Whether you’ve travelled from down south, up north or inland, a stay at barranca opens the door to a wealth of markets, shows, natural wonders, charming towns, fabulous eateries, and family- and couple-friendly activities.
It’s little wonder that this gorgeous slice of paradise nestled between Southern Highlands and NSW South Coast is buzzing with visitors year-round, but there’s no doubt that the warmer months are some of the best.
Here are our favourite tried-and-tested things to see, eat and do if you’re visiting Kangaroo Valley from January right through ‘til autumn.
Not much tops a wander through the Farmer’s Market, basket in hand, soaking up the vibes and eyeing off fresh, local produce. Nestled among eucalypts with craggy mountains as the backdrop, Kangaroo Valley’s markets shine a spotlight on the region’s finest – think top-notch meat, seasonal fruit and veggies, herbs, eggs, preserves, and pastries. Held from 9:00am to 1:00pm on the second Sunday of every month at The Friendly Inn, here’s your chance to taste the best of the valley.
Dates to bookmark: 12th January, 9th February, and 9th March.
Just a short 30-minute drive from barranca, you'll find the vibrant town of Berry. Known for its slow living, charming fashion boutiques, beautiful vistas, and cozy cafes, this country-coastal gem makes for the perfect morning escape. We recommend coffee from IV Coffee and pastries from Milkwood.
Prefer to stay within Kangaroo Valley? Swing by the General Store, a local favourite for freshly baked sourdough, handmade cakes, sweet treats, and expertly brewed coffee.
Mark your calendars for the 14th and 15th of February, because the annual Kangaroo Valley Show is back to showcase the best the area has to offer. First established in 1881, this long-running event has become a community favourite, packed with classic fair attractions, local food stalls, cheese and wine tastings, entertainment and competitions such as wood chopping, ‘best dressed ute’, cooking, needlework, produce and animals. Tickets start at just $10 for kids and are available now via the Show’s site.
Summer in the Kangaroo Valley means it’s time to soak up the season and hit the water - because, honestly, where better to do it? For beach lovers, Jervis Bay’s stunning white sand beaches are just a short drive away. But if a peaceful paddle is more your speed, head to Kangaroo Valley Kayaks, conveniently located by the iconic Hampden Bridge. They’ve got kayaks and canoes ready for you to float down the river in style.
Staying at barranca? Just a 15-minute walk from your villa, you’ll find a fresh running water creek with natural rock pools – the perfect spot to relax and soak in the serenity. Vehicles aren’t allowed down to the creek, so if you’re worried about an uphill walk back, chat with the Caretaker who would be happy to drive you down in the ute – an adventure all on its own!
Open all summer long, Jamberoo Action Park is the ideal place to cool off – especially if you have kids in tow. On Australia Day (26th January), the park will be playing Oz Music all day long, and is hosting all sorts of fun activities and competitions while delivering the goods where food, drink and ice cream is concerned. Admission covers all rides and attractions so you can experience the fun all day long. Get your tickets online.
It’s all in the name: Kangaroo Valley is a valley, afterall, so it should come as no surprise that you’ll find some absolutely breathtaking tracks and trails here. One of the most popular is the Three Views walking track, which takes you by native flora and fauna up to three cliff-edge viewing points, each boasting a totally unique outlook. Just be sure to pack all the essentials, especially on a hot summer’s day.
Every small country town needs a small country town pub, and The Friendly Inn is the Kangaroo Valley’s. Established in 1892, it’s one of the region’s oldest hotels – and evidence of its longstanding history can be found everywhere; from its iron lacework and charming facade to its reputation amongst locals and visitors alike.
Another show to add to your list, The Berry Show is making its grand return on Friday, 31st January, and Saturday, 1st February, bringing two full days of country charm and entertainment to the Berry Showground. This iconic event is packed with all your favourite agricultural attractions, from dairy and beef cattle to showjumping horses, goats, and poultry. Watch the Young Farmer Challenge in action, marvel at the woodchopping, and enjoy classic events like hay-stacking and the children’s pet show. Plus, don’t miss the local arts and crafts, delicious food stalls, and a spectacular fireworks display to cap it all off!
Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained? The Berry Hotel has an exciting lineup of activities, from pizza-making sessions to face painting, a reptile zoo, and balloon twisting! Face Painting is happening on the 13th and 24th of January from 12:00pm. The Reptile Zoo will be in town on the 15th and 29th of January, while Balloon Twisting is set for the 20th of January. For the little chefs, don't miss the Pizza Making sessions on the 22nd of January. For more details or to reserve your place, visit their website here.
Looking for the perfect day out in Berry? The town’s vibrant market scene has you covered with two incredible markets to explore.
Start your adventure at the Berry Markets, held on the first Sunday of every month (except February) from 8:30am to 2:00pm. Known as the South Coast’s largest monthly outdoor market, it’s home to around 200 stalls offering everything from arts and crafts to locally grown produce, plants, books, clothing, collectables, and more.
For a more boutique experience, visit the Berry Village Market, held on the 4th Sunday of each month from 10:00am to 3:00pm at the Berry Bowling Club. With over 80 unique stalls, this market offers retro finds, vinyl records, plants, fresh flowers, health products, and gourmet foods like croissants, organic oils, jams, and even gin and wine tastings. Furry friends are welcome too. Stay for the live music and enjoy delicious eats!
Self-care isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity, and if you're staying at barranca, there's no better place to indulge. With the soothing sounds of nature all around, start your day with forest bathing or a refreshing wild swim, then treat yourself to a blissful facial and botanical massage, all conveniently on-site. Check out our wellness packages for more information.
If the day has brought rain, or you’re simply keen on getting to know the area’s history, child- and group-friendly Pioneer Village Museum is a must. Take a picnic, explore the over seven-hectares-worth of bushland and wander through the dairy, forge, school house, settler’s cottage and museum – all of which are all either original, or built to the exact standards of the era.
