltar Street
1882 – Post Office on Gibraltar Street
1902 – Police Residence on the corner of Butmaroo Street
1864 – Old Courthouse now Police Station on Butmaroo Street
1882 – Royal Hotel on 34 Gibraltar Street
1838 – Lake George Hotel was originally known as the Harp Hotel at 20 Gibraltar Street
1850s – Gunna Doo Bakery at 18 Gibraltar Street
1890 – Strathmore – Victorian House in Gibraltar Street
1870 – Oriental Bank Building on Molongo Street
Southern Harvest Farmers Market
Address: Cnr Butmaroo & Gibraltar Street
Every Saturday morning 9 am – 12 pm
Address: 31 Joe Rocks Road
Cellar Door open from Thursday to Monday 11 am – 4 pm.
Since 2003 Lark Hill has been using biodynamic farming methods.
Lark Hill produce 3 whites, 2 reds and sparkling wine.
Where to stay in Bungendore
Address: 59 Ellendon Street
A range of accommodation from spa suites, family rooms, garden suites and a disabled suite – 26 rooms in total.
Address: 41 Molongo Street
Built in the 1860s and offers 4 guest rooms 3 with ensuite and 1 with private bathroom
Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travellers have to say at Tripadvisor
Where to eat
Address: 31 Joe Rocks Road
For local fare paired with Lark Hill wines
Open for lunch Friday to Monday and dinner Friday and Saturday
For the latest reviews and photos click here
Le Tres Bon
Address: 40 Malbon Street
Slow movement French-inspired cuisine using local fresh and seasonal produce and organic meat.
Open for lunch and dinner Wednesday – Saturday
Lunch on Sunday
For the latest reviews and photos click here
Bungendore to Canberra
The driving distance from Bungendore to Canberra via Macs Reef Road and the Federal Highway is 40.3 km with an average driving time of 30 minutes.
You have now reached your destination of Canberra, the capital of Australia. We hope you enjoyed your drive.
Canberra Accommodation
We have the 5 best family accommodations for you in Canberra.
Canberra Tours
Looking for things to do in Canberra?
Where to Eat in Canberra
For the top 10 restaurants in Canberra click here.
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We hope you enjoyed our Sydney Canberra Road Trip adventure. We would love to hear all about your adventures. Safe travels.
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