FUN FOR ALL
Surrounded by national parks and with a strong whaling history, it’s no surprise that Eden boasts some great marine and wildlife centres and a comprehensive whale museum — all of which are a must-see when in town.
Eden Killer Whale Museum
The Eden Killer Whale Museum has been telling Eden’s stories for more than 80 years and is home to one of the only orca skeletons in the world — Old Tom, Eden’s famous killer whale. Old Tom was the most boisterous of the killer whales that hunted baleen whales with the Davidson family in the 1800s. At times, Old Tom and the pod numbered up to 36, many of which were known by name to the whalers. Before European settlement, the orcas had a special relationship with the local Yuin people and it was through this connection that they bonded with the whalers, whose crews often included Yuin men. A visit here is not complete with spending time on the vast sun-drenched deck that overlooks Twofold Bay. It’s a great place to watch whales, and if you spot one, the staff will sound a siren to let the whole town know a whale can be seen from shore.
Potoroo Palace
Potoroo Palace is a small not-for-profit native wildlife sanctuary, home to many familiar and lesser-known species of Australian animals. Many of the animals at the sanctuary are native to the Sapphire Coast area and some are very rare. Kangaroos, emus and wallabies and all manner of birds roam freely in the grounds. Closer encounters can also be arranged with some of the shyer animal residents. Make a day of it and stop for lunch, or just enjoy a delicious coffee in the Blue Wren Café, while browsing a selection of Australian-made merchandise. Or bring your own picnic and enjoy some time out next to the shady dams and BBQs. Educational talks are held at 11am and 2pm, and train rides and animal feedbags are available for all the family. Potoroo Palace is open seven days a week throughout the year, 10am–4pm (closed Christmas Day) and is a 25-minute drive south of Eden.
Eden Sports & Recreation Club
A superb 18 hole Championship golf course and one of the Sapphire Coasts real hidden gems. The Eden Sports & Recreation Club was recently described by one golf scribe as the “Augusta National of the Far South Coast”. This John Spencer designed golf course will challenge your golf while you enjoy beautiful surroundings. Social players are welcome every day. There are several competition days including a Pro Comp Medley every Tuesday along with Ladies Golf, Men and Ladies Golf on Saturday plus Dads Army on Sundays.
Magic Mountain Merimbula
Welcome to Merimbula’s iconic family fun park. Conquer the rollercoaster, drive the (mini) Grand Prix cars, shoot down the waterslides, fly down the stainless steel toboggan ride, play mini golf, discover the dinosaurs in Triassic Park, bounce on the jumping castle and finish up on the Magic Carpet Slide. There are so many choices and they’re all so much fun! Bring a picnic, use the BBQs, or grab lunch and a cuppa from the converted Melbourne tram.
Tree Climb [Magic Mountain]
Take your family on a challenge among the trees, overlooking the stunning Merimbula peninsula. Catering to nature lovers and thrill seekers alike, the Tree Climb Challenge is an adventure experience offering something a little different to excite you — and perhaps even scare you a bit. The Tree Climb Challenge has three courses together offering more than 30 amazing challenges. Climb among the trees and fly over the park at exhilarating speeds, with rope bridges, high wires and wooden obstacles along the way. Each Tree Climb Challenge session is two hours, which includes access to all courses, safety equipment and training.
