If you’re coming from Queanbeyan, Bungendore, Jerrabomberra or Captains Flat, you’ll likely go via Cooma. Braidwood peeps will probs take the coastal route.
We’re mostly gonna stick to the tips for the Cooma way for this one but will add some ideas for our Braidwood buds as well.
So pack up the car, whip on the seatbelts and off we go!
1 // Fuel Up
Your body, not the car. But if the tank’s running low, there are a few petrol stations near our first stop, so you can sort both.
Get yourself prepped and pumped with a fresh coffee from Suppeto in Jerra as you head out of town. Grab a nommy sweet treat while you’re at it.
Gotta keep the energy levels up for the drive ahead, right?
2 // Cooma Exploring
There is heaps to explore in Cooma, so you could easily make a whole day of it, but for now, we’ve got a choose-your-own-adventure sitch.
Check out the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre to get educated on the history and future of the Snowy Scheme. Take a virtual flight over the Snowy Mountains, see real-time operations, and hear stories from local workers. There’s also a gift shop and cafe on-site.
For even more education, Cooma also has the NSW State Correctional Museum. Learn all about Australia’s penal history and how it’s evolved over the years.
If you need to stretch those legs, head over to check out Lambie Gorge. A fairly short and not too difficult walk that will give you views of flowers, rockpools and crackin’ lookout.
Or roam free at Centennial Park in the centre of town. There’s a playground, picnic benches, walking paths and a chance to snap a selfie with ‘The Man from Snowy River Statue’ outside the visitors centre in the park.
3 // Pie Time
All that adventuring has probably worked up an appetite. A classic meat pie is a road trip must.
Stop at the famous Nimmitabel Bakery for one of their mouthwatering pies, made with seasonal ingredients and traditional methods. You’ll find faves like chunky beef and curried veg, along with fun options like chicken and corn.
Pick up some pantry goods for the road and make sure to say g’day to George the Elephant out front… he’s impossible to miss!
4 // Nature Time
Time for a little post-lunch digestion with a visit to Nunnock Swamp and Grasslands walking tracks.
There’s 15kms of interconnected walking tracks here and sadly you probably won’t have time to do them all.
But carve out some time to wander the area and keep one eye skywards as it’s an incredible location for birdwatching.
It’s also a popular spot for camping if you fancy spending the night.
5 // Made It To Town
Merimbula, final destination, aw yeah!
If you’re ready to relax and rest your head, peep these local accommodation options.
Feeling a bit peckish? Here’s our directory of local eateries to grab a bite.
And if you’re in the mood for a drinky-poo, make your way to one of these local watering holes to quench your thirst.
But an early night might be on the cards because there’s all the awesome Merimbula Eat Festival to look forward to.
We can’t wait for this festival packed with paddock-to-plate and tide-to-table experiences celebrating the food, heritage, and natural beauty of the Sapphire Coast.
With so much foodie goodness to explore, including shucking school, craft beer journeys, and more, you’re definitely going to need all your energy!
Coming Via Braidwood
If you’re heading off from Braidwood, your drive is going to be along the coast instead. But there’s still plenty to see and do. Here are some ideas:
- Wander around Mogo, checking out the cool shops and cafes.
- Stop for a refreshing drink or lunch at Moruya Waterfront Hotel Motel and soak in those gorgeous views.
- Ride or walk the Mill Bay Boardwalk in Narooma.
- Have lunch at the Tilba Valley Winery & Ale House
- Stock up on all things dairy at the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre
Beep, beep, start the car.
We’re off on a rooooad trriiiiip!
One last thing to decide, who’s in charge of the playlist?
Don’t forget to get your tickets and accommodation to the Eat Festival booked as soon as you can.
Visit the Festival’s website to plan your festival itinerary. Visit for the main event on Sunday, or choose to add on some more fabulous foodie events in to your stay on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday as well. We want to go to everything!
Visit our guide to places to stay on the Sapphire Coast for the Festival.
