Bega and surrounds - NSW Sapphire Coast

Bega and surrounds

Bega is set amongst lush green farmlands around a 6 hour drive from Sydney. Famous, of course, for being the origin of Bega Cheese.

The Bega Cheese heritage centre is just one reason to visit this area, as, although not on the coast, close-by Bermagui and Tathra make up for this for lovers of the sea.

Top 5 things to do and see

Bega Cheese

A visit to Bega is definitely not complete without a visit to the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre where you can sample a range of cheeses, buy them of course, find out about the history of the Bega Valley, the history of cheese and how it’s processed. You can also have a great feed here including icy cold milkshakes.

Bermagui

Bermagui is famous for deep-sea fishing mainly marlin and tuna. With the continental shelf just 20km away this is about as close as you can get. Go on a boat charter from this lovely safe harbour, or drop by the co-op and purchase a feast.

If you’re looking for something for the kids, the Blue Pool, a tidal pool to the south of Bermagui, offers a peaceful day out.

Tathra

Tathra is famous for its’ steamer wharf – officially classified by the National Trust – built in the early 1860’s it was in use until 1954 and reopened in 1988 for fishing. This is arguably one of the best diving sites on the Sapphire Coast.

Mimosa Rocks National Park

From north of the Bega River at the ocean, down to Tathra, the Mimosa Rocks National Park is full of picturesque bays and inlets along a rugged coastline. The spotted gum forests and beaches are a feature, and the beaches home to hooded plover and pied oystercatcher which are threatened shorebirds.

Cobargo

For the history buff, lined with turn of the century buildings and interesting shops and art studios. A quaint little village with a market each Saturday.

Holiday options

Great for couples and group getaways, particularly boys fishing weeks or weekends.

When to go?

Any time of year is good in Narooma, as fishing is of course great at any time of the year. Summer is more suitable for beach sports, but winter a perfect time to cosy up in Tilba, so don’t let the weather deter.

How to get there?

Follow the Princes Highway south of Sydney past Batemans Bay, from Canberra the Kings Highway takes you to Batemans Bay and then take the Princes Highway south past Narooma.

How long to go for?

At least a week, there is plenty to do. Accommodation bookings on weekends are essential as this is a well-known fishing area.

Where to Stay? There is plenty of unique accommodation in Bega, Merimbula and Pambula Beach.

Tourist Information

An annual visitors guide is published on the area, the website at www.sapphirecoast.com.au or visitor information centres at Bega and Eden.