01 Aug 2022
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Winter, Wineries and Whales!
Winter is the perfect time in the Shoalhaven to partake in one of the South Coast’s signature attractions. Full-bodied, splashy and a wonderful way to spend a few hours, we are of course talking about our region’s boutique wineries. Oh, actually, that same description could also apply to whale watching. Well, let’s simply cover both!
With an ideal climate and no shortage of ideal soil and green valleys, this lush region has, for the past few decades, quickly built up its reputation as a home to quality vineyards. In fact, Shoalhaven wineries and estates have now amassed more than 1000 local and international awards between them – for varietals including Semillon, Chardonnay, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon and many more. They’re also delightful places to pay a visit to – especially right now – with welcoming cellar doors, restaurants and more. So sit back and sample our top picks for sipping and savouring on the Shoalhaven Wine Coast.
Berry/Nowra
Set on the site of an 150-year-old dairy farm, this small working vineyard is located between Berry and Nowra (look for the iconic silos). With easy access off the newly-upgraded highway and EV stations for your car while you sip and sample from the impressive cellar door, it’s a wonderful place for all to recharge!
Coolangatta mountain is already an easy landmark from miles around Shoalhaven Heads, and the award-winning grand estate that shares its name is almost as old – dating back 200 years. Includes a cellar door, restaurant, and historic accommodation, plus tours and picnic options.
With a cellar door, restaurant/cafe, market garden and accommodation, this boutique family-run winery’s ethos is “cultivated with conscience, crafted for pleasure”. Situated between Berry and Seven Mile Beach, alongside Cullunghutti Mountain, you’ll feel right at home sipping on a range of whites and organic reds.
Even if you don’t give two figs about wine (although it is very good), the location alone of this hilltop winery will win you over – with stunning views out over the Shoalhaven River and surrounding countryside. The cellar door is a wonderful way to while away an afternoon.
Not far from Nowra, urban sprawl gives way to green foothills of Cambewarra Mountain – and a family-run estate that features a quality restaurant and tasty treats that include High Tea, cheese platters and of course, wine tasting from the excellent cellar door.
Nearby accommodation to these wineries:
Holiday Haven Shoalhaven Heads
Holiday Haven Culburra Beach
Kangaroo Valley
Hiding on a quiet road to Kangaroo Valley, this winery and retreat is a small and peaceful 40 acre patch of serenity that thrives on all things organic. The cellar door offers wine and cheese tasting and two self-contained accommodation options ensure a true country escape.
The award-winning Yarrawa Estate has called the geographically unique Upper Kangaroo Valley home for almost 25 years, growing a range of white, red and rosé varietals as well as a collection of homemade ‘jams, nuts and fruit’ to keep your pantry (and tummy) full. Open for sales every day – with tastings on weekends.
Nearby accommodation to the above wineries:
Ulladulla/Bawley Point
A hub of regional activity, overlooking Lake Burrill and the bucolic hills of Milton, this busy boutique estate offers a fresh selection of wine, beer, and cheese – all made onsite – plus hosts monthly markets. Its restaurant also offers a sustainably sourced menu.
Set on 100 acres of farmland, its boutique farmyard vibe (complete with deer, alpacas and sheep) and nearby beach add a unique quality, while its cellar door and stunning industrial barn style tasting hall is ideal for weddings and large gatherings.
Nearby accommodation to the above wineries:
Holiday Haven Bendalong
Holiday Haven Lake Conjola
Holiday Haven Ulladulla
Holiday Haven Burrill Lake
Holiday Haven Lake Tabourie
Jervis Bay Whale Watching Adventures
During the winter months, there are plenty of opportunities to spot whales as they make their thousands-of-kms-long migration north and then return. Jervis Bay is uniquely positioned as an ideal spot to view whales in relatively calm waters away from the open ocean – with its 210km2 marine park a bounty of aquatic life. So it should come as no surprise that whale watch cruise operators choose to base themselves in Huskisson, the main township and mooring spot in Jervis Bay.
Jervis Bay Wild operates all year round, with a fleet that includes a five-level viewing vessel! The team are knowledgeable and your experienced guides will navigate the protected waters while also showcasing the other marine life on offer – including dolphins, seals and penguins. Also Huskisson-based and excellent for whale watching are the crew at Dolphin Watch Jervis Bay – who happen to be just as good at spotting whales during winter as they are at spotting dolphins! With 360 degree views, you’ll never miss a ‘wow’ moment. Or, if you prefer your viewings to be private ones, soak up the luxury in your own yacht with Jervis Bay Sailing Charters.
Nearby accommodation to these 'whale of a time' experiences:
Holiday Haven Currarong
Holiday Haven Huskisson Beach
Holiday Haven White Sands
Holiday Haven Swan Lake
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