We arrive on the New South Wales south coast into the small town of Berry. The town is situated on the Shoalhaven Coast stretch between Kiama and Nowra about an hour and a half drive to the south of Sydney, so a nice day trip for Sydney-siders looking for some time away from the hustle and bustle.
I have to admit that I have never visited the area south of Wollongong and I’m stunned by the coastline, hinterland and farming areas within the region. This place is stunning and has great appeal for those who want to relax or explore the region.
Our first afternoon we walk through the township of Berry and it’s packed with day trippers. It’s a Sunday afternoon, on a beautiful Spring day so why wouldn’t you be out and about enjoying the sun and warm conditions.
The main street and many of the side roads still retain the original cottages which ooze old world charm. Even the buildings that have been renovated over the years still have the facades to match the original construction styles.
We are camped in the Berry showgrounds which is central to the township and very much a part of the charm of the area. The Berry Showgrounds grand stand sits proudly watching over the centre arena where various sports have been played for many years.
After our initial walk to become more acquainted with the township we head out to Seven Mile Beach for a stroll and some time cooling our feet in the ocean. We also make our way up the coastline to Gerroa, Gerringong and Werri Beach to cap off a great afternoon of sightseeing. What is amazing is that the coastal towns are surrounded by farming land that is lush and green with many of the old farm houses replaced with modern homes that could well win architecture awards in any urban area.
Our second day in Berry sees us heading back up the coast to explore Kiama, Shellharbour, Port Kembla and Wollongong before heading on to the Sea Cliff Bridge. This is the bridge used in many car adds that hugs the coastal cliffs around Clifton and Coalcliff. It’s been a bucket list item for me to drive this bridge so we did, in both directions and then stopped and walked its spans in both directions. Happy Dave!
After two days exploring the coastline we decide its time to head into the hinterland. A trip through Jamberoo to Robertson where a Cheese Factory beckons us to stop and try some of their wares. We leave laden with samples of deliciousness that are enjoyed that night for supper.
We continue the loop through Fitzroy Falls for some bush walking. The countryside is breathtaking in more than one way. Visibly stunning but also a lot of up and down trail walking to see the falls from the best vantage points. After a decent amount of time on the trail we call it quits as the stepped path is getting more difficult for this one and a half eyed walker to manage but not before seeing the falls from many angles. There has been a lack of rainfall in the area so the falls are not as spectacular as they would be in full flow. Nonetheless they are worth the effort.
We head back to the car then drive onto Kangaroo Valley via the Hampden Bridge. A great scenic route with a good number of side roads leading to lookouts and places of interest.
Our last day in Berry is spent touring the coastline down as far as Sussex Inlet and around Jervis Bay. It’s quiet in this area and a great place for retirement, fishing and generally unwinding from normal life. Again this is a pretty area to tour but there are a few “gotchas” that are annoying. There is signage in Crookhaven, the name should have given it away, saying that there is a lighthouse however it fails to tell you that the lighthouse is no longer in operation and is basically decommissioned and abandoned to the vandals that visit the area. The whole top section of the lighthouse has been removed. The walk to get to it is up and down but at least provides some good vantage points to enjoy the views around to Penguin Head.
All in all its been a great spot to stop and take in the area. We will definitely have to come back and explore some more.
Stoneworx Photography 