Ancona

Ancona, a tiny hamlet nestled in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, is the kind of place that feels like a well-kept secret. Surrounded by rolling hills, wildflower-strewn meadows, and the headwaters of the Murrumbidgee River, this former gold-mining settlement now offers a serene escape for nature lovers and history buffs alike. With its heritage-listed buildings, crystal-clear trout streams, and proximity to the Kosciuszko National Park, Ancona is a perfect stop on a self-drive itinerary through the Monaro region.

Highlights & What to See

• Ancona Church & Cemetery – The tiny 1860s Anglican church and adjacent cemetery are a poignant reminder of the gold-rush era, with weathered headstones telling stories of early settlers.
• Murrumbidgee River Headwaters – Walk to the source of this iconic river, where you can picnic beside crystal-clear pools and spot platypus at dawn or dusk.
• Wildflower Walks – In spring, the hills around Ancona erupt in colour with native flowers, including golden wattles and purple hoveas.
• Fly-Fishing on the Numeralla River – A short drive away, this river is renowned for its brown and rainbow trout; bring your gear or hire a local guide.
• Cooma Cottage (Yass) – While not in Ancona, this historic property is worth a detour for its connection to explorer Hamilton Hume.

Suggested Time to Spend

Ancona itself is a brief stop – allow 1–2 hours to explore the church, cemetery, and river headwaters. Most travellers combine it with a day’s fishing or bushwalking in nearby Kosciuszko National Park, so plan a half-day to a full day in the area. If you’re self-driving, it’s an easy lunch stop between Canberra and the Snowy Mountains.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cooma – The main service town of the Snowy Mountains, with excellent museums, cafes, and the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre.
• Kosciuszko National Park – Home to Australia’s highest peak, plus skiing in winter and hiking in summer.
• Numeralla Village – A charming historic village with a pub and excellent fishing spots.
• Canberra – The national capital is 90 minutes north, offering world-class museums, galleries, and dining.
• Bredbo – A quirky roadside stop with a renowned bakery and antique shops.

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