Just two hours from Sydney and Canberra, the Shoalhaven has long been a favourite destination for summer travellers, but every year, from May to November the magic of winter takes over the South Coast as the annual whale migration kisses the coastline, wines are uncorked, and local restaurants serve up delicious menus with local produce.
Whether it’s the adventure of swimming in the wild with whales you seek, meeting the makers at cellar doors, or laid-back fine dining whilst the fireplace crackles beside you, you don’t need to travel overseas to experience something truly unique. Your next cosy escape awaits on the South Coast just two hours from Sydney and Canberra.
The Shoalhaven Wine Coast is a treat for both wine connoisseurs and those looking for fresh country air and adventure. Award-winning varietals are paired with fun and foodie activities like High Tea in a giant teacup or horseback rides through the vines, top class restaurants, tours, art galleries and meet-the-maker experiences. All 9 of the region’s cellar doors are located on the coast’s doorstep including award winning Cambewarra Estate Winery, Mountain Ridge Wines, Coolangatta Estate, and Cupitts Estate.
“Our region is unique to the other areas in NSW as it has a maritime climate with cool coastal breezes.” said Brett Richardson, President, Shoalhaven Wine Coast Association. “The geology of the Shoalhaven Coast creates a tendency for white wines to be fruit-driven and well-balanced in style and medium-bodied red wines with fine tannins and elegant fruit characters.”
“Winter is a great time to visit the Shoalhaven Coast wine region, you can admire the vines, meet the winemakers, and be among the first to taste some brand-new releases,” added Richardson.
From May to November each year, the Shoalhaven coast comes alive with the annual whale migration. The Shoalhaven is lucky to be situated in the middle of this ‘Humpback Highway’ and therefore have consistent whale sightings throughout all of winter and spring. Jervis Bay with its white sand beaches is known for its whale and dolphin cruises close to shore in calm waters. Book a whale watching eco-cruise with Jervis Bay Wild or Dolphin Watch to get up close with humpback whales, or try a ‘Swim with the Whales’ experience with Dive Jervis Bay a unique way to have an in water experience with the humpbacks and one of only a few licenses in NSW Waters.
“Each year between June and November the south coast comes alive with the spectacular acrobatic displays of humpback and Southern Right whales,” said Peter Ellis from Dive Jervis Bay.
“A swimming encounter with a whale is something you will never forget. Each whale has a different personality and are very curious and will come close to see you or circle below you. It is a truly one in a lifetime experience, one you will not forget.
The Slow Food movement is alive in the Shoalhaven, with the local south coast groups working with chefs and cooks to award the ‘Snail of Approval.’ These Shoalhaven eateries are committed to using more local seasonal produce, so diners will get a taste of truly local food, without unnecessary food miles. Head to Kangaroo Valley and savour the tastes and textures of offerings from The General Café and Hampden Deli. Take in epicurean experiences in Berry’s charming neighbourhood dining hotspots South on Albany, The Garden Berry, and Far Meadow Table. For coastal cuisine, a trip to Milton and Ulladulla will get you a dining experience not-to-be-missed with Cupitt’s Estate, Duke & Co, GWYLO, Milk Haus, Small Town Milton, Saltwood Kioloa and Treehouse Café.
“Slow Food is an International Association in over 160 countries worldwide that aims to prevent the disappearance of local food cultures and traditions and supports small producers in their endeavor to remain sustainable, promoting a thriving food community locally,” said Rosie Cupitt Leader, Slow Food South Coast.
“The Shoalhaven region is the largest joint Slow Food group in Australia, with restaurants and providores up and down the South Coast committed to promoting how good food choices can influence our environment and help to change the world for the better.” Added Cupitt.
Unique accommodation is also key – from Bannisters Hotels in Mollymook, or Bangalay Villas on Seven Mile Beach, and Paperbark Camp’s unique outdoors safari tents, there’s an array of options to satisfy the needs of every traveller.
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