Eight road trips to get you out of town this weekend
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Keen to get out of Canberra for the long weekend? We’ve got you covered.
No matter if you want to take a day trip to the country or are craving the beach, here are eight road trips to get you out of town. And no, Batemans Bay isn’t included (as much as we love it).
Country
Credit: Orange360.
Braidwood
Only an hour’s drive away, Braidwood is the perfect place to go if you want to get away for only a day.
The vibe: A quintessential country town, you can’t help but love the easy-going nature of the locals. But don’t be fooled – while it might look quiet on the surface, there’s plenty to discover.
Why we love it: Quirky fashion, jewellery and vintage boutiques, rustic streetscapes, and plenty of country pubs, café, and bakeries (hello, freshly baked pies) for when hunger strikes. What’s not to love about this little gem?
Jugiong
Want to go a little further? Jugiong is only 90 minutes away and is home to the Long Track Pantry, the iconic historic Sir George, the Jugiong Wine Cellar, and Jugiong Motel. Book a night or two away and enjoy the slow life.
The vibe: It might be small, but Jugiong is mighty. From eating your way through town (literally) to more nature-based experiences, it’s the perfect remedy to the hustle and bustle of Canberra.
Why we love it: With rolling paddocks greeting you on the drive from Canberra, eclectic boutiques – think homewares, fashion, and art– and some of the best food the region has to offer thanks to the fine local produce (including wines from the local wine regions of Gundagai, Tumbarumba, Young and Murrumbateman), it’s simply charming.
Orange
Cool climate wine, moreish meals and only scenic three-and-a-half hours drive from Canberra – Orange is one of Australia’s most prominent and sophisticated gastronomic destinations, making it the perfect getaway for foodies.
The vibe: Rolling hills, country hospitality, stunning boutiques, and one-of-a-kind local art (not to mention the wine). Expect all the best bits of country living fused with very modern tastes.
Why we love it: No matter the time of year, Orange is thriving. And from award-winning restaurants to the 60 vineyards that dot the surrounding countryside, you will genuinely need a long weekend to truly experience the best of this town. And the best part? In autumn and winter, it’s absolutely stunning.
Narrandera
With elegant country charm, a corridor of gorgeous red gums, and an oasis surrounded by nature, a little 3.5-hour drive away, this little town is the best blend of Australia’s native environment and history.
The vibe: Koala watching among the red gums, country-style meals in a retro restaurant, and Narrandera’s Big Playable Guitar…it’s everything you want when settling down for a few days in a country town.
Why we love it: Known for its acclaimed wines and the stunning sandy beaches on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, from boutique shopping to heritage walks, there are plenty of must-dos if you want to get out (and plenty of cosy places to settle down if you don’t).
Beach
Credit: Tim Bean Photography.
Bermagui
Home to stunning beaches, ocean pools, and coastal walks, you might associate Bermagui’s blue waters with summer. But when the temperature turns cold you shouldn’t cross it off your list.
The vibe: A small, vibrant natural paradise that offers an incredibly diverse range of attractions all year round, Bermagui is a quiet coastal haven that will leave you feeling refreshed after a visit.
Why we love it: A scenic 3.5-hour drive from Canberra, you’ll be spoiled for choice. From seafood, Italian, Asian, European, and modern Australian eateries to wine bars and more casual cafes, foodies (like us) will be in heaven. And with plenty of coastal bush walks to explore and fantastic fishing, this beautiful seaside village has more to explore than the beach.
Jervis Bay
In the heart of Jervis Bay, you’ll find a vibrant town and plenty of unspoilt natural beauty. But there’s more to this destination than meets the eye.
The vibe: There’s something incredibly magical about Shoalhaven in the cooler months. Quiter than summertime, with white sandy beaches, clear blue water, and welcoming hospitality, you can’t help but want to immerse yourself in their relaxed lifestyle.
Why we love it: With plenty of charming seaside towns and villages to explore in the area, dolphin and whale watching cruises—starting in May every year Shoalhaven is home to a massive humpback whale migration—and plenty of breathtaking walks to help you reset and return to nature, you won’t ever be short on things to do. And full of small coastal cafés, microbreweries, fine dining restaurants, and seaside bistros, it’s also a foodie’s delight—did someone say dining amongst the treetops?
Tathra
Three hours’ drive from Canberra via Cooma, this coastal town is a place to go if you want to slow down and take in all the town’s gems (which besides beaches include bushwalking and plenty of seafood).
The vibe: Laid-back vibes and stunning water views. What more do you need? From coastal walks (with viewing platforms for whale watching) to the chance to hit the hills on two wheels and menus that are packed full of oysters, Tathra combines leisure and adventure.
Why we love it: Family friendly (but still great for adrenaline seekers), it offers the quintessential beach life that Canberrans often associate with summer. But add in the natural beauty of the cold (which will be countered by delicious and warming food) and you won’t be able to help falling in love—just like us.
Eden
This often-overlooked gem on the far South Coast is worth the drive – think: lighthouses, pristine beaches and natural wonders that will quickly have you forgetting about city life.
The vibe: As one of the best whale-watching spots in Australia, you can expect this town to be a little slice of paradise if you’re looking for a wild escape. Enjoy the peace and get up close to marine life like never before.
Why we love it: Sparkling waters, spotting humpback whales, historic buildings, and seafood feasts fresh from the source (as well as gin and wine tastings). There’s something magical about this natural paradise.
Feature image: Braidwood Hotel by Adam McGrath.
