Cow Paddocks at Jamberoo

If you want to ‘blow yourself away’ with a perfect escape for doing plenty or doing plenty of nothing – visit Kiama. Only 1.5 hour drive south of Sydney with an exciting natural phenomenon that has given the town it’s name; Kiama actually means “where the sea makes a noise”.

Apart from the celebrated Kiama Blowhole there are 9 beautiful beaches, rivers, rock pools, inlets & basins and 2 harbours for boats.  There is a 22 Km scenic coastal walk between Minnamurra River to the north and Werri Beach to the south, via the Blowhole, Lighthouse, rocky headlands, secret caves, coves and glorious ocean vistas.

Highlights of Kiama

The charming countryside surrounding Kiama has lush tumbling hills dotted with dairy cows on green pastures.  You can meander through picturesque Jamberoo, Saddleback Mountain and Rose Valley to see historic dry stone walls, country pubs, wineries and old red-roofed farmhouses.  Nearby villages worth a look include Jamberoo, Gerringong, Gerroa, Bombo, Minnamurra and Shell Harbour.

Kiama and surrounding areas

Other things to do and places of interest are:

1.   Carrington Falls – spectacular waterfall and bush walks 24 Km west of Jamberoo.
2.   Cathedral Rocks – Stunning rock formations 3 Km north of Kiama which can be viewed on the coastal walk.
3.   Family History Centre – a comprehensive Genealogical Centre for family history research in Australia.
4.   Gerringong Heritage Centre – significant display and information of the historic flight by Kingsford Smith from Seven Mile Beach in the Southern Cross and the history of dairying in the area.
5.   Jamberoo Pub and Johnny Warren Museum – this Pub boasts Jamberoo’s history but also sporting memorabilia from all codes of football.  A look at the sporting life of the great Johnny Warren, Australia’s first Socceroos captain.

6.   Bombo Headland – a legacy of blue metal quarrying in the 1880’s and 1900’s has left a moonscape of basalt walls and columns which can be seen on the coastal walk.

7.   Bonaira Native Gardens – beautiful gardens featuring rainforest species which can be explored on foot or by bicycle.

8.   Crooked River Winery – Taste some local wines at this winery south of Gerringong

9.   Farm Gate Trail – Eat your way around the area and try local cheeses, wine, teas, oils and olives.  Pickup a detailed map from the Kiama Visitors Centre.

10. Historic Terrace Houses and Sandstone Walk Shops – in Collins Lane, Kiama.  Originally built for the local quarry workers in 1886, these National Trust classified historic buildings now house a unique selection of crafts, collectables, clothing and eateries.

For such a tiny slice of Australia, natural beauty is abundant in Kiama.  No wonder it is described as the ‘gateway to heaven’ to the South Coast of NSW.