17 of the best places to stay in the Kangaroo Valley

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Here is the ultimate guide to accommodation in the Kangaroo Valley to suit a diverse range of tastes and budgets.

The best Kangaroo Valley accommodation is designed with the destination in mind. Be it a boutique hotel or a winery that will allow for a fabulous foodie weekend, here is our guide to the best places to stay in the Kangaroo Valley that will keep you ensconced in the NSW countryside.

1. Braebrook

Home cooks will find themselves filled with genuine inspiration in the kitchen at Kangaroo Valley Luxury Farmhouse Braebrook . The kitchen in the charming original weatherboard cottage has a sunny nook for breakfast, and spills out into a dining area and wraparound deck.

the classic living room interior of Braebrook, Kangaroo Valley
Braebrook is exudes rustic chic beauty.

The interiors are like a work of art that makes every moment feel special. Sit outside and admire a magnolia tree said to be Australia’s oldest. Lounge, limbs askew, on the day bed and stroll around the manicured gardens plotting your permanent escape to the country. The house accommodates nine people, and has a gas-burning stove, a large outdoor area and a barbecue.

the dining area at Braebrook, Kangaroo Valley
The dining room even evokes a rustic yet sophisticated appeal.

Best for: Staying put in an idyllic and tranquil setting.
Address: 5 Battys Road, Upper Kangaroo River

2. Wildes Boutique Hotel

It’s Wildes by name, and Wildes by nature. This dreamy 23-room boutique is a cosy little nest in the actual village of Kangaroo Valley (population 850), in the heart of the Southern Highlands.

the property exterior of Wildes Boutique Hotel
Wildes Boutique Hotel is made of sandstone.

Built around a main sandstone building, the Wildes Boutique Hotel nods to the natural beauty that surrounds it. The pooch-friendly hotel has a pool, which is a pleasant spot to relax on a sunny afternoon and a dedicated dining room.

There are also a range of versatile function spaces for families and friends celebrating a special occasion.

an outdoor pool with a yellow umbrella on the side at Wildes Boutique Hotel
Relax by the pool in the afternoons.

Best for: Those who want a romantic weekend away in Kangaroo Valley.
Address: 152 Moss Vale Road, Kangaroo Valley

3. Kangaroo Valley Golf & Country Retreat

It’s by design that golf courses are usually found in stunning locations. And if you are looking to book accommodation in Kangaroo Valley with a golf course then the Kangaroo Valley Golf & Country Retreat should be top of mind.

the golf course area at KV Golf & Country Retreat
The spacious golf course offers picturesque Kangaroo Valley views.

Choose between one-and two-bedroom cabins and villas, a two- or three-bedroom Deluxe Villa or a state-of-the-art two- or three-bedroom Superior Deluxe Villa. Walking around the carpeted hillocks with the towering escarpments all around is undeniably beautiful.

the dining and kitchen at Kangaroo Valley Golf & Country Retreat
Kangaroo Valley Golf & Country Retreat can make a perfect home base.

Best for: A golfing holiday with great views across Kangaroo Valley.
Address: 391 Mt Scanzi Rd, Kangaroo Valley

4. Barranca

Barranca is all about the elements. Located at the edge of an escarpment, bathed in a honeyed light in the early afternoon, the four architecturally designed villas are peppered around a private 404-hectare property in the picturesque Kangaroo Valley.

a top view of people gathering outside Barranca in Kangaroo Valley
Barranca blurs the lines between indoors and outdoors. (Image: Somethingswild_creative)

The aesthetically rich villas are made from a mosaic of native Australian timbers and upcycled sandstone and provide the perfect place to kick back after a day hiking to nearby Fitzroy Falls or exploring the rolling farmland. Nobody ever stumbles across this Kangaroo Valley accommodation, which makes it feel like a secluded oasis.

a woman taking a shower outdoors at Barranca
Bathe in peace and solitude at Barranca. (Image: Somethingswild_creative)

Best for: Dashing off to explore the countryside and then retreating to your villa.

Address: 408 Bunkers Hill Road, Kangaroo Valley

5. Black Star

Black Star is the kind of place that inspires guests to sit back and breathe deeply. The luxury accommodation in the Kangaroo Valley is framed by a backdrop of the rugged ridges of the Barrengarry Mountain. And a stay here provides a taste of what it must be like to engineer a treechange.

the elegant interior of Black Star, Kangaroo Valley
Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the views.

The accommodation is a contemporary take on a traditional barn with soaring ceilings and windows for walls that frame the views of the valley below and the mountain beyond.

The idea of the luxury dwelling, which sits on two hectares, is to choose your own adventure according to the seasons. Sit by the log fire in winter or swan around by the pool over summer.

an outdoor pool with valley views at Black Star, Kangaroo Valley
Soak up scenic valley views from the pool.

Best for: Entertaining friends in the chef’s kitchen.
Address: Paddington Lane, Kangaroo Valley.

6. Holiday Haven

There are beds of tended gardens filled with native flora and a large rampage of forest all around for those who want to fully enjoy the local foliage in Kangaroo Valley. Holiday Haven attracts a steady flow of visitors who are not inclined to rush off elsewhere; it’s here in the green folds of the valley they want to be.

the cabin exterior of Holiday Haven, Kangaroo Valley
Holiday Haven is equipped with creature comforts.

The staff are sociable and friendly, and the accommodation is diverse enough to suit a range of visitors and budgets. You will find couples strolling in solitude. Extended families taking advantage of the BBQ facilities. And adventurous teens paddling up and down the nearby Kangaroo River. Holiday Haven is one of the best spots for camping in the Kangaroo Valley, too.

an old couple standing by the river bank at Holiday Haven, Kangaroo Valley
Disconnect and reconnect with nature at Holiday Haven.

Best for: Families who appreciate having affordable, comfortable cabins near a playground.
Address: 5 Moss Vale Road, Kangaroo Valley

7. Amaroo Valley Springs

Accessing wilderness walks from the front door of your villa at Amaroo Valley Springs is one of the greatest luxuries of a stay at the Kangaroo Valley accommodation. Follow the, ahem, udderly cute cow-shaped signs to this five-star adults-only retreat sitting pretty on 64 hectares of farmland.

the scenic Kangaroo Valley views from Amaroo Valley Springs
Revel in spectacular views at Amaroo Valley Springs.

All up, there are three boutique villas that sleep four adults and look to nature for ideas, forms and materials that enhance the living environment. The villas are both farm stay and luxury retreat in equal parts.

an outdoor tub at Amaroo Valley Springs, Kangaroo Valley
Dip in the outdoor tub while admiring the nature.

Best for: Birdwatchers who will appreciate spotting lyrebirds, owls, eagles, parrots and swallows.
Address: 260 Bunkers Hill Road, Kangaroo Valley

8. Crystal Creek Meadows

Hardcore #cottagecore fans will love the four luxury Kangaroo Valley cottages at Crystal Creek Meadows , which feel like you’ve stepped into a Country Style shoot. The elegant cottages have well-placed lamps for reading. Sofas to sink into. Log fires. Country-chic kitchens. And lavender-scented gardens to look out onto. Forget digital fun. Think board games, charades and apples in the orchard.  The cottages are an essay on subtle hues so as not to compete with the colour from the curtains of greenery all around.

Best for: Conscious travellers who appreciate the Advanced Ecotourism Certified rating.
Address: 1655 Kangaroo Valley Road

9. Aframe Kangaroo Valley

Soaking in a hot tub under a vast ceiling of stars is a vibe. And it’s one that screams ‘take me to the country or lose me forever’. This romantic retreat manages to nurture the nostalgia of the 1970s Aframe with furniture that retains some of the textures of the surrounding forest.

the cabin exterior of Aframe Kangaroo Valley
The cosy Aframe Kangaroo Valley cabin is nestled in nature. (Image: Hayley Rafton)

The Ben Gray Architect-designed retreat was constructed from telegraph poles that once lined a suburban Sydney street. The seven-metre tall windows on the north side of the house face the escarpment and have the wow factor of waterfall views.

Aframe interiors in the Kangaroo Valley
This romantic retreat manages to nurture nostalgia. (Image: Janneke Storm)

Best for: Engaging the senses both indoors and outdoors. And, hands down, hanging in the hot tub.
Address: Barrengarry

10. Sky Ridge

Sky Ridge is part of the carefully curated collection of homes managed by Kangaroo Valley Escapes. It’s just the place to perch and feel pampered while on a road trip to the NSW wilderness. The two-storey black barn is a marvel of steel, glass and polished concrete with elevated views over the rumpled folds of the valley.

the living room interior of Sky Ridge, Kangaroo Valley
Sky Ridge features an industrial chic aesthetic.

Wildlife at the property is abundant with echidnas, birds, possums, kangaroos, wallabies and wombats all likely to make cameos during your stay. Architect Alexander Michael designed the off-grid home, which sleeps eight, on the slopes of Mt Scanzi, and it abuts a pocket of pristine bushland.

a bonfire setup with nature views at Sky Ridge, Kangaroo Valley
Spend laid-back afternoons by the fire at Sky Ridge.

Best for: Those dedicated to doing a digital detox in the country.
Address: 679a Mt Scanzi Rd, Kangaroo Valley.

11. Scribbles Cottage

Who doesn’t love a bit of #cottagecore? The aesthetic that celebrates simple living is so popular it was one of the Macquarie Dictionary’s words of the year in 2020. Despite being in the heart of Kangaroo Valley village, the cute-as Scribbles Cottage is whisper quiet and smells of expensive scents and candles.

setting up a bonfire outside Scribbles Cottage
Get toasty warm by the fire pit.

Curl up near the log fire while listening to the soundtrack of the Kangaroo River rushing past.  Or Channel Donna Hay and pull together a grazing table to enjoy on the large deck which boasts beautiful river views. The light-filled renovated original settler’s cottage is just a short hop away from the iconic Hampden Bridge.

a woman dipping in the tub while reading a book
Curl up in the tub with a book in hand.

Best for: Group getaways for those who like to entertain.
Address: 15 Cullen Crescent, Kangaroo Valley

12. The Dairy at Broger’s End

You might expect Kevin McCloud, the host of Grand Designs, to round the corner and start narrating the back story of these renovated milking sheds, which have been transformed into luxury accommodation using reclaimed and recycled materials.

the property exterior of The Dairy, Kangaroo Valley
Lavender-purple wisteria beautifully blooms outside The Dairy at Broger’s End.

Insta-braggers should definitely film the moment when you fling open the French doors to the al fresco dining area, which is covered by pretty clusters of lavender-purple wisteria.

The Dairy at Broger’s End , which was one of the OG dairy milking sheds in the Upper Kangaroo River, sleeps up to four people and includes a fireplace, outdoor bathtub and well-appointed kitchen. Complete the country experience by collecting free range eggs from the chickens for breakfast.

a traditional water pump with sink outside The Dairy at Broger’s End
Maximise your country experience with a relaxing bath.

Best for: Families who want to experience life on a working farm with cows and chickens.
Address: 4 Battys Road, Upper Kangaroo Valley

13. Robinson’s Run

Planning to elope in Kangaroo Valley with 10 of your closest friends in tow? You will have the run of Robinson’s Run when you book out this contemporary country manor for the weekend. Located on a crook of a creek that runs through the property, Robinson’s Run is an ode to the indoor-outdoor lifestyle that is so suited to the Australian climate.

the exterior property view of Robinson’s Run
Robinson’s Run is an Instagrammable spot to cosy up for the weekend.

The different living areas all open up to the elements, making for a stay that is so Instagrammable that it has its own hashtag. Deploy #robinsonsrunkv when you’re bunkered down in this luxury holiday accommodation in Budgong, Kangaroo Valley.

scenic views from the property interior of Robinson’s Run
Seek solitude, privacy and wellness at this ultra-stylish abode.

Best for: Keen walkers who want to explore the trails that follow the course of the creeks on the property.
Address: 165 Moss Vale Road, Kangaroo Valley

14. Lake David Luxury Lake House

Planning a 50th birthday party? You will have room for your entire entourage to stay when you book the luxury Lake David Luxury Lake House , which looks out over Lake Yurrunga. The 16-hectare finger of land is just 20 minutes outside of the village of Kangaroo Valley.

the pool area at Lake David Luxury Lake House
Luxuriate by the pool at Lake David Luxury Lake House.

Call Henry Clive Caravan Bar to get the party started while you take advantage of the fully equipped country kitchen for inspiration. The property, which is about two and a half hours from both Sydney and Canberra, has a full-sized tennis court, heated pool, eight-person jacuzzi, spa, sauna and games room.

the bedroom with a views at Lake David Luxury Lake House
Lake David Luxury Lake House oozes countryside charm.

Best for: Lovers of nature: the real star of the show here is the glistening lake and towering escarpment.

Address: 903B Jacks Corner Road, Kangaroo Valley

15. Budderoo Guesthouse @ Terrewah Farm

Kangaroo Valley is a paradise for foodies. And the owners of this working farm have created paddock-to-plate experiences that read like a love letter to the land. A stay at Terrewah Farm is all about education with everything from courses on home composting to soil testing.

the interior of Budderoo Guesthouse @ Terrewah Farm with scenic views
Check into Budderoo Guesthouse @ Terrewah Farm for great valley views.

Although there are many on-farm experiences on offer, you can also just bunker down in Budderoo House, an architecturally designed gem that has breathtaking views of the valley. Carrialoo is also located on the farm and is crisscrossed with bush trails, making it one of the best Kangaroo Valley Airbnbs.

the well-lit property exterior of Budderoo Guesthouse @ Terrewah Farm with scenic views
This sleek accommodation in Kangaroo Valley is an architecturally-designed gem.

Best for: Those who want to learn more about where their food is from.
Address: 293 Tallowa Dam Road, Kangaroo Valley

16. Cally Mill Farm

A stay at Cally Mill Farm checks a lot of boxes when it comes to weekends away in the Kangaroo Valley. The brand-new architecturally designed four-bedroom, five-bathroom home sits on a 20-hectare parcel of land that is oriented toward those valley views. This isn’t a run-of-the-mill farm stay.

the property exterior of Cally Mill Farm, Kangaroo Valley
Cally Mill Farm is exceptionally positioned in a scenic location within the valley.

The luxury retreat has a central living area with vaulted ceilings and a master bedroom with its own wing that even has its own private outdoor bathtub. A getaway to this luxury farm stay in the Kangaroo Valley ensures a healthy dose of fresh country air with a wealth of nearby landmarks within walking distance.

the outdoor fireplace and seating area at Cally Mill Farm, Kangaroo Valley
Sit by the outdoor fireplace for a dose of fresh country air.

Best for: Finding peace in the countryside away from the chaos of the city.
Address: 155 Tallowa Dam Rd, Kangaroo Valley

17. Kangaroo Valley Glenmack Park

Travellers can stay in a caravan, self-contained cabin or villa or camping site when they book a stay at Kangaroo Valley Glenmack Park . The campground is near the village of Kangaroo Valley, with great restaurants and cosy pubs on the doorstep.

people jumping into the pool at Glenmack Park, Kangaroo Valley
Plunge into the pool at Glenmack Park.

City slicker families will love the fact their children can pet the resident animals such as Harvey the horse, Mikey the pony and alpacas Bambi, Yoda and Chewy. The park has a resort-size swimming pool, mini golf and large children’s playground too.

guests petting farm animals at Glenmack Park, Kangaroo Valley
Say hi to the resident farm animals at Glenmack Park.

Best for: A family getaway for the weekend.
Address: 215 Moss Vale Road, Kangaroo Valley

Not sure what to do in the area? Here are the best things to do in the Kangaroo Valley.
Carla Grossetti
Carla Grossetti avoided accruing a HECS debt by accepting a cadetship with News Corp. at the age of 18. After completing her cadetship at The Cairns Post Carla moved south to accept a position at The Canberra Times before heading off on a jaunt around Canada, the US, Mexico and Central America. During her career as a journalist, Carla has successfully combined her two loves – of writing and travel – and has more than two decades experience switch-footing between digital and print media. Carla’s CV also includes stints at delicious., The Sydney Morning Herald, and The Australian, where she specialises in food and travel. Carla also based herself in the UK where she worked at Conde Nast Traveller, and The Sunday Times’ Travel section before accepting a fulltime role as part of the pioneering digital team at The Guardian UK. Carla and has been freelancing for Australian Traveller for more than a decade, where she works as both a writer and a sub editor.
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Why the Central Coast is a foodie mecca

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare
From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast , however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours . Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food
Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed . Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm
Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s .

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong
Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics . Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics
See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food
Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare . One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

cocktail at Bells At Killcare
Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.