Around Ben Ricketts
Ben Ricketts is two hours south of Sydney on the Illawarra escarpment, 8 km west of Jamberoo Village. The cabins are close to the coast and the Southern Highlands, well known areas for great beaches, festivals, markets, arts and crafts and fine dining. Barren Grounds Nature Reserve, Budderoo National Park, Gerringong Falls, Carrington Falls and Minnamurra Rainforest are ideal bushwalking and scenic destinations nearby.
Walks on Ben Ricketts
Our marked walking tracks 'Sassafras' and 'QWERTY' pass through rainforest and tall eucalypts and cross untouched creeks and waterfalls.
They offer opportunities to see our rich variety of native plants, birds and animals. You are welcome to explore off the tracks as well. You can have a great adventure without going more than a few metres from your cabin!
​
A walk along Misty Lane in the evening is one of the delights of a stay at Ben Ricketts. As the afternoon sun lights the escarpment you will enjoy the sight of the local kangaroos grazing in the open fields, while as the light fades wombats are increasingly plentiful.
Barren Grounds Nature Reserve
There is a variety of walks at this Nature Reserve including the Griffiths Trail, an 8km loop taking in the Natural Stone Bridge & IIllawarra Lookout.
Carrington and Gerringong Falls
Carrington Falls has walking tracks to lookouts with spectacular views of the Upper Kangaroo Valley and is readily accessible to all. Gerringong Falls is a longer walk for the more experienced walker.
Illawarra Fly
Just up the road from Ben Ricketts, Illawarra Fly is a spectactular tree top walk with incredible views over the valley.
Jamberoo Recreation Park
Jamberoo Recreation Park is a great place for the family and is a short drive from Ben Ricketts
Beaches
There are several popular beaches at coastal town of Kiama approximately 20 minutes drive from Ben Ricketts.
Nellies Glen & Blue Pool
Swimming Holes
Nellies Glen and Blue Pool swimming holes, both very near Carrington Falls, are great places to cool off on a hot day, with excellent swimming and plenty of shade.
Minnamurra Rainforest
Minnamurra Rainforest offers accessible and easy walks through spectacular rainforest terrain. It includes restaurant facilities and National Parks Visitors Centre
Nearby towns and villages
Down the hill, Jamberoo village boasts its famous pub and some good antiques shopping. Kiama boasts its beachside lifestyle and the spectacular Blowhole.
​
Up the mountain, Robertson is your gateway to the Southern Highlands, and all that they offer.
​
All local towns and villages offer food and other shopping.