The geology of Royal National Park is dominated by sandstone. This hard, creamy rock started forming between 190 and 225 million years ago, when Australia was part of the Gondwanaland supercontinent. At this time, the Sydney region was a large freshwater lake. This was slowly filled up by deposits of sand, mud, silt and pebbles, washed in by large streams. Over the millions of years that followed, these sediments were gradually overlain by others. They were compressed into sandstone, mudstone and shale.
Royal National Park lies on a sloping plateau which rises from sea level at Jibbon Point in the north, to over 300 m at Bulgo in the park's southern corner. The plateau is split by the Hacking River system, which has been eroding the sandstone into deep gorges for at least 50 million years.
The park's landscape is one of steep valleys, ridges and rocky outcrops. Its many streams are punctuated by waterfalls and pools. Several areas are of particular interest to geologists:
Cliff-top sand dunes between Jibbon and Marley
These dunes were formed during a sea level rise some 6000 to 10,000 years ago. They are the most extensive and best-preserved of their kind in New South Wales.
Low beach ridges on the eastern side of Cabbage Tree Basin
These ridges have formed over the last 6000 years in areas sheltered from the surf. They are the only known example of this feature on the NSW coast.
Cave on the south bank of Palona Brook
This cave contains stalactites and stalagmites.
Where to see some of the park's landscapes and features
Audley Room Function Centre
Wheelchair access: easy
The Audley Room is upstairs from the Royal National Park Visitor Centre and is wheelchair accessible.
When you’re looking for a venue filled with character and heritage charm, look no further than Audley Room Function Centre. Set within Royal National Park on the banks of picturesque Hacking River, it’s the perfect spot for weddings, corporate functions, and elegant high teas.
Sip champagne and nibble gourmet canapés with your guests, while the helpful staff organise the rest, allowing you to focus on the important things. Whether you’re exchanging vows or organising a social or corporate event, the natural bush setting and scenic river views from the shady verandah make it both an elegant and relaxing venue.
Check out the delicious catering options to suit every occasion online at Audley Room and create an event to remember.
Getting there: On entering Royal National Park:
- From Farnell Avenue at Loftus, follow Audley Road down to Hacking River. The visitor centre is on Lady Carrington drive just after crossing the weir.
- From McKell Avenue at Waterfall, follow Sir Bertram Stevens Drive all the way, and Audley Room Function Centre is the last building on the left before crossing the weir.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Opening hours: Audley Room Function Centre has variable opening times. Please call (02) 9542 6066 for further information.
Venue hire: See details
Contact:
The Audley Room, Phone: 02 9542 6066
Bonnie Vale picnic area
For a great day of water-based fun for all the family, pack the car and make your way to Bonnie Vale picnic area. With loads of options for all, everyone will feel like they’re on holiday for a day.
The kids will love swimming and liloing in the tranquil waters of Cabbage Tree Basin, and on weekends you can hire a canoe and paddle the waterways of Port Hacking, near Bundeena. There’s great fishing at nearby Jibbon Beach and even gas barbecues so you can cook up the catch of the day.
After a relaxing day, it could be hard to leave. If you want to make a weekend of it, stay overnight at Bonnie Vale campground. However, it’s a very popular spot and it's best to book in advance.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching, fishing, swimming
Getting there: Bonnie Vale picnic area is in the Bundeena precinct of Royal National Park. To get there:
- Drive from the Loftus entrance towards Bundeena
- Turn left into Bundeena Drive and head towards Bundeena
- Turn left into Sea Breeze Lane and follow the signs
Alternatively, take the ferry from Cronulla to Bundeena wharf. It’s a 15 minute walk along a track to the entrance.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Opening hours: Bonnie Vale picnic area is:
- open 6am – 8:30pm (Monday – Sunday)
- closed on Christmas Day
Facilities: picnic tables, gas/electric barbecues (free), carpark, drinking water, flush toilets, trackhead/access point
Currawong Flat picnic area
Royal National Park has been a bush escape for Sydney-siders for over 120 years, so when it’s time for some family timeout, head to this popular riverside picnic spot in Audley precinct. Not far from Royal National Park Visitor Centre, Currwawong Flat picnic area is a great spot to while away a relaxing day, or an ideal pit-stop on a day trip whilst exploring this famous park.
Pick your spot under the shade of the she-oaks, spark up a barbecue and tuck into a delicious lunch as you soak up the scenic river views. Bring your own canoe, or hire one from the famous Audley Weir boat hire, for a paddle along the tranquil waters of this picturesque waterway.
If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a large network of walking tracks throughout the park. Nearby Uloola walking track takes in the surrounding heathlands. Or if you’re feeling indulgent, it’s only a short stroll to Weir Cafe for a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Activities: day walking, picnics and barbecues, swimming, birdwatching
Location:
shown on Audley map
Getting there: Currawong Flat picnic area is in the Audley precinct of Royal National Park. To get there from Audley, take Farnell Avenue and follow the signs.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, gas/electric barbecues (free), flush toilets, drinking water, carpark, trackhead/access point
Garie Beach picnic area
You’ll love this quick holiday fix just an hour or so from Sydney. So pack a picnic, herd up the clan and get down there nice and early to grab a great spot at Garie Beach, in the southern end of Royal National Park.
Head to the beach for a spot of whale watching in the winter or for the feel of warm salt water on your skin, surf the waves in the warmer months. If you’re feeling lucky, try your hand at some beach fishing. It’s an ideal spot for birdwatching, so bring the binoculars for a chance to glimpse an albatross, sea eagle, and the rarer peregrine falcon as they cruise on the updraft from coastal breezes.
After lunch, explore the rainforest gullies around the beach where cabbage tree palms and ferns provide a shady spot.
Activities: walking, surfing, swimming, fishing, birdwatching, whale watching, picnicking, playing and socialising
Location:
shown on Forest Island - Garie Beach - Otford map
Getting there: Garie Beach picnic area is in the southern section of Royal National Park. To get there from Waterfall train station:
- Follow McKell Avenue to the end
- Turn left into Sir Bertram Stevens Drive
- Drive for approximately 3km and follow the signs to Garie Beach
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, flush toilets, cold showers, cafe/kiosk, carpark
Events, activities and alerts at this location
| Commercial activity | Sydney Coast Walks  Sydney Coast Walks are the Sydney walking people. With some of the city's best natural beauty only accessible on foot, Sydney Coast Walks provides expertly guided half day, full day and overnight hiking adventures through Sydney Harbour and Royal National Parks, enabling guests to reconnect with nature in Australia's largest city. Small groups, maximum 12 guests, for a better walking experience.
Sydney Harbour National Park Walking Tours
Royal National Park Walking Tours
- Jibbon Aboriginal Tour Learn the traditions of the Dharawal Aboriginal people, view thousand-year-old rock carvings and listen to Dreaming stories.
- Marley Explore Royal's majestic sandstone coastline on a full day walk.
- Wattamolla (Coast Track) Discover awe-inspiring views and fascinating history as you hike the iconic Coast Track. Enjoy a fully catered and supported camping experience.
When: year-round. Bookings essential. More info: Sydney Coast Walks, Phone: 02 8521 7423 (international +612 8521 7423) | As required |
Governor Game lookout
If you'd love a coastal experience without all the sand then this scenic lookout has all the bases covered. Governor Game lookout is a great spot for a break on a car tour of Royal National Park. It offers brilliant coastal views and lovely heathlands, is an ideal spot for birdwatching, and a great place for whale watching during the migratory season.
Inhale the fresh ocean breezes as you step out onto this landmark. The surrounding heathland erupts with a dazzling display of colour in spring; it’s impossible to ignore the heady scent of boronia and hakea. Look for gymea lillies with its striking single red flower, whilst crimson rosellas, lorikeets, and yellow-tailed cockatoos are often seen flitting through the bush.
It’s a great spot to get your bearings or have a quick bite. However, if you’re keen to get amongst it, head down to nearby Garie Beach picnic area for swimming and a barbecue.
Activities: sightseeing, picnics and barbecues, whale watching
Location:
shown on Forest Island - Garie Beach - Otford map
Getting there: Governor Game lookout is in the southern section of Royal National Park. To get there from Waterfall train station:
- Follow McKell Avenue to the end
- Turn left into Sir Bertram Stevens Drive
- Drive for approximately 3km and follow the signs to Garie Beach
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, carpark, lookout
Gunjulla Flat picnic area
This is a beautiful spot for a quick bite to eat or a stretch of the legs before exploring Australia’s oldest national park, near Waterfall. Gunjulla Flat picnic area, on the western edge of Royal National Park, is a quick and easy pit stop on a day trip or car tour of the park.
Pull up and lay out a picnic spread on one of the tables and enjoy a rustic bush setting. It’s an ideal spot for a breather while road cycling around the park, or a great place if prepping your gear for a day exploring the hinterland. It’s only a short drive along McKell Avenue to Couranga walking track or Forest walking track.
The surrounding heath attracts birds such as fantail cuckoos, pigeons and quails. In the spring, when the heath erupts with wildflowers, you might see honey eaters and wattlebirds feeding on the banksias.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching
Location:
shown on Forest Island - Garie Beach - Otford map
Getting there: Gunjulla Flat picnic area is in the Waterfall precinct of Royal National Park. To get there from Waterfall Station, follow McKell Avenue for approximately 1.5km and follow the signs.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, carpark
Ironbark Flat picnic area
Wheelchair access: easy
This area is fully wheelchair accessible
- Royal National Park Visitor Centre, Weir Cafe, and the pavilion are all accessed via a level concrete path from Triangle carpark.
- The Audley Room is accessible from the parking area at the front of the Dancehall on Sir Bertram Stevens Drive
When it’s time for a weekend getaway, pack the car and gather the family for a day trip to Ironbark Flat picnic area in Royal National Park. Near the picturesque Audley Weir, this pretty spot is wheelchair accessible from Weir Cafe and Royal National Park Visitor Centre.
When you arrive, you’ll know why you’re in one of Sydney’s most popular weekend destinations. On the peaceful banks of scenic Hacking River, you’ll feel the stresses of the week fall away. Spark up a barbecue and cook up a feast while the kids play on the big grassy areas.
After lunch there’s the option to hire canoes and go paddling, stretch your legs on Uloola walking track, or check out the views from Bungoona lookout. If all you want is relaxation, simply lie back in the shade and soak up the tranquillity of this riverside setting.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching
Location:
shown on Audley map
Getting there: Ironbark Flat picnic area is in the Audley precinct of Royal National Park. To get there, drive through Audley and follow the signs to the visitor centre.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, gas/electric barbecues (free), trackhead/access point
North Era campground
Camp overnight at North Era campground, surrounded by the stunning coastal scenery of Royal National Park.
Located on the Coast track behind pretty North Era Beach, North Era campground contains basic bush camping sites.
You’ll need to be fully self-sufficient when camping, including bringing your own food, drinking water, cooking equipment and supplies.
North Era campground is the overnight stop for hikers tackling one of Sydney’s classic bushwalks, the 26km Bundeena to Otford Coast track.
Its position on the Coast track, 3km from the wonderful waves of Garie Beach, makes it a great spot for surfers, too. You’ll need to carry your board though – the campground can only be accessed by foot.
Activities: walking, surfing, swimming, fishing, camping
Location:
shown on Forest Island - Garie Beach - Otford map
Getting there: You can only walk to this campground, which is along the Coast track. Take public transport to Bundeena or Otford, or drive to Bundeena, Garie Beach or Otford.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: non-flush toilets
Camping fees: $5 per adult per night. $3 per child per night.
Online bookings: use a secure payment facility to book online
Alternatively, please contact the Customer Experience Team on 13000 PARKS (13000 72757) to make a booking.
NB: All reservations incur a booking fee of 2.5% in addition to the total amount payable.
Events, activities and alerts at this location
| Commercial activity | Understand Down Under  1 Day Royal National Park Eco-tour
Your beach and wilderness escape. If you only have one day in Sydney, then this should be it!
Understand Down Under (UDU) invites you on a journey of discovery. Have fun while using all your senses to actively learn about:
- Plants and their traditional uses
- Australian and Aboriginal culture
- Local history and geology
- Australian birds and wildlife
Australia's oldest national park: The Royal National Park is Sydney's hidden secret. It's renowned for its beautiful and diverse natural landscapes, its abundant wildlife and unique local history. It is more than just bush and rainforest - Royal National Park boasts a beautiful coastline and is only 30km away. Instead of sitting on a bus, relax or have fun at the beach.
1 Day Royal National Park Highlights
The UDU mini-bus will take you on a 1 day adventure with a great mix of active discovery & serene relaxation:
- Where it all started, Audley is full of history and fantastic birdlife;
- Discovery Eco-walk - explore the magical Wattamolla. Learn how to live in Australia's bushland and hear dreaming stories;
- Relax over a delicious, uniquely Australian picnic lunch overlooking the Royal's many beaches
- Garie Beach - plenty of time to swim, play Aussie beach games, relax or sunbake. For the more adventurous, climb to the cliff-top for a breathtaking panoramic view
- Throw boomerangs and spears alongside the Hacking River
- Tranquil bushwalk through temperate rainforest
- Afternoon tea with awe-inspiring views from Bald Hill; home to Lawrence Hargraves, Australia's pioneer of flight
- Grand Pacific Drive - take time to see this incredible area, including the distinctive Sea Cliff Bridge
More info: Understand Down Under, Phone: 0448 388 687 (international +61448 388 687) | . |
Pool Flat picnic area
Pool Flat picnic area offers a delightful riverside spot, ideal for a family day out in the popular Audley Weir area. Only an hour from the centre of Sydney, you’ll feel like you and the family are on holiday, even if it’s only for an afternoon.
The kids will love swimming in the tranquil waters of Hacking River, and you’ll love the relaxed setting with the easy option for a delicious lunch or snack at nearby Weir Cafe. If you’re tempted to get out on the water, hire a canoe or two at Audley Boatshed for a paddle along the river.
Just down river from Royal National Park Visitor Centre, it’s a great opportunity to pick up some brochures about walks and other lovely spots to explore in Royal National Park.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching
Location:
shown on Audley map
Getting there: Pool Flat picnic area is in the Audley precinct of Royal National Park. To get there, take Farnell Avenue to Audley then follow the signs.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, flush toilets, carpark
Red Cedar Flat picnic area
Near Otford and in the southern section of Royal National Park, rustic Red Cedar Flat picnic area is an ideal no-fuss lunch spot. Whether you’re on a leisurely car tour of the park, or prepping for an adventure, you’ll be able to pull up and park easily. It’s also an easy spot to check your gear and have a quick bite before heading off on a road cycling tour, or stepping out on one of the many walking tracks on offer in the park.
Arriving at the picnic spot, stretch your legs on a couple of small loop walks nearby. Unpack a picnic on the tables, and enjoy lunch, followed by a bit of birdwatching.
If you’re keen to explore further, try Governor Game lookout in the north, or a stop at nearby Otford lookout – it’s well worth it for spectacular views up and down the coast. If you’re in need of a refreshing swim, head to Garie Beach.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching
Location:
shown on Forest Island - Garie Beach - Otford map
Getting there: Red Cedar Flat picnic area is in the southern precinct of Royal National Park. To get there drive along Lady Wakehurst Drive from Otford for approximately 4km.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: carpark, picnic tables
Reids Flat picnic area
If you’re looking to escape the city for a relaxing day near the river, head to picturesque Reids Flat picnic area, near Audley. In the northern section of Royal National Park, this tucked away spot has scenic river views, superb for a family day out.
The still waters are excellent for swimming and paddling, so bring your own kayak for a fun-filled day celebrating the watery elements. The kids will love canoeing and liloing Hacking River. When it’s time for lunch, spark up a free gas barbecue and cook up a feast, then enjoy it on a rug or one of the nearby picnic tables.
While away a peaceful afternoon on the shady riverbank, or if you’re feeling energetic, set out on one of the nearby walking tracks. On your way home, drop in to Weir Cafe for a delicious afternoon treat.
Activities: stillwater canoeing/kayaking, picnics and barbecues, day walking, birdwatching, fishing
Location:
shown on Audley map
Getting there: Reids Flat picnic area is in the Audley precinct of Royal National Park. To get there, follow Farnell Avenue towards Audley, turn left just before the causeway and follow the signs.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, gas/electric barbecues (free), flush toilets, drinking water, carpark, trackhead/access point
Uloola Falls campground
Who would have thought you could be so close to the city and yet so far from civilisation? Uloola Falls campground in Royal National Park is a great nature getaway, especially if you're looking for things to do near Sydney.
For a relaxing start to your weekend escape, catch the train. Don’t forget your hiking boots because this campground is reached via the long Uloola Falls walking track or the medium difficulty Karloo walking track. If you’re particularly adventurous, you can cycle there on your mountain bike.
Passing through heathlands, you’ll be bathed in colour by the wildflower displays in spring. Keep an eye out for the gymea lilly with its single stem and vibrant red flower.
Once you arrive, set up camp beside picturesque Uloola Falls and sleep under the stars. Your only distraction here will be the splash of the waterfall as it hits the rock pool below.
Activities: camping, swimming, fishing, astronomy and star gazing, picnics and barbecues, birdwatching
Location:
shown on park map
Getting there: Uloola Falls campground is in the Uloola precinct of Royal National Park. To get there, take Uloola walking track from behind Waterfall Station or Karloo walking track, near Heathcote, on Princes Highway.
Facilities: non-flush toilets, trackhead/access point
Camping fees: $5 per adult per night. $3 per child per night.
Online bookings: use a secure payment facility to book online
Alternatively, please contact the Customer Experience Team on 13000 PARKS (13000 72757) to make a booking.
NB: All reservations incur a booking fee of 2.5% in addition to the total amount payable.
Warumbul picnic area
For a secluded bush picnic beside the pretty waterways of South West Arm, try the short walk to Warumbul picnic area in the northern section of Royal National Park, past Audley. You’ll feel a long way from the hustle and bustle beside the tranquil shores of Port Hacking.
It’s a short walk to this lovely bush setting and if you’re feeling energetic and have a bike, why not cycle in along the firetrail? Unpack a picnic at one of the tables and enjoy a relaxing lunch as you soak in the pretty views across the water to Gooseberry Bay and Costens Point.
After lunch, lie back and listen to the birds or explore the shoreline. It’s easy to while away a relaxing afternoon in this tranquil setting. On the way home, you might be tempted to stop by the Weir Cafe for a delicious coffee and cake.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching
Location:
shown on park map
Getting there: Warumbul picnic area is in the Port Hacking precinct of Royal National Park. To get there:
- Follow Farnell Avenue past Audley for approximately 2km
- Turn left in Warumbul Road and drive for approximately 3km
Road access: Unsealed road/trail - no motor vehicle access.
Facilities: picnic tables, flush toilets, drinking water, carpark
Waterfall Flat picnic area
Waterfall Flat picnic area could be your first port of call on a day trip to Royal National Park. Near Waterfall, it’s also a great spot for getting the bikes out ready for a cycle tour, or a perfect spot to pull in for a bush picnic, just off Princes Highway.
Unpack a picnic on the tables and enjoy a quick bite with bushland views. The large grassy areas are an ideal spot for the kids to have a run around on a quick pit stop before exploring the park.
Keep your eyes peeled for birds and wildlife as the surrounding heath attracts nectar loving birds such as the lewins honey eater and wattlebirds. For a nearby walk to enjoy more of the park, check out Couranga walking track.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching
Location:
shown on Forest Island - Garie Beach - Otford map
Getting there: Waterfall Flat picnic area is in the Waterfall precinct of Royal National Park. To get there from Waterfall Station, follow McKell Avenue for approximately 1km and follow the signs.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: carpark, picnic tables
Wattamolla picnic area
When you’re pining for the feel of sand between your toes, take the family and head to Wattamolla picnic area in Royal National Park. With loads of options to keep everyone happy, this is a popular place to base yourself while you’re exploring the park.
The kids will love the calm waters of the lagoon for snorkelling, swimming and liloing. Unpack a picnic under the shade of the cabbage tree palms and do some serious unwinding, or head to the beach for a spot of fishing.
After enjoying a barbecue lunch, go for a walk along one of the beach tracks, with a prize for the first to see a sea eagle or oystercatcher.
Activities: walking, swimming, picnics and barbecues, fishing, birdwatching, whale watching
Location:
shown on park map
Getting there: Wattamolla picnic area is in the eastern section of Royal National Park. To get there from Audley:
- Follow Sir Bertram Stevens Drive for approximately 11km
- Turn left onto Wattamolla Road 200m past the Bundeena turn off
- Drive along Wattamolla road for approximately 4km
To get there by car from Waterfall train station:
- Follow McKell Avenue to the end of the road
- Turn left into Sir Steven Bertram Road
- Drive for approximately 9km
- Turn left into Wattamolla Road and drive for approximately 5km
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, gas/electric barbecues (free), carpark, flush toilets, trackhead/access point
Events, activities and alerts at this location
| Commercial activity | Sydney Coast Walks Sydney Coast Walks are the Sydney walking people. With some of the city's best natural beauty only accessible on foot, Sydney Coast Walks provides expertly guided half day, full day and overnight hiking adventures through Sydney Harbour and Royal National Parks, enabling guests to reconnect with nature in Australia's largest city. Small groups, maximum 12 guests, for a better walking experience.
Sydney Harbour National Park Walking Tours
Royal National Park Walking Tours
- Jibbon Aboriginal Tour Learn the traditions of the Dharawal Aboriginal people, view thousand-year-old rock carvings and listen to Dreaming stories.
- Marley Explore Royal's majestic sandstone coastline on a full day walk.
- Wattamolla (Coast Track) Discover awe-inspiring views and fascinating history as you hike the iconic Coast Track. Enjoy a fully catered and supported camping experience.
When: year-round. Bookings essential. More info: Sydney Coast Walks, Phone: 02 8521 7423 (international +612 8521 7423) | As required |
Wattle Forest picnic area
One of the more popular picnic spots in Royal National Park, Wattle Forest picnic area offers scenic water views on the banks of Hacking River, just south of Audley. Easily accessible from Sydney and Sutherland, it’s a great spot for a family day trip, with the option to relax by the river or discover the delights of the park by walking track or bicycle.
You could be tempted to while away a lazy afternoon in the shade by the river, serenaded by the cockatoos and currawongs, or join the kids for some swimming. When it’s time for lunch, spark up the barbecues and cook up a sausage feast to satisfy the hungry hoards.
If you’re inspired to explore, step out on nearby Uloola walking track or bring the mountain bikes for a great ride along picturesque Lady Carrington drive.
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching, fishing, swimming
Location:
shown on Audley map
Getting there: Wattle Forest picnic area is in the Audley precinct of Royal National Park. To get there follow Farnell Avenue and take a right turn after Weir Cafe. From here, head over Varneys Bridge and follow the signs.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Facilities: picnic tables, flush toilets, drinking water, gas/electric barbecues (free), carpark, trackhead/access point
Weemalah Cottage (3 bedrooms, up to 8 people)
For that far away feeling, only an hour from Sydney, head for the secluded charm of Weemalah Cottage in Royal National Park. Nestled on the banks of the picturesque Hacking River, this waterfront oasis is a great weekend getaway for a small group of friends or family.
Make the most of your holiday and spend your days swimming or fishing on the river. Explore the lush waterfalls on Winifred Falls walking track or spend a lazy afternoon soaking up the scenic riverside views. You might see goannas, wallabies and even eastern water dragons sunning themselves on the riverbanks.
After spending the day fishing along the river, return to Weemalah to enjoy a drink on the verandah as the sun sets. Settle in for a peaceful evening and be soothed to sleep by the sounds of the forest and the gently flowing river.
Activities: walking, birdwatching, swimming, fishing
Getting there: Weemalah Cottage is located on the foreshore of Hacking River and is approximately 29km south of Sydney.
To get there from Sydney:
- Continue along Princes Highway
- Turn left into Farnell Avenue, Audley (Royal National Park).
- Proceed along Farnell Avenue to Audley Weir
- Take Sir Bertram Stephens Drive approximately 2km to Warumbul Road
- Turn left and continue on Warumbul Road to the junction of Rathane Road
- Go straight ahead onto an unsealed road and continue along Warumbul Road for approximately 3km
- Turn right into an informal carpark with a large tree in the centre
- At the southern end of this carpark, you'll find a locked gate.
- The cottage is approximately 300m from the gate
Road access: Unsealed road/trail - 2WD (no long vehicle access). 4WD required in wet weather.
Facilities: accommodation
Vehicle entry fee: $11 per vehicle per day.
Accommodation fees:
- Peak (min 3-night stay): $300 per night. Special: 5 nights or more at $220 per night.
- Shoulder (min 2-night stay): $220 per night. Special: 5 nights or more at $190 per night.
- Off-peak (min 2-night stay): $190 per night. Special: 5 nights or more at $160 per night.
Online bookings: use a secure payment facility to book online
Alternatively, please contact the Customer Experience Team on 13000 PARKS (13000 72757).
NB: All reservations incur a booking fee of 2.5% in addition to the total amount payable
Weir Café
Wheelchair access: easy
This area is fully wheelchair accessible
It took two years and a multi-million dollar refurbishment, but when Audley Dance Hall at Audley Weir reopened in 2011, Weir Café quickly made it the destination for visitors looking for a bite to eat in Royal National Park. Set amid native bushland with views over Hacking River, the café is a perfect place to kick back over breakfast or a hearty lunch. Birds forage on the lawn and rowboats drift across the river, with leaves falling from the trees in autumn. Royal National Park has always been a popular destination for Sydneysiders, and this is one more reason to make the pilgrimage out from the city.
For a sample menu or for more information go to www.weircafe.com.au
Activities: picnics and barbecues, birdwatching, paddling, sailing and boating
Location:
shown on Audley map
Getting there: On entering Royal National Park:
- From Farnell Avenue at Loftus, follow Audley Road down to Hacking River. The visitor centre is on Lady Carrington Drive just after crossing the weir.
- From McKell Avenue at Waterfall, follow Sir Bertram Stevens Drive all the way. The visitor centre is the last building on the left before crossing the weir.
Road access: Sealed road - 2WD vehicles.
Opening hours: Weir Café is:
- open 8:30am – 5:30pm (Monday – Friday)
- open 8:30am – 7pm (Saturday – Sunday)
Facilities: picnic tables, cafe/kiosk, flush toilets, drinking water, public phone, trackhead/access point, venue, visitor centre, carpark
Bookings: Phone: (02) 9542 6222 (Weir Café) and (02) 9542 6066 (The Audley Room)
Email: reservations@weircafe.com.au
Website: www.weircafe.com.au and www.audleyroom.com.au
