Gourdon

Perched on the edge of the Eurobodalla National Park, Gourdon is a tiny, off-the-beaten-path hamlet on the South Coast of New South Wales. It's the kind of place where the main road is a gravel track and the soundtrack is the crash of waves against the headland. For travellers seeking solitude, raw coastal beauty, and a genuine taste of the Australian bush meeting the sea, Gourdon delivers an unpolished, soul-stirring experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Gourdon Beach & Headland: A wild, patrolled-only-in-summer beach with powerful surf and dramatic rock platforms. Walk to the northern end for panoramic views across the Pacific.
• Eurobodalla National Park Walks: The park envelopes the village. The Gourdon Headland Walking Track (2 km return) offers cliff-top views, whale-watching vantage points (May–November), and a chance to spot sea eagles.
• Mystery Bay: A short drive south, this sheltered cove is perfect for a calm swim or kayak, flanked by spotted gum forest.
• Montague Island: Visible offshore, this seabird and seal colony can be visited on guided tours from nearby Narooma – a must for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Bingi Dreaming Track: A 13-km coastal walk linking Gourdon to Dalmeny, weaving through heathland and past ancient Aboriginal middens.

Suggested Time to Spend

Gourdon itself is a fleeting stop – half a day is plenty to walk the headland and dip your toes in the surf. However, to truly absorb the area's coastal magic, base yourself here for 2–3 days. Use Gourdon as a quiet launchpad for exploring the Eurobodalla National Park, Montague Island tours, and the laid-back towns of Narooma and Dalmeny. Mornings are best for beach walks and birdwatching; afternoons for exploring further afield.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Narooma (15 min south): A vibrant fishing town with a famous bridge over the Wagonga Inlet, the Australia Rock, and boat tours to Montague Island.
• Dalmeny (10 min north): A quiet beachside suburb with a golf course, lake, and easy access to the Bingi Dreaming Track.
• Bodalla (20 min inland): Historic dairy village known for Bodalla Cheese – stop for a tasting and picnic supplies.
• Mogo (30 min north): A former gold-rush town turned artisan village, with the excellent Mogo Wildlife Park and boutique galleries.
• Batemans Bay (40 min north): The region's main hub, offering the Clyde River oyster trail, the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden, and bridge views.

Please check official sources for current details.