Fall in love, with Shoalhaven

Looking for a romantic escape? There’s more to Shoalhaven than beautiful scenery and wide open spaces. Check out our FIVE ideas for enjoying the region as a couple.

Grape Expectations

Sipping wines in the sun? Sounds idyllic – and there are at least a dozen ways to do so in style thanks to the range of award-winning vineyards throughout the region, producing varietals including Chardonnay, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon and many more. Park up at the historic Coolangatta Estate for a tour or dine in the restaurant – or enjoy great views at Two Figs Winery. If you like a little more fun and excitement between the vines then Crooked River Wines has got to be the place, they're passionate about live music too and hold some super cool festivals in this stella location. Further south, Cupitt’s Estate near Ulladulla is a hive of activity, offering dining options plus live music and a sustainably sourced menu, while Kangaroo Valley’s Lyrebird Ridge is a haven of organic delights and country serenity. For more information, check here.

Dine in Your Arms Tonight

Of course, all that award-winning wine needs to be paired with equally exquisite food – and you’re in luck, with a bounty of talented chefs calling Shoalhaven home. Berry’s Queen Street Eatery offers a special, French-inspired menu, while Bangalay at Shoalhaven Heads has fast become a champagne-bucket list location for fine dining. Enjoy a romantic riverfront dining experience at the delightful Ponte in Nowra, or for an infusion of unique Southeast Asian cuisine, Wildginger in Huskisson has you covered. Or if you’re craving seafood, Rick Stein’s at Bannisters in Mollymook is a must-do affair. And for a sweet treat, you’ll love the handcrafted chocolates from Woodstock in Milton.

Life’s a Picnic

But why bother with a table, when BYO dining in the open air offers plenty more variety? You can stock up on delicious basket-friendly goodies at the Nowra Farmers Market – open every day with quality produce from local farmers and overseas. Alternatively, if you’re heading to Kangaroo Valley, you’ll find a sumptuous selection at Hampden Deli. Remember Bangalay at Shoalhaven Heads? Well, they can set you up with your very own picnic hamper. Or why not let the team at Once Upon a Picnic Co take care of absolutely everything, including the venue and styling!

Get your Heart Racing

Of course, it’s not all wining and dining – and couples who play together, stay together! Enjoy paddling or kayaking Jervis Bay or Kangaroo Valley. Or for something deep and meaningful with Dive Adventures Ulladulla. Ready to get back in the saddle? Do so with a horse safari. Or take your relationship to new heights (in any weather!) at Indoor Climb South Coast. And if you’d like to spot dolphins or whales, but want a private viewing, why not hire your very own yacht with Jervis Bay Sailing Charters!

Spa-ing Partners

Phew, time to relax again – with a couples day spa experience. The Spa by the Sea experience at Bannisters in Mollymook is divine. Alternatively, pamper yourself at Luscious Boutique in Nowra, or indulge in a Bellissima luxury experience at Culburra Beach. A couples massage is just what cupid ordered at Goddess Spa in Burrill Lake, or let the day spa come to you with Organic Day Spa – servicing the Berry and Jervis Bay area. 

Get a Room, you two

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to turn Shoalhaven into ‘wow-haven’ for your next romantic escape. And for accommodation with a difference, why not try one of the glamping options on offer throughout the region like Glamping Out, they will set you up at any of our parks if you book directly through them, like they did above at Holiday Haven Culburra Beach for one of our guests. But enough ideas, it’s time for bed…