From kayaking and wild swimming to visiting wineries and waterfalls – here are 20 of the best things to do in Kangaroo Valley.

A Kangaroo Valley list of things to do has all the allure of a Choose Your Own Adventure book. The valley framed by the sandstone walls of the Illawarra Escarpment is a patchwork quilt of farms, rainforests, lush rivers and bountiful soils that have lured many city-dwellers in need of a tree change to make a move to Kangaroo Valley. But the NSW region remains something of a hidden gem when it comes to holiday locations within reach from Sydney.

Here, you’ll find the small South Coast village has plenty to offer visitors in search of nature experiences, good food and wine, or even a secret skinny dip. Here are 20 top ideas of things to do in the Kangaroo Valley.

1. Explore the waters via kayak or canoe

One of the best ways to explore the valley is by kayak or canoe thanks to the town’s proximity to Kangaroo River. Paddling brings you up close to nature and allows you to glide through otherwise hard-to-access territory.

Kangaroo Valley Outdoors and Kangaroo Valley Adventure Company are your best options for exploring the pristine waters, spectacular scenery, rainforest and abundant wildlife in Kangaroo Valley. Both companies know the lay of the land and river and will guide guests to places for platypus spotting and secret spots that offer a very different perspective on the idyllic charm of Kangaroo Valley.

2. Learn about caring of Country at a corroboree

Gangagruwan is the Indigenous name for Kangaroo Valley. Profits from the Gangagruwan Corroboree at Winderong Farm go back into supporting Gadhungal Marring, a local Indigenous-owned business. A corroboree is an ancient cultural practice that has been performed by the Traditional Owners of the land for thousands of years.

The gathering includes dance and song that honours the history of their ancestors and a demonstration that explains the uses of various artefacts. The corroborees are held regularly at Winderong Farm and includes a lunch of native foods. Make a weekend of it and book one of many great places to stay in Kangaroo Valley to suit a diverse range of budgets, from Airbnbs to cutesy cottages.

3. Yarrawa Estate

While the Kangaroo Valley region might not be synonymous with heavy-hitting wineries, Yarrawa Estate Vineyard makes a case for discovering wines to savour near the NSW South Coast. Yarrawa, or a ‘windy place’, is the only winery in Kangaroo Valley proper. It’s named after a nearby state forest and abutted by the escarpments on picturesque Scotts Road.

Sip your way through top drops at the cellar door such as chambourcin, verdelho and chardonnay, followed by some robust reds like cabernet merlot or a crisp sparkling shiraz.

The highly fertile volcanic and alluvial soils of Yarrawa Estate aren’t only good for producing wines. There are also fruit trees and groves dedicated to macadamia nuts, pecans and walnuts. Visit the estate to learn more.

4. Go wild swimming

Worried about where you’ll cool down at an inland enclave like Kangaroo Valley? Leave coastal waves behind and open your mind to the brave new world of ‘wild swimming’. Flat Rock Waterhole is a great place to seek shelter from the sun and lounge in the shade. This natural swimming pool encompasses a large open area with water running from two directions. There is deeper water for swimming and floating, and a smaller rock pool for kids.

Another of the area’s most famous swimming spots is in the heart of Kangaroo Valley right under the famous Hampden Bridge. There is a sturdy sandbank to set up your stuff, and a 70-metre natural pool (swing rope and all) to enjoy. Yeehar.

5. Visit the Hampden Bridge

When the Hampden Bridge first opened in 1898 it served as a great milestone for change in the Shoalhaven region. The region evolved from separated settlements into a gateway to the Southern Highlands and the South Coast and the bridge became a vital link in facilitating the continued viability of Kangaroo Valley.

Taking a happy snap of the bridge is one of the best things to do in Kangaroo Valley. Today the heritage-listed attraction serves as a remarkable lesson in Victorian engineering and is the largest surviving wooden suspension bridge in the country.

6. Pick up picnic supplies at The General Cafe

The General Cafe is literally a one-stop shop: a cafe, supermarket, bakery and newsagent all rolled into one. A stop here ranks highly on a list of the ultimate Kangaroo Valley things to do.

Stop at the newsagent next door which has diversified to include picnic supplies such as dukkha, chilli pesto, pickles and fresh cheese alongside your magazine needs. The General Cafe serves bountiful breakfasts. Check the chalkboard for specials: anything from fresh cheese toasties to Korean style wok fried eggs. You must visit Mrs Bread’s pop-up bakery next door to pick up a loaf of organic sourdough, too.

7. Visit Fitzroy Falls

Fitzroy Falls is one of many natural landmarks worth visiting near to the Kangaroo Valley. A journey here will be rewarded by way of wildlife, walks, wild swimming and plenty of local flora and fauna. If you’re someone who enjoys chasing waterfalls, you will be rewarded with an easy five-minute stroll from the car park.

Take a detour through the visitor centre on your way and learn about local history, wildlife and birdwatching, or undertake one of the Aboriginal Cultural Walks that depart from the facility. Fitzroy Falls tumbles over 80 metres into the bushland of Morton National Park below. It’s named after Sir Charles Fitzroy, the Governor of NSW who visited here during his tenure in the 1850s. You should also up your step count along the Three Views Walk.

8. Find a carpet of wildflowers

Are you a fan of native flora? The East Rim Wildflower walking track stretches 1.25 kilometres from the Visitor Centre to Warrawong lookout, with a total return length of 6.7 kilometres. In spring, the self-guided stroll is home to diverse florals, native plants and trees.

The West Rim walking track (3.5 kilometres) is a great introduction to dramatic gorges and waterfalls, pristine eucalypt forests and lush greenery.

The walk extends down to Yarrunga lookout and the gentle path continues through groves of grey-green gums, grassy woodlands and rainforest where the soundtrack of screeching birds is turned up to full volume. The seasonal wildflowers embroidered around the path make this worth a visit on its own.

9. Explore The Village Green Nursery

Blink and you’ll miss this charming boutique nursery, found hidden behind Kangaroo Valley’s main strip of shops. Green thumbs will love getting lost in the different sections at The Village Green Nursery, which have been carefully curated into themes.

Take your time to stop and consider each of the edible plants, natives, tube stocks, ornamentals and more on offer. The staff are super helpful and will happily point you toward the section of flowers that bloom with the seasons. The flowers, in hues that range from lilac to pale pink with lacy edges, will definitely catch your eye.

10. Visit Grandpa’s Shed (and other vintage delights)

Want to get the Escape to the Country look happening back in your city dwelling? Sift through the treasures at Grandpa’s Shed, located just down the road from Fitzroy Falls. This rustic old warehouse space houses every vintage treasure and trove imaginable. From old farming equipment and glassware to costume jewellery and hand-hewn axes.

While Valley Vintage might not boast the same scale and heritage factor as Grandpa’s, the equally adorable antique store is conveniently positioned on the main street of Kangaroo Valley. Fossick in the store for vintage bags, retro furniture, gifts and trinkets. Shopaholics should also make their way to the whimsical Nostalgia Factory, Halcyon Books & Records and The Hive.

11. Venture a little further afield

One of the best things about Kangaroo Valley is its proximity to some of the most beautiful towns in NSW. If you’re embarking on a road trip, there are many places to explore near Kangaroo Valley. Nearby Nowra is known for its world-famous rock-climbing spots, boasting more than 1500 different climbs just 10 minutes from the town centre.

Bowral, Moss Vale, Robertson and Mittagong are also gems of the Southern Highlands where you will find spectacular waterfalls and national parks, cool-climate wines and an array of impressive dining options. Whale watching and dolphin cruises are only 45 minutes away at Huskisson in Jervis Bay. And Berry is another must-stop, with its story-book architecture, picturesque valleys and mountain backdrop.

12. Wildlife spotting in Kangaroo Valley

You’ll be able to tick off plenty of must-see Australian wildlife while visiting Bendeela Recreational Area, which happens to be one of the most popular places to camp in Kangaroo Valley.  Kangaroos, wallabies and wombats are also likely to make cameos in Morton National Park.

Seeing Australian animals in the wild is a bit like watching a Planet Earth documentary, but without the narration from Sir David Attenborough. The animals are often a lot more active in winter as they tend to retreat to the shade during summer.

 13. Try local treats at Sweet As Kangaroo Valley

There will typically be a hushed silence when sweet-toothed visitors first enter the Sweet As store. To be fair, one needs a bit of advance planning and strategizing to decide on what to stock up on. Savvy locals have their favourites. Nothing conjures up childhood memories more than translucent lollies, squares of caramel and rich hand-made chocolates. Grab some gum for the remainder of your road trip. A tin of lollies as a souvenir. And a scoop of artisan gelato. It’s one of the best foodie experiences in Kangaroo Valley.

14. Improve your handicap at Kangaroo Valley Golf

Make sure you pack your best tweed pants so you look the part at Kangaroo Valley Golf. Chasing a little white ball around the beautifully manicured grounds is a novel way to appreciate the countryside of the Kangaroo Valley. Want to test yourself? The Jack Newtown-designed course has been designed for golfers of all different levels and the eighth hole in particular is quite the challenge.

The views across the valley from the ninth hole are also worth the price of admission. As is the possibility of seeing mobs of kangaroos bounding around the course. Feeling thirsty? Head to the onsite bar and restaurant, one of the best places for a beer in Kangaroo Valley.

15. Gather for a festival

Expect a bit of beard envy when attending at the Kangaroo Valley Folk Festival. A beard is a prerequisite for a balladeer. Comfort yourself about your own lack of facial hair by trying to fit in with those festivalgoers clad in plaid and wearing Blundstones. That’s enough of a flex.

This family-friendly event, just two hours from Sydney or Canberra, has food, wine and a variety of accommodation on offer. The weekend is not just about music, though that’s the main draw. The program also includes poetry, dance, meditation, craft, ukelele jams and entertainment for the kids.

While it’s hard to whittle down the best Kangaroo Valley festivals, Coq Fest (a Bastille Day party in the bush) is a highlight.

16. Visit the Kangaroo Valley Farmers Market

Support the farmers, growers and producers who work so hard to provide us with fresh produce at the Kangaroo Valley Farmers Market. You will see how food has roots in the local community here at the markets, which connects growers with the consumers who really value their hard work on the second Sunday of each month from 9am to 1pm.

A visit to the market helps support the farmers who are pivoting to more sustainable practices. For visitors to Kangaroo Valley, the farmers’ market has somewhat of a festival vibe. Nibble on a crunchy radish. Marvel at ruby red raspberries. Share your delight at the bunches of cartoon-green spinach. And select just-picked produce to whip up a feast back at your  accommodation.

17. Go on a horse-riding adventure

Regardless of whether you’re a skilled equestrian or a novice who wants to learn how to canter comfortably, horse riding in the Kangaroo Valley is a popular way to get about.

Trot along single file along a well-worn trail with the high plateau of the Illawarra escarpment looming in the background. Or go for a long ride and find your stride at a leisurely pace clip-clopping through the countryside. Kangaroo Valley Horses offers riding instruction, riding lessons, equestrian clinics and camps and small group trail rides. Giddy up.

18. Canoes, Cool Climate Wines & Canapes

Go completely off-grid for an immersive excursion with Experience Nature, a bespoke small-group touring company that connects people with place and produce. Entrepreneur Amanda Fry has curated a roster of personalised getaways and luxury bespoke escapes that are tailored to individuals’ interests and hopes and dreams for their holiday. Glide downstream in a custom-built double-canoe rig as part of the Canoes, Cool Climate Wines & Canapes package from Tallowa Dam down the Kangaroo River. It’s one of the most romantic things you can do in the Kangaroo Valley. Birdwatchers will also love studying the birdlife, glass of bubbles in hand.

19. The Kangaroo Valley Craft Beer & BBQ Festival

The Friendly Inn is the home base for those interested in getting a taste of the Kangaroo Valley at the annual Kangaroo Valley Craft Beer & BBQ Festival. The Kangaroo Valley Craft Beer & BBQ Festival is one of the best Kangaroo Valley festivals to hand. Beer. And BBQ.

What’s not to like? There is an extensive selection of craft beers and ciders to sample at the festival, which boasts a BBQ Battle where the Lord (or Lady) of the Grill will be crowned and butchery demonstrations, too. There’s live music, cooking stalls and even pig races to up the ante on the oink. Need a plan B? Buy a festival bus pass so you can get to and from your Kangaroo Valley accommodation.

20. Have a picnic at the Pioneer Village Museum

Take a self-guided tour of Kangaroo Valley to learn about the history of nearby Hampden Bridge or visit the dinky Pioneer Museum right next door.

Have a picnic on the grounds of the property which is dotted with buildings that are replicas of the original buildings from the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries.

Visit the dairy, school house, blacksmith’s forge and settler’s cottage to get a feel of what life was like in that era. There are designated walking tracks that crisscross the 7-hectare site, which includes historical displays about Kangaroo Valley.