There’s something special about slowing down and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Shoalhaven region. Located just a two-hour drive from Sydney and two-and-a-half hours from Canberra, the award-winning South Coast region not only boasts 100 beaches but is made up of 70 per cent national parks and forests. In the eight years my wife Lauren and I have lived on the South Coast, we’ve only scratched the surface – it was time to dig a little deeper.
Our weekend began in Milton, a town that blends country charm with vibrant energy, setting the perfect tone for the days ahead. As we arrived, we felt an immediate sense of ease, the kind that comes from crisp, coastal air, rolling green hills and the promise of time well spent. Our intentions for the weekend were to dedicate time to deeply rest, reconnect with each other and soak up the simple joy of being present in a truly beautiful place.
Time to heal
Our first stop was The Heal Zone, a newly opened space that overlooks Conjola National Park and offers breathtaking views of the coast. Since its opening in December 2024, owners Madi and Nic have cultivated a welcoming space dedicated to healing, rest, movement and growth.
Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted by Nic, who shared with us his deep passion for movement and healing. Nic’s approach, shaped by years of yoga training, a love for surfing and various other modalities, shines through in everything he does. We participated in a 90-minute session blending movement, mobility and breathwork, followed by a cold plunge and sauna. Nic’s unique style emphasises grounding exercises that promote fluidity of movement, tailored to each individual’s body. His distinctive approach and gentle prompts helped us to release tension and stiffness from our bodies and minds.
The breathwork session focused on calming, sustainable techniques that regulated our nervous systems and fostered deep relaxation. We concluded with an ice bath and sauna session in a private area at the back of the space to aid in recovery and healing. Leaving The Heal Zone, we both felt revitalised, agile and ready to explore Milton’s charming boutique shops.
Long, lazy lunch
After a short drive, we arrived at Milton’s Milkhaus for lunch, eager to refuel after our morning of movement.
Milkhaus is much more than a cafe. It is a farm-to-table experience focused on quality produce and sustainability. The on-site garden dictates the ever-changing menu, with plants cultivated to align with seasonal shifts. As we wandered through the garden, one of Milkhaus’ founders, Nat, explained their impressive nine-month menu-planning process, allowing time for planting, harvesting and preparation. Currently, 80 per cent of Milkhaus’ produce is grown on-site, with the remaining ingredients sourced locally, reinforcing their commitment to the community.
There, we savoured a long, nourishing lunch, taking time to appreciate each course. The standout dishes included the 16-hour slow-cooked lamb shoulder and the refreshing summer peach dessert.
Kangaroo Valley hideaway
With full bellies, we set off for Kangaroo Valley, a place we’ve never been before. As we followed winding roads over the mountain, shifting vistas of dense forests and open valleys encouraged us to slow down and breathe deeply. We were excited to arrive at Wildes Boutique Hotel, our home for the next two nights.
Once there, we walked through a serene courtyard and experienced an instant sense of calm. Our spacious studio featured a kitchenette and a luxurious bathtub – which we quickly filled and jumped in, ready to unwind after a day of exploration. Once settled, we walked across the road to The Friendly Inn for a casual beer-garden dinner.
Floating freely
The next day, it was time for our canoeing adventure. Free from the noise of motorboats, Tallowa Dam is a sanctuary for those seeking stillness and connection with nature. Surrounded by the untouched wilderness of Morton National Park, canoes and kayaks glide gently across the water, inviting a slower, more present way of being.
On the shore, we met the lovely Bree from Valley Outdoors, whose deep knowledge of the land set the tone for our day of adventuring. Before stepping into our canoes, we gathered for a grounding session, tuning into birdsong, buzzing bees and rustling leaves. This moment of stillness allowed us to anchor deeply into the present.
As we paddled, our focus wasn’t on distance or speed but on mindfulness. We moved slowly, feeling the rhythm of the water beneath us, the subtle shifts of balance and the quiet harmony of the landscape. Bree shared insights into the area’s birdlife and Indigenous heritage, deepening our appreciation for the land and those who have cared for it for thousands of years.
At one point, we rafted our canoes together, closed our eyes and floated in silence, guided by Bree. It was a po