August 05, 2016
TRAVEL NOTES | THE COTTAGE, KANGAROO VALLEY • LISA MADIGAN
It’s about 10 years since Lisa Madigan and her husband found a small cottage in Kangaroo Valley, a lush green area about two hours’ drive south of Sydney. The 1880s house had originally been built for The Kangaroo Valley Times and when the couple came across the place, they packed up their life in Sydney and moved to the country.
“We instantly fell in love with The Cottage when we first laid eyes on it,” Lisa says. “The yard was overgrown but we caught glimpses of ample fruit trees and old cedars, as well as the huge palm tree front and centre.”
The paint was worn and the interior needed a lot of attention but the main internal structure of the place hadn’t been changed much over the years. “It was exactly what we were after,” Lisa says.
Two years ago the couple returned to Sydney and now The Cottage is dedicated boutique accommodation. It is also a popular location for events and community gatherings.
Below, Lisa shares her tips on staying in the area.
You can also read her original interview on Daily Imprint here.
EAT
Breakfast In bed, of course! We supply a delicious local hamper of fresh sourdough, local jam, free range eggs and other seasonal treats. Perfect to enjoy and slip back beneath the In Bed covers.
Lunch Definitely Berry Sourdough Cafe with a delicious seasonal menu and rustic charm, a great little wine list too. Milkwood Bakery has an abundant breakfast and lunch counter, kombucha on tap, great coffee and amazing pastries.
Dinner A beautifully whipped up feast of local produce at The Cottage always hits the spot, if you’re happy to cook. We’re also lucky to have two impeccable locals South On Albany and Biota.
SHOP
Home Amara Home
Him Valley Vintage
Her Shady Fig, The Picnic Shed
Kids Goldfish Gifts
Food Berry Tea Shop, Milkwood Bakery, Il Locale Gelato, Berry Doughnut Van, Highland Gourmet Potatoes, South On Albany, Biota
VISIT
It’s stunning all year round, the seasons are beautifully sharp and distinct. In summer The Cottage is like a little beach house in the middle of the countryside, you can swim in the river or head out to Seven Mile Beach or explore further down the South Coast to see the white sands of Jervis Bay.
Lush and green most of the year with ample fruits, blooms and foliage throughout spring and summer until autumn hits and the entire landscape changes. The cooler months are certainly all about lighting the open fire and getting cosy beneath the blankets of mist that roll into the Valley, slow cooking and good wine.
INSIDER TIPS
There are so many places to explore and simply being in the Valley itself you certainly get a great sense of its natural majesty. Pack a picnic with local produce and fresh sourdough and hop in the car, or even take a stroll and you'll be bound to find a romantic little place to lay your rug. Drawing Room Rocks is a great local walk and the views from Fitzroy Falls are spectacular.
Bundanon is a wonderful and unique experience - take a tour of Arthur Boyd’s homestead and studio or engage with their calendar of events. Cupitt's winery is also a great little day trip and you will find some other wineries dotted up and down the coast.
