Tilba

As quaint as they come

Turning back the clock is easy when visiting the tiny hamlets of Tilba Tilba and Central Tilba, in the Eurobodalla region of the NSW South Coast. Both villages are National Trust-classified and apart from their heritage value, are located in what is up there with the most beautiful countryside in NSW, with lush green hills, a rich valley and Mount Gulaga providing an idyllic backdrop.

Aerial view overlooking Central Tilba on the State's South Coast

Streetscape, Central Tilba

Nature & history

Mount Gulaga, an extinct volcano in Gulaga National Park, is spiritually significant for the local Yuin Aboriginal people. Learn more about it on the Gulaga Creation Tour with an indigenous guide from Ngaran Ngaran Cultural Awareness. You can also do the Gulaga Mountain Walk, a difficult 14km climb with spectacular views from the summit.

Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness in Callala Bay, Jervis Bay & Shoalhaven, South Coast

Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness, Callala Bay - Credit: James Horan Photographer

Tilba Tilba

In this attractive village, visit Foxglove Gardens, an elegant garden built around a farm cottage, and the Gumnut Hideaway Gallery, home to photographs inspired by the region’s natural beauty. A short drive east is the spectacular Mystery Bay lookout and 1080 Beach, which is popular for swimming, surfing and fishing.

Central Tilba Lookout, Tilba

Central Tilba

North of Tilba Tilba is enchanting Central Tilba, where resident artists and artisans create wonderful works, from traditional crafts to contemporary arts and jewellery. Shop at Passionfish Candles and Gifts, Mockingbird Lane, Tilba Leather and Arcadia with its fine silver jewellery. Central Tilba also plays host to the famous Tilba Festival, on Easter Saturday.

Shopping, Central Tilba

Eat, drink & stay

Visit the famous ABC Cheese Factory to see the cheesemaking process in action, and taste and buy cheeses, honey and other dairy products produced by Tilba Real Dairy from Jersey cows. La Galette restaurant in Tilba Tilba serves genuine French cuisine. Have a cuppa at Eumun Tea, which has over 200 specialty teas, or tuck into fresh scones at Rose & Sparrow. If wine is preferred, visit Tilba Valley Winery and Ale House at Corunna Lake, and a stop at the beautiful Dromedary Hotel is also warranted.

Rose & Sparrow Cafe, Central Tilba

There are accommodation options to suit all budgets, from charming cottages such as Mountain View Farm and Foxglove Gardens to lakeside glamping, coastal retreats and campgrounds.

Getting there

The drive from Sydney to the Tilba region is five hours and three hours from Canberra. You can also fly to Moruya Airport and rent a car for the one-hour drive south. Moruya Airport is located 5km from Moruya’s town centre. Use the taxi services at the airport to make the short trip southwest. Alternatively, rent a car from the hire services available at the airport and explore the Eurobodalla region at your own pace. Regional Express operates direct flights from Sydney to Moruya five days a week, with return flights travelling via Merimbula.