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.
2. Milk Haus
Grab a seat in front of the fireplace at Milk Haus 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 – multiple 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 Milton. Cupitt’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. Berry Hotel
The historic Berry Hotel was established in 1863. Located right in the heart of town, this beautiful premises offers charming country in ambience. The Hotel features a delicious modern menu and extensive drinks list. Grab yourself a spot right in front of the fireplace and settle in on a chilly day. You can also stay for the weekend in the onsite accommodation.
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 safari tents available to stay in. There is relaxed indoor seating around the fire at the cafe and dining area. Additionally, the property has an outdoor firepit to enjoy some mulled wine and a catch up with friends. The private event spaces onsite are 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 and offer a range of wellness experiences to round out an truly memorable and immersive stay.
9. Coolangatta Estate
Set on land first established in 1822 as the earliest European settlement on the South Coast, Coolangatta Estate’s main building features a huge, open fireplace made from 150-year-old sandstone bricks. Create your own cheese board and book a guided wine tasting to make the most of your visit. Home to 25 acres of vineyard, a carefully restored convict-built village, and generations of hands-on dedication, Coolangatta Estate is a place where history, family, and wine come together.
10. 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 and enjoy stunning views over the escarpment. The Friendly Inn Hotel also hosts its annual charity bonfire every June long weekend.
11. Wildes Boutique Hotel Kangaroo valley
Set beautifully on the main street of the historic town of Kangaroo Valley, Wildes is a Boutique luxury hotel offers an elegant, yet relaxed dining experience for everyone to enjoy. Enjoy the cozy fireplace that warms the restaurant space as you sample dishes of modern Australian style with Mediterranean influence utilising delicious local produce.
12. 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.
13. Kangaroo Valley Golf & Country Retreat
The long standing valley institution, Kangaroo Valley Golf & Country Retreat, boasts an authentic Italian menu, sweeping views and not one but two fireplaces in the main dining room. Calling the historic Woolshed home, Osteria La Vallata, combines rustic charm with Mediterranean magic. Whether you’re stopping by for a beer on the deck after a round of golf, or settling in for a weekend at the on-site accommodation, it’s the perfect place to cosy up and chill out.
