Berry In Winter: 10 Best Places to Visit, Eat & Relax

Located on the picturesque South Coast of New South Wales, Berry is a charming town that should be on everyone’s bucket list this winter! Whether you’re seeking a weekend to explore a new food scene, peruse boutique shops and markets, immerse yourself in cultural experiences, or simply relax and find a cosy retreat from the cold, Berry offers something for everyone to enjoy. See our top 10 things to add to your Berry bucket list below.

Start your day at a cute and cosy destination with a steaming cup of tea at the famous The Berry Tea Shop – a premier destination for tea enthusiasts. Paulina and Cliff are the passionate, dynamic duo behind The Berry Tea Shop, who happen to be our dear friends. They offer a wide selection of teas, freshly baked scones and absolutely divine cakes, baked in-house by Cliff himself, to accompany your hot cuppa. They also sell custom gift hampers, perfect for a Mother’s Day gift, birthday or for yourself.

Photo Credit: The Berry Tea Shop

Once you have fuelled yourself, time to hit the shops! Spend the morning browsing through the treasures at Claringbolds or the Berry Village Market, held on the fourth Sunday of the month at the Berry Bowling Club.

Photo Credit: Claringbolds Fine Jewellery

Update your winter wardrobe with a visit to Moss Nest. Explore their collection of stylish coats, knits and scarves from Australian Designers, perfect for staying warm on your weekend in Berry. If you have little ones, Bliss & Co Berry stock adorable babywear and gifting, children’s toys and a divine selection of women’s fashion and body care. If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, a visit to Amara Home is a must. The store is a collection of carefully curated stock from all over the world, including “1 Off” furniture and interior decorative pieces. Hot tip: Ask about their private shopping experience, complete with a glass of bubbles. 

For a truly memorable wine and dine experience on a crisp winter evening, look no further than South on Albany. Hosts John and Sonia curate a fortnightly rotating menu, spotlighting the finest flavors of the South Coast & NSW with a contemporary, relaxed, and authentic atmosphere. Due to the intimate size of the restaurant, seating is limited (with the largest table accommodating 5 people), so we suggest you secure your reservation in advance to ensure you don’t miss out!

Or for a gastro-pub vibe—relaxed yet refined and consistently enjoyable, visit Il Locale.  Enjoy one of the many beers on tap or a cocktail over lunch or dinner, with a high quality menu that  changes seasonally.

In the morning, it is a bustling hot spot where both locals and visitors come for their morning coffee fix. You can savour breakfast in the sunny courtyard or the dining area overlooking the lively Queen St. Their array of delectable baked goods, rolls, and other delights make for perfect grab-and-go options for breakfast and lunch.

Photo Credit: Berry.org.au 

Immerse yourself in a haven of relaxation with a rejuvenating spa day at Lou Lou Berry, a sanctuary of tranquility where you can unwind and pamper yourself from head to toe. Choose from an array of luxurious treatments designed to soothe the body, calm the mind, and uplift the spirit.  For the ultimate relaxation, why not stay in and enjoy a long soak, with some soft music and candles in your holiday home. Blooms at Berry and Atalia House offer lovely deep bathtubs, complemented by plush bath towels and luxuriant bathroom products.

If you’re more into sightseeing than shopping, immerse yourself in Berry’s rich history at the Berry Museum. Learn about the town’s heritage through exhibits showcasing artifacts, photographs, and stories from days gone by. If time allows, take a walk around the Berry township with a written walking guide complete with directions, historical photographs and fascinating information on Berry’s buildings and history, courtesy of the Berry Museum.

Experience the vibrant local music scene at The Berry Hotel. Sip on a drink with friends in the courtyard as you listen to talented musicians perform a mix of genres, from blues to folk every Saturday night. Or get behind the mic yourself on karaoke night, every Friday from 8pm.

Discover the ultimate selection of gourmet deli products at Flavours Berry. Linley and John, our dear friends, are not only incredible individuals but also passionate about sharing their favourite products with visitors. They take great joy in guiding customers through the shop, highlighting the finest offerings available. If you’re after something sweet, explore The Treat Factory and browse their range of chocolates, jams, and preserves. Stock up on gourmet treats to enjoy during your winter getaway.

When visiting Berry in winter, make sure your holiday home includes a fire pit or fireplace for added comfort and warmth. Embrace the camping vibe around the outdoor fire pit of Blooms at Berry, toasting marshmallows to perfection, or gather around the inviting indoor gas fireplace. Bask in the warmth of the oversized outdoor fireplace at Torrente House as you enjoy a nibble or meal, and the luxury and convenience of a wine fridge within the outdoor entertaining area. Amidst lush gardens of Atalia House, there’s also an outdoor fire pit waiting to be discovered. If you prefer, retreat indoors by the warmth of a wood-burning fireplace and unwind with a good flick on TV.

If you’re heading to Berry for the weekend or for a day trip, the Drawing Room Rocks hike or drive is definitely worth putting on your to do list. Make a stop at the local IGA (which is always very well stocked) or pick up some delicious grazing goodies from Flavours to enjoy once you arrive, as you marvel at the breathtaking views of the countryside and coastline from this stunning lookout point.