Adventure awaits on the far South Coast
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With summer coming to an end, you might be thinking of bedding down for the winter. Blankies on the couch, too much Netflix…we know the drill.
Before you get too carried away, though, we’ve got a little suggestion. It might not be quite as chill; it definitely won’t involve blankies, but as the kids say (or used to say) YOLO!
Call your besties, grab the family and jump in the car. You’re heading for a far South Coast adventure that will shake away any thoughts of hibernation.
The base for this adventure is Eden. Just over a three-hour drive from Canberra, Eden is the ideal spot to experience the best of what the far South Coast has to offer.
STAY
Credit: Flow.
Your haven for this unforgettable adventure is the Hotel Australasia in Eden. Its recent multi-million-dollar renovation has restored its original 1904 facade, and on the inside, you’ll find a bold elegance that redefines luxury in the region.
The beautifully renovated rooms all vary in layout and design, offering plush king beds, stylish interiors, deep and rich colour schemes and a sense of old-world charm meets modern styling. After a day of adventure, you can unwind at the hotel’s bar or enjoy a quiet moment on the veranda, soaking in the sea breeze.
PLAY
This rugged part of the New South Wales coastline is the drawcard, but coming into the chilly months, your adventure will be less about beaches and more about the many activities on offer in the area.
Discover an ancient pathway with a Bilbaan Cultural Experience
Kick off your exploration with a Bilbaan Cultural Experience on the Bundian Way. Guided by a local Aboriginal, you will walk in the footsteps of the Yuin people along the 3.8 kilometre trail that is the gateway to the ancient Bundian Way. The Bundian Way is a 365 kilometre pathway that once provided safe passage for Aboriginal tribal groups between the coast and high country. You will discover Indigenous stories, traditional bush foods, and the deep cultural significance of this ancient path.
Kayak the Pambula River and explore an Oyster farm
Glide along the serene Pambula River surrounded by lush forests and sparkling turquoise waters as your expert guide points out hidden coves and local wildlife—think sea eagles soaring overhead or fish darting beneath your kayak.
Your journey will end with an immersive oyster experience at Broadwater Oysters, where you’ll learn about sustainable oyster farming and taste the freshest Sydney rock oysters you’ve ever had—plucked straight from the water.
No kayaking experience is necessary to undertake this adventure, and families are welcome with double and triple kayaks supplied. Book your trip here.
Hire an E-bike and choose your own adventure
Ride Creative Lines can hook you up with an e-bike for a few hours or the day. Peddle your way (with the assistance of a little battery power) along the stunning Lake Curalo Boardwalk, which meanders through Melaleuca forest, along salt marshes and into the mouth of the estuary, where you can join the Aslings Beach maritime walk.
The two paths combined make for a 10 kilometre trip that is dotted with places to stop for a picnic and use the amenities, allowing you to take the trails at your own pace.
If you’re craving an adrenaline hit, Eden Shuttles can take you to Gravity Eden Mountain Bike Park. Located just outside of Eden, this premier biking destination boasts over 58 kilometres of trails with 300 metres of elevation, winding through Nullica State Forest.
EAT
Credit: Destination NSW.
After a day of adventure, you’ll be in search of a memorable meal, and Eden and its surrounding region has you covered.
Hotel Australiasia
If you’re exhausted from your day’s exploration, the Hotel Australasia offers dining both within the main bar and in a cosy dining room, or if the weather holds out, they also have a large beer garden with an outdoor woodfired pizza oven.
The menu is seasonal, offering seafood, pastas and a range of both hearty and light dishes, and the wood-fired pizzas are a highlight with flavours like quattro formaggi, prosciutto and gorgonzola and a truffled pork pizza.
In case you hadn’t guessed it…there are also oysters.
Seahorse Inn in Boydtown
Just a short drive from Eden. Perched on the shores of Twofold Bay, this boutique hotel’s brasserie specialises in fresh local seafood and produce accompanied by fine wines. Open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, you’ll choose from dishes like coconut prawn salad, sous vide pork belly, prawn and chorizo paella and, of course, local oysters. The bay views are a bonus, especially at sunset.
Toast Cafe Eden
For a casual brekky or lunch, head down to Toast Cafe (formerly Sprout). The menu of familiar favourites like eggs on toast, avo on toast, eggs benny, paninis and toasties are supplemented by regular chef’s specials that are seasonal and innovative. You’ll be in for a taste of home as well, with their coffee of choice being Canberra’s own ONA coffee.
Winter is certainly sounding a whole lot more exciting now, isn’t it?
Feature image credit: Destination NSW.
