Summer in Kangaroo Valley: The Ultimate Weekend Guide

Summer in Kangaroo Valley is a fantastic blend of outdoor adventure, scenic landscapes, and relaxation. This lush valley in New South Wales is a prime destination for those looking to escape into nature.

barranca offers the perfect accommodation to make the most of summer in Kangaroo Valley. From private outdoor showers and stargazing dinners to creek swims, kayaking and farm visits, barranca curates a unique, immersive experience in the heart of nature.

Here’s your guide to an unforgettable summer weekend at barranca Retreats.

Day 1: Settle In and Indulge

Afternoon: Arrival and Cheese Board Welcome

Welcome cheese board and wine can be arranged if requested.

Arrive at barranca Retreats, where you’ll be welcomed by the friendly caretaker Pat and the gentle beauty of the surrounding landscape. And, if requested, a beautifully arranged cheese board will await you in your villa, featuring local cheeses and gourmet bites. Take a moment to relax on your terrace, watch the infamous golden sunset across the rugged escarpment cliffs (- an instagram worthy moment!) and let the quiet embrace of Kangaroo Valley settle in.

Evening: Outdoor Shower and Dinner Under the Stars

Enjoy an outdoor shower surrounded by nature- Jacaranda Villa, Kangaroo Valley

Freshen up with an outdoor shower, a unique touch that lets you connect with the surrounding nature right from your villa. For dinner, you can arrange catering through Caterina KV, an incredible local caterer who will craft a seasonal feast for you to enjoy. End your evening with a glass of wine by the fire pit watching the sky transform into a canopy of stars—a stunning reminder of the valley’s tranquility.  

A handy note, each villa is equipped with a Robert Plumm fire pit along with a generous supply of firewood and kindling, and instructions on how to light the fire. Our Caretaker can also help show you how to light the fire and maintain the fire if need be.

Each villa is equipped with a Robert Plumm fire pit.

Enjoy a game or two of cards (you’ll find a choice of board games and card games in your villa!) before retreating to your luxurious, comfy bed. We provide luxe bed linen, robes and slippers to ensure a comfortable and restful night’s sleep.

Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation in Nature

Morning: Feed the Farm Animals and Creek Swim

Wake to the glorious sound of birdsong. Start your morning with a breakfast of fresh sourdough and eggs, provided by barranca, with a Nespresso coffee on your villa terrace, and enjoy wildlife spotting. Summer in Kangaroo Valley is an excellent time to spot local wildlife, including kangaroos, echidnas, wombats, and native birds. barranca provides a unique opportunity for close encounters with all.

Our farm family are a main attraction at barranca, Kangaroo Valley

After a relaxing breakfast, head off to meet barranca’s Caretaker to help feed the farm animals—a delightful activity for all ages that connects you to the valley’s charming rural side. We have pigs, donkeys, horses and cows, so if you’re an animal lover this is your chance to get up close with our farm family.

A fifteen-minute walk from your villa is an amazing fresh running water creek where you can sit in the natural rock pools or try ‘wild swimming’.  We don’t allow vehicles down the creek and the walk home is all uphill and not for the faint-hearted, so if you would like to be taken down or picked up please ask our Caretaker who would be happy to drive you in the ute.

Amazing fresh running water creek where you can sit in the natural rock pools.

Bring a picnic and enjoy your lunch creekside, letting the calm water and surrounding wilderness set the perfect summer mood.

TIP: Instead of packing your own food, you can organise a grazing board from Caterina KV, who provide divine cheese and charcuterie grazing options.

Afternoon: Kayaking Adventure on the Kangaroo River

For an exhilarating afternoon, head out with Kangaroo Valley Adventure Company, who offer guided kayaking experiences along the scenic Kangaroo River. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or new to kayaking, this experience is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of summer in Kangaroo Valley. The team provides all equipment and ensures a safe, enjoyable experience.

Or if you prefer to completely unwind and stay within the property, treat yourself to a massage right outside your villa, where you can relax amid the peaceful sounds of nature. We will send you a link so you can book your treatment after you make your reservation. The botanical massage experience is tailored to melt away any remaining tension, leaving you fully immersed in the retreat’s calm and soothing energy.

Kangaroo Valley Adventure Company Kayaking

Evening: Al Fresco Dining and Stargazing

For dinner, why not cook a casual meal in your villa or bring back some local produce from the village to barbeque? The villas at barranca are equipped with everything you need for an intimate meal. Dine al fresco, savoring the valley’s serene ambiance as dusk falls, and then lay back for some stargazing. With no city lights to dim the night, the skies above barranca come alive in a stunning display.

Day 3: Exploring Kangaroo Valley’s Scenic Wonders

Morning: Fitzroy Falls and Village Stroll

On your final day, take a scenic drive to Fitzroy Falls, a spectacular 80-meter waterfall surrounded by lush bushland and walking trails. The lookout points offer breathtaking views, and the trails let you get up close to native flora and fauna.

Instagram-worthy escarpment views.

Afternoon: Kangaroo Valley Village and Farewell

On your way back, stop by Kangaroo Valley Village to explore its charming cafes and boutiques. Grab lunch at The General Cafe, known for its fresh organic sourdough bread, great coffee and changing menu of the best local produce, . The Friendly Inn Hotel is also a local gem and a must-visit. Known for its laid-back vibe and scenic beer garden with panoramic views of the valley, it’s the perfect spot to kick back after a day of exploring.

The Friendly Inn Kangaroo Valley

barranca’s team will ensure every detail of your weekend is just as you envision. From customised activities to dining arrangements, your stay here is more than just accommodation—it’s a tailor-made escape into nature’s beauty. Spend a weekend here, and you’ll leave feeling recharged, inspired, and with a little piece of Kangaroo Valley in your heart.