A healthy weekend in Shoalhaven
Posted on
I love a weekend away – but as someone who is quite into my health and fitness, the idea of laying by the pool sipping cocktails for days on end doesn’t quite do it for me.
An afternoon? Oh yes. Three days, however, and I think I’d go stir crazy.
When an invitation from Shoalhaven Tourism arrived in my inbox, I was excited. After speaking to world surfing champion Tyler Wright about her favourite spots to surf and explore around her home town, I was counting down the days.
Finally, that day arrived and my boyfriend James and I hopped in the car, the new Surf Shoalhaven book in hand, ready to surf some waves, eat some delicious food and get our hike on.
First up was a stand-up paddle board lesson with former world champion Pam Burridge at her namesake surf school. We arrived in the sleepy town of Milton to rain and chilly winds. Alas, no SUP for us.
The rain didn’t dampen our spirits however, and we took refuge in Pilgrims, a cute little vegetarian café. I can honestly say I would make the five-hour return trip to Milton just for their Bliss Burger and Bombie (apple, beetroot, carrot and ginger juice) – which is exactly what I ordered. I’m pleased to report it was just as delicious as I remembered, with it’s mixed grain pattie, peanut sauce and plenty of sprouts.
Next we took a stroll through the lovely boutiques and cafes before heading to Huskisson to check into our Bed & Breakfast. Located just around the corner from the main street of Huskisson, Dolphin Sands is a beautiful house with the most serene, lush gardens. We were greeted by Lucille who ran us through all the need-to-knows and asked what our plans were. She suggested some really helpful local insights and tips on where to go and what to do.
Our room was positively gorgeous –huge, with wooden floorboards, a massive bed, plush white robes, and an ensuite complete with a huge spa bath. What I really loved were there ample windows that flooded the room with natural light and provided beautiful views to the gardens, where you could hear birds chirping away. Bliss.
For dinner, we walked to Wild Ginger where the flavours are predominantly Thai with other South East Asian influences. My favourite was the crispy pork belly, with baby mandarin, pickled wild ginger, chilli, and black Chinese vinegar caramel.
The following morning we set off to Shoalhaven Zoo where were booked in for a Tree Top Ropes Experience at Trees Adventure. I actually can’t believe how much fun we had doing this! There are a range of courses for all abilities, and James and I set off on the red and black courses – the toughest of the bunch. It’s physically and mentally challenging, as you have to figure out how to navigate the various obstacles. There were some amazing ziplines and the views are spectacular, as it’s located within the Zoo and right on the banks of the river.
After the course we grabbed some quick lunch and headed to the Grotto Walk, which came highly recommended by our host Lucille. It was lush and green with so many different paths to explore. It’s not the easiest walk, with some pretty steep climbs. In fact, it’s a popular rock climbing spot, with breathtakingly beautiful cliff faces.
For dinner we were booked in to Bannisters Pavilion Rooftop Bar & Grill at Mollymook. I’d heard it was good and it lived up to it’s reputation. I loved the Mexican/Southern Californian menu – the tacos were amazing and the slow-cooked BBQ beef ribs to die for.
We really wanted to make our last day special, so we woke up at 5am and headed off on the bikes that had been delivered by Jervis Bay Bike Hire the day before. We rode to Greenfields Beach – about a 15 kilometre return trip which is mostly beachside bike paths. It was a gorgeous ride, with the sun rising above the coastline.
On the way back we stopped in at Pilgrim’s in Milton for some pancakes before packing up our gear and heading to Booderee National Park – one of my favourite places. I stashed a few cheeky ciders in my backpack which we sipped on mid-way through our hike. After a little nap on the beach in the sun, we set off for the trip back home.
Our getaway to Shoalhaven was nothing short of divine. I would highly recommend it for a trip that’s relaxing but with plenty of opportunities to get active. I can’t wait to return soon.
The author stayed as a guest of Shoalhaven Tourism.
Leave a Reply