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Sydney to Canberra
Many people consider the drive from Sydney to Canberra boring, but it doesn't have to be. This 4 day slow-paced road trip was made to enjoy the best of the south coast of New South Wales, going through small towns, nice beaches and a bit of Australian history.
4-Day Road Trip From NSW to The ACT
Start: Sydney
Finish: Canberra
Duration: 385km; 4 Days
Day 1: Sydney to Wollongong
Distance: 85km
Time: 1hr 25 minutes
Leave Sydney early to enjoy some excellent stops along the way. South Sydney has beautiful beaches such as Cronulla and Kurnell. Take the A1 and drive to the Royal National Park where it will only cost you an entry fee of AUD12.00 for the day. Here you’ll be able to check out the National Falls, Wedding Cake Rock and Figure Eight Pools. The Symbio Wildlife is the perfect stop for families: children (and adults) can feed kangaroos, take pictures with koalas.
While in Wollongong, head to the lighthouse and sunbathe at Wollongong Beach. Mount Keira Summit Park and lookout are an annex of Wollongong Botanic Garden, located at the top of the Illawarra escarpment. Make a visit the ‘Six Daughters of the West Wind’ sculpture, a piece of significance for Aboriginal culture.
Before leaving Wollongong, stop at Port Kembla Beach for sunbathing and swimming. Visit the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist Temple in the Southern Hemisphere. The temple is a retreat for architecture, art and culture including unique exhibitions and festivals.
Recommended Accomodation:
Credit: Destination NSW
Day 2: Wollongong to Kiama
Distance: 42km
Time: 35 minutes
Kiama has some of the best beaches in south New South Wales. The town is known for its many lookouts, unique rock formations, geological sites and excellent restaurants and cafes.
The Kiama Blowhole is one of the largest ‘ocean fountains’ in the world and sprays seawater over 20 metres into the air. While there, check out the Kiama Lighthouse nearby. Located in the Budderoo National Park, the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre teaches visitors about its unique ecosystem and Aboriginal artefacts.
Walk one (or all) sections of the Kiama Coastal Walk, one of the most scenic coastal walks in New South Wales. Take in the fantastic scenery, its stunning beaches and dramatic rock formations.
The Kiama Farmers Markets happen every Wednesday, bringing fresh farm produce and entertainment for the kids. Stroll along Collins Street, known for the historic terraces converted to boutique shops and eateries, perfect for a wander.
Recommended Accomodation:
Day 3: Kiama to Goulburn
Distance: 170km
Time: 2hrs 25 minutes
Continue on A1 and reach the beautiful town of Berry. The small town is famous for its gardens, arts and crafts, antiques and markets. Walk to the Berry Donut Van, a local favourite for over 55 years. Their hot and fresh cinnamon donuts are worth the long queues. Stop at the Treat Factory for handcrafted chocolates, confectionery and preserves. Get some goodies to take on your journey.
As you take the B73 (Moss Vale Rd) and head to Kangaroo Valley, cross the iconic Hampden Bridge and drive to Upper Kangaroo River for wine tasting and a cheese platter at Yarrawa Estate. Stop by the Kangaroo Valley Pie Shop or Kangaroo Valley Bakehouse for freshly baked treats.
Head to Fitzroy Falls, a picturesque village in Morton National Park (Southern Highlands), famous for its spectacular waterfall with the same name. Follow the boardwalk from the Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre along the creek to a lookout with stunning views of the waterfall and the Yarrunga Valley.
Declared Australia's first inland city in 1863, Goulburn is a historic town filled with museums, restaurants and galleries. The Rocky Hill War Memorial and Museum overlooks inland and commemorates local women and men who served in World War I.
Make a quick stop to snap a photo with the Big Merino and grab a range of merino products at their gift shop. Visit St. Saviour's Cathedral and admire its high vaulted ceilings and beautiful stained glass windows.
Recommended Accommodation:
Credit: Tourism Southern Highlands
Day 4: Goulburn to Canberra
Distance: 97km
Time: 1hr
Take the M23 and head south, making a stop at Lake George for a quick break. Founded following the federation of the colonies of Australia as the seat of government for the new nation, Canberra is Australia's largest inland city.
Canberra is filled with cultural attractions and Australian history. First stop is the National Museum of Australia, which includes exhibits on Indigenous cultural history and Australian industry, clothing, and migration.
Some of the other main attractions are the National Gallery of Australia, the Parliament of Australia and the Australian War Memorial, an impressive art deco homage to Australia’s current and past military activity.
Hike or drive to Mount Ainslie Lookout for a panoramic view of the city. If you fancy a bit of exercise, you can hike up Kokoda Track to the lookout. This is one of the most popular walks in Canberra. The 4.5km trail starts in Remembrance Park behind the War Memorial.
Finish the day in one of the city’s many restaurants and bars for some good food and dancing.
Recommended Accommodation:
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