Exploring Batemans Bay and Mogo.
First on the list is Mogo Village, a quaint little town just 15 minutes south of Batemans Bay. The charming shops are perfect for browsing, and you can easily spend a few hours exploring them. There's something for everyone here.
Of course, there's also Mogo Zoo, just 15 minutes south of Batemans Bay. Over the years, it has become a cherished destination for my family. I started visiting the zoo with my own children, and now I have the joy of taking my grandchildren to experience it.
Every visit to Mogo Wildlife Park is a new adventure, especially for kids. With a wide range of animals offering up-close views. From majestic lions to playful meerkats. My favorite is the meerkats. They are just so adorable and I must admit I took more photos of these cute little critters than I did of any other animal. We watched them for some time as they dug, foraged, and interacted with each other.
In Batemans Bay, there are also a few great lunch spots including Deli on Perry and the Starfish which is on the waterfront and are our go-to place to grab some lunch or dinner.
Some other nearby sites are the Glasshouse Rocks and Bar Rock Lookout at Narooma, well worth the visit as the rock formations are just breathtaking.
My last trip was with my mum, and it was right after the bushfires had swept through the area. Despite the visible damage, it was still such an interesting place to explore. We even enjoyed some delicious cake and coffee at the café.
I'm heading back down there again in September, and I'm thinking of revisiting the gardens. With spring in full swing, it should be a wonderful time to go. I imagine the gardens will be bursting with new life, vibrant blooms, and fresh greenery. It will be fascinating to see how the area has recovered and transformed since our last visit.
For families with kids who love the water, renting kayaks is another fantastic option. Just 20 minutes south of Batemans Bay and 15 minutes north of Moruya, you'll find the beautiful Tomaga River. This unique tidal estuary, nestled between these two towns, is an ideal spot for a kayaking adventure.
Paddling along the Tomaga River, you'll experience the tranquility of the water and the stunning natural surroundings. The kids will have a blast exploring the river, spotting wildlife, and maybe even having a friendly splash or two. The Tomaga River area is a perfect spot for a family day out. Pack a picnic, bring your binoculars for bird-watching, and don't forget your camera to capture the beautiful scenery at Mossy Point.
Once you reach Nelligen, there's a 20-minute stop where you can stretch your legs, explore a small park, and maybe grab a treat at the snack shop. It's a perfect little break, especially for families with kids. Speaking of kids, they might get a bit restless during the cruise, so it's a great idea to bring along a book or some small games to keep them entertained.
While Pooh Bear’s Corner has occasionally fallen victim to graffiti and fires, the sign and stuffed toys always return. More recently, some visitors have taken to leaving supplies for Pooh, namely honey and beer.
There's an ever-growing collection of rocking horses perched on not just one, but now two fallen logs, visible from the King's Highway near the foot of the Clyde. It's become quite the local curiosity!
The first rocking horse is said to have appeared around October 2020, right after the devastating 'Black Summer' bushfires. But who put it there and why? Well, that's where the mystery deepens.
Some folks speculate that it's a roadside memorial, others think it might be a lighthearted prank by kids on break, eager to leave a quirky mark on the landscape. There's even a theory that it's a whimsical take on a 'zebra crossing,' adding a bit of humor and charm to the highway.
Whatever the reason, these rocking horses have sparked plenty of conversations and theories. They've become a beloved, if enigmatic, part of the local scenery. Each time you pass by, you can't help but smile and wonder about the story behind these wooden steeds standing sentinel on their logs. Maybe one day we'll uncover the true tale, but for now, the mystery only adds to their charm.
Note that it's not an easy place to stop at, you have to park a distance away and walk.
As I continue to work through my photo archives, I plan to share even more of these memories via this Blog.
Stay tuned for more posts where I’ll dive deeper into these experiences, sharing the photos and memories that make each visit special. Your support and interest mean a lot to me. Leave a comment about this post and tell me what you think?
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