As the weekend approached, we embarked on a journey that promised both adventure and relaxation. Our destination: the picturesque coastal town of Kiama, followed by the serene landscapes of Jervis Bay, Port Kembla and the lush, verdant Kangaroo Valley. This long weekend escape, less than two hours south of Sydney, allowed us to unwind in nature, dine on culinary delights and get behind the wheel of Mazda’s new hybrid SUV, the CX-80.
Day 1: Kiama
Our journey began on a sunny Thursday afternoon, driving south from Marrickville in our red CX-80 Mazda, the gleaming new vehicle had luxurious tan suede interiors and leather seats putting our comfort levels high for the trip. The 131-kilometre drive was a breeze, and we soon found ourselves in the charming coastal town of Kiama.
Upon arrival, we pulled up at Silica Restaurant, perched on Surf Beach. The restaurant has an outstanding view of the surf beach and is unsurprisingly booked regularly for weddings. We savoured a dozen oysters and a chilled chardonnay, basking in the beauty of Kiama Beach framed by magnificent Norfolk trees.
Kiama’s iconic Blowhole is worth exploring here just to witness the force of the ocean sending water spraying high into the air through a natural rock formation. The spectacle, combined with the coastal walk to Gerringong, is a perfect introduction to the area’s natural beauty.
Day 2: Jervis Bay
The following morning, we continued our journey to Jervis Bay, where we stayed in a weatherboard beach shack just meters from the white sandy shores. Nestled within the Booderee National Park, Jervis Bay is a haven for nature lovers. Our first stop was Murray’s Beach, renowned for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters.
From Murray’s Beach, we ventured deeper into the national park, marvelling at the diverse plants and wildlife. The park’s entry fee of $20 per car is a small price to pay for access to such unspoiled natural beauty. We were fortunate enough to spot a pair of rare king black parrots with yellow tails, fossicking for gumnuts —a truly magical moment.
Day 3: Kangaroo Valley
Our adventure continued as we drove through the scenic landscapes of Shoalhaven, Kiama, and Gerringong, finally arriving in Kangaroo Valley. This tranquil retreat, with its lush green mountains and rivers, offered a stark contrast to the frenetic streets of Sydney.
Jamberoo Valley Farm, where we stayed for two nights, had contemporary cottages designed to showcase the breathtaking views of the valley. The farm’s lush greenery and tranquil ambiance provided the perfect setting for a restorative escape. Each morning, we were greeted with trays of freshly baked goods, a delightful touch that made us feel at home.
In Kangaroo Valley, we visited many of the quaint villages scattered throughout the region all providing charming glimpses into rural Australian life, with cozy cafes and artisanal markets. Each day we covered a lot of ground and it was comforting that the CX-80 has a five-star ANCAP safety rating and numerous Mazda i-Activsense driver-supporting safety technologies.
Fishing and Culinary Delights
One of the highlights of our trip was a fishing excursion with George, a Cornish fisherman who has lived on the South Coast for over a decade. George’s business, aptly named Fishing With A Local, offers immersive experiences in sustainable fishing practices. We joined him for a sunset beach fishing trip, where he shared his extensive knowledge and taught us the nuances of baiting, casting, and catching fish.
Standing barefoot in the lapping waves, we cast our lines into the sea with growing enthusiasm. Our efforts were rewarded with a bucket full of whiting, enough to end our day with a sense of pride and a newfound appreciation for the art of fishing.
Back in Kiama, we indulged in a culinary experience at Miss Arda Meze and Bar, a restaurant led by a former head chef of Ottolenghi in London. The dishes, infused with Middle Eastern flavours, were a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Each plate was a symphony of spices and ingredients, creating a dining experience that was nothing short of extraordinary.
Final Day: Coledale
On our last day, we packed up and headed back towards Sydney, making a stop in the coastal town of Coledale. Nestled below the mountains of Stanwell National Park, Coledale boasts a fabulous beach and arguably the world’s best fish and chips shop, Rosie’s. Owned by a British man named Ben, Rosie’s offers sustainably caught local fish and hand-cut chips wrapped traditionally in paper.
We ordered a $50 platter of grilled anthias fish, an Asian delicacy, accompanied by triple-cooked chips and homemade tartare sauce. The meal was a fitting end to our gastronomic journey, highlighting the region’s commitment to fresh, local produce.
The allure of Kiama, Jervis Bay, and Kangaroo Valley lies not only in their scenic beauty but also in their proximity to our home in Sydney, reminding us that sometimes, the best escapes are just a drive away.
The luxurious CX-80 Mazda had provided comfort and connectivity throughout the journey, enhancing our experience at every turn. Our roadtrip was even more peaceful because there’s no roaring engine sounds when you drive using electric power.
From the pristine beaches of Jervis Bay to the tranquil retreats of Kangaroo Valley, this long weekend getaway offered a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
Robyn was a guest of Mazda Australia and Jamberoo Valley Farm.
You can also watch Robyn’s review of the Mazda CX-60 below.
