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Top 13 Fireplaces in the Shoalhaven

There are so many unique spots to warm up down in the South Coast as the months get cooler. One of the best ways to keep warm and cosy is by settling yourself in front of a roasting fire. There’s something about the smell of burning wood and glowing embers that’s just oh so romantic. So grab a bevvy or a bite to eat and perch yourself in front of one of the top 13 fireplaces in the Shoalhaven.

 

1. The Lookout Cafe, Cambewarra Mountain

Cambewarra Mountain Lookout, a popular tourist attraction since 1909, boasts spectacular views of the beautiful Shoalhaven. Its glass-front café shares that same amazing view and features a toasty-warm combustion wood fire. Grab a gourmet hot chocolate and bask in the comfort of a wicker chair in front of the fireplace. Maybe even feast on some fluffy homemade scones while watching the rainbow lorikeets feed outside too. Bring your pooch down to The Lookout Cafe for a free puppychino on Dog’s Breakfast Saturdays. They also have a delicious tapas menu available every Friday night, you should definitely try.

 

2. Milk Haus Wholefood Canteen

Grab a seat in front of the fireplace at Milk Haus Wholefood Canteen and taste some yummy local fare. The kitchen uses only the freshest of ingredients, sourced from local farmers or Milk Haus’ own on-site gardens. The menu is modern and offers up some excellent vegetarian and gluten-free options. The concrete building, which was once a cheese factory, features tall cathedral ceilings and exposed beams. A rustic, decorative wreath nests above the black combustion fireplace which is tucked away in the corner. Curl up on the leather ottoman with a warm blanket, a hot cupper and wash those winter blues away.

 

3. The Gunyah Restaurant and Paperbark Camp

Glamping enthusiasts will adore the two fires at this unique accommodation option in Jervis Bay. A crackling outdoor bonfire soars in the winter months. At night, it is the perfect place to toast marshmallows under whimsical fairy lights. Stay in the luxurious African safari tents at Paperbark Camp, a perfect base to explore the unspoilt national parks. Dine at the Gunyah Restaurant which is also equipped with a wood-effect gas fire.

 

4. The Heads Hotel

Sample a craft beer and share a homemade pizza in front of large combustion fireplaces at the Heads Hotel. Yes, that’s right – fireplaces. The Heads Hotel is a pub, restaurant, beer garden, children’s playground and live entertainment venue, all in one hit! It also has incredible views of the river mouth at Shoalhaven Heads. Sink into the comfy cushioned lounges in front of the fireplace and immerse in the Winter vibes.

 

5. Cupitt’s Estate

A place that oozes French charm, tucked away in country MiltonCupitt’s is both elegant and rustic at the same. The venue is a boutique winery, microbrewery, fromagerie, restaurant and an accommodation option too. You don’t even need to leave the property to have a variety of different experiences! Multiple fireplaces is quite the trend down in the Shoalhaven, with Cupitt’s also boasting two open stone fireplaces. One in the historic cellar door building and another next to the restaurant. Sit around on the lounges and rustic stools and warm up while sampling the award-winning Dusty Dog Shiraz.

 

6. Bannisters Pavilion

Order a coffee, beer or cocktail and ease into a snug couch near the gas fireplace at Bannisters Pavilion. This stylish fire sits in the lobby of one of the Shoalhaven’s finest hotels. We recommend taking a sunset stroll along Mollymook beach before dining at the rooftop bar-and-grill. All Bannisters guests staying in penthouse suites will also have access to their own private in-room fireplaces. So luxurious!

 

7. Mountain Ridge Wines

Winter is all about warming up with red wine and fireplaces. Mountain Ridge is the perfect, cosy spot for exactly that. Located just outside of Berry, this family-run vineyard offers up stunning views of Coolangatta and Cambewarra Mountains. It truly is a special place to soak up just how beautiful the Shoalhaven landscape is. The restaurant is open breakfast and lunch, serving up yummy winter dishes like buttermilk pancakes and slow-cooked lamb. Take a tour of the cellar door before settling down in front of the fireplace. Art lovers will also be excited to know that Mountain Ridge has a lovely gallery within its restaurant space. They also host workshops and even incorporate some artworks into their wine labels!

 

8. Bay and Bush Cottages

Bay and Bush Cottages is situated on 27 acres of unspoilt bushland. Only a stones throw to the gorgeous beaches of Jervis Bay and the shops and foodie goodness of Huskisson. The property features eight unique and beautiful cottages plus a range of glamping tents available to stay in. There is relaxed indoor seating around the fire at the bar and dining area. Additionally, the property has an outdoor firepit to enjoy some mulled wine and a catch up with friends. The private event space onsite is a gorgeous place to celebrate those special events. The team at Bay and Bush Cottages can help you arrange all the fun logistics with local specialists.

 

9. Coolangatta Estate

The 194-year-old Coolangatta Estate houses Alexander’s Grill, an appetising restaurant filled with yummy local produce. Wood thrown into a flaming metal chamber heats the lunchtime marquee and red-hot coals are placed under metal grills to cook some of the food. The main building features a huge, open fireplace made from 150-year-old sandstone bricks.

 

10. Greendale’s Café

Greendale’s is a wonderful, country café situated within Jindyandy Mill in Pyree. It is an excellent venue for anyone travelling with kids. Venture down here for a nice family brunch amongst all the rustic vintage furniture in front of the fireplace. If the weather is nice then we highly recommend taking a walk on the café’s grounds. The surrounding greenery is stunning and there’s plenty of outdoor seating and kids toys to keep the little ones entertained.

 

11. The Friendly Inn Hotel

The historic Friendly Inn Hotel in Kangaroo Valley is an excellent pit stop to refuel and defrost. This Shoalhaven pub’s comforting, open fireplace is well used, keeping the inn nice and toasty. If you enjoy the brisk winter air, head outside to the massive beer garden. You can check out the chicken houses and partake in a cheerful game of pétanque. The Friendly Inn Hotel also hosts its annual charity bonfire every June long weekend.

 

12. The Little Snapper

The Little Snapper is a bustling foodie hub at Culburra Beach, with on point cocktails and a warm hearth. The owner and chef, Scott Mason, hails from Sydney’s finest, including Bistro Moncur and Bambini Trust Restaurant & Wine Room. Be sure to try the local Blackfish, and keep your eyes peeled for specialty nights and daily happy hours! While you are there, pop down to Culburra Beach to spot the seals from the panoramic lookout at Penguin Head.

 

14 Fireplaces of the Shoalhaven

 

13. Two Figs Winery

Two Figs Winery was established in 2003 by Shayne Bricker and his wife, Alison. The Winery earned its name from two Moreton Bay Fig trees found on the property’s original driveway. A small boutique winery producing premium, hand-crafted wines yearly, the fruit is sourced onsite and from nearby areas. Situated atop one of Mount Coolangatta’s foothills, the cellar door offers breathtaking views of the Shoalhaven River, the perfect location to share a wine and tasting plate with friends and family.

 

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