Jugiong

Jugiong

The picturesque riverside village at the gateway to the Hilltops.
Nestled on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, just minutes off the Hume Highway, Jugiong is a picturesque village offering a delightful blend of history, hospitality, and modern indulgence. Located 90 minutes from Canberra and 20 minutes from Gundagai, it’s the perfect entry point to the Hilltops Region.

The beautifully restored Jugiong General Store houses the iconic Long Track Pantry, a beloved café and produce store serving hearty breakfasts, home-style lunches, and a selection of house-made jams, chutneys, and sauces. Open daily (except Tuesdays) from 8 am to 4 pm, it’s a must-visit for food lovers and road-trippers alike.

For those seeking rest and relaxation, Jugiong now boasts a boutique day spa offering facials, massages, body scrubs, and infrared sauna sessions – perfect for a wellness weekend or indulgent stopover.

Accommodation in Jugiong includes a well-appointed motel as well as a range of farmstays and B&Bs offering river views and village charm. It’s a wonderful place to stay a night or two and soak up the peaceful surrounds.

The historic Sir George hotel combines 1850s architecture with elegant modern design. It features a restaurant known for its seasonal, paddock-to-plate menu and houses a stylish retail space offering homewares, fashion and local treasures.
For those who love the outdoors, Jugiong’s riverside recreation grounds include a 25-metre pool, skate park, tennis courts (with keys available from the Pantry), and free camping areas along the riverbank. There are also lovely walking spots and picnic areas throughout the village.

Superstars such as Matt Damon have been spotted in this quaint highway town – and once you’ve experienced Jugiong’s charm, you’ll understand why. Whether you’re looking for a great meal, a bit of pampering, or a peaceful overnight break, Jugiong is a beautiful village that’s well worth the detour.

A Moment in History

In November 1864, the notorious bushrangers Ben Hall, Johnny Gilbert, and John Dunn held up the Gundagai mail coach near Jugiong. During the attempted robbery, Sergeant Edmund Parry and Inspector O’Neil returned fire in defence. Parry was tragically killed in the exchange, after refusing to surrender. Gilbert later admitted Parry was the first man he had ever killed. A memorial cairn, built by the NSW branch of the Wild Colonial Days Society, now stands near the site of the shooting and commemorates the bravery of Sergeant Parry. Unveiled on the 104th anniversary of his death by the NSW Police Commissioner, the cairn remains a solemn reminder of Jugiong’s dramatic colonial past.