Located 2 hours south of Sydney, Kangaroo Valley offers a tranquil escape from the busy hustle of city life. With beautiful wilderness, verdant farmland, sparkling creeks, this Shoalhaven region is arguably one of the most beautiful valleys in Australia. There is also plenty to do here, from kayaking, canoeing, wine tasting, or enjoying a charming lunch in town.
What to see and do:
Enter into town and explore
Explore the old country charm of Kangaroo Valley’s main street dating back to the 1870’s. Here, visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to grabbing a bite to eat, from heritage-listed pubs, tea rooms, the town’s Pie Shop, Bakehouse, or the Fudge House and Ice Creamery for dessert. Other things to do include exploring the other charming stores in town, learning about Australia’s colonial history at the Pioneer Village Museum, or snapping a shot at the historic Hampden Bridge.
Cruise down the river in a canoe or kayak
For those looking for a bit more of a thrill, why not hire a kayak or canoe and cruise down the Valley’s tranquil rivers, immersing yourself in the abundant wildlife and absolute nature? Take a single kayak, double kayak, or a family canoe and meander down the Kangaroo River over several rapids and past 6km of beautiful scenery on either side. If you’re here just for a day or travelling with younger children, paddle through the Hampden Bridge or take a flatwater trip into the National Park. You can also opt for longer eco-tours and multi-day camping safaris if you’re in town for more than a couple of days.
Go on a walk or hike
Visitors can choose from a wide range of nature trails and scenic hikes in Kangaroo Valley with a number of spectacular waterfalls close by as well. Fitzroy Falls is a 20-minute drive from town where you’ll discover two enormous waterfalls.
The Three Views Walk is one of the easiest, most accessible walks, perfect for the whole family. The trail takes you through open woodland, picturesque wildflower display, and past cliff views of river gorges and sweeping wilderness.
Another popular walk is the McPhails Trail which meanders through the lush-green, oxygen-rich forests of Kangaroo Valley. Breathe in the cool, moist atmosphere as magnificent cedar trees tower over you.
Mannings Lookout is another easy bush walk that brings you to outstanding cliff-top views of Kangaroo Valley and fantastic birdwatching opportunities. Upon reaching the sandstone plateau, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping forests and woodlands, and beyond that, the dramatic landscape of the NSW Southern Highlands.
Videos of Kangaroo Valley
NSW South Coast Road Trip
How to get there:
The easiest route is by car, the drive taking approximately 2 hours from Sydney. Take the South Western Motorway, then the Hume Highway, Old Hume Highway, before following the signs to Fitzroy Falls. Kangaroo Valley will be 10km down the same road.
There is also a coastal route, from Sydney make your way to the Grand Pacific Drive and feel the city air transform into fresh, coastal breezes. Following the Princes Highway exit at B65 Bulli Pass/ Thirroul onto Lawrence Hargrave Drive bringing you to the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge. This route then runs past Kiama, Berry and then inland into Kangaroo Valley.