Halfway between Sydney and Melbourne in the heart of country New South Wales, the picturesque riverside town of Yass welcomes you. Only a stone’s throw from the Hume Highway and just up the road from Canberra, this historic town is absolutely brimming with heritage and grand architecture, fine food, wine and local creative talent. So much more than just a highway stopover, Yass is a town with endless opportunity, so don’t just pass by - stop in to discover the beauty and country charm that Yass has to offer.
History in the Heart of the Country
Comur Street, the town’s historic main street, is where your visit to Yass begins. What was once a stretch of the busy Hume Highway has been transformed back into a lively and attractive main thoroughfare. After picking up your Hertz rental car, make your way through into the centre of town and discover this lively and well-preserved main street. The beauty of this street is an invitation to get out of the car and discover it on foot - an amble down this tree-lined strip will reveal a heritage streetscape of gorgeous old buildings converted to buzzing cafes and restaurants, charming antique shops and quaint gift shops. The Yass Historic Walk is the perfect introduction to the history and heritage of the town, and gives context to the grandeur of the gorgeous old buildings around you - some of the finest in the state. Connecting 35 heritage buildings around the town, this short walk is a great way to see the highlights of town at your own leisurely pace. For a pick-me-up along the way, stop in at Trader & Co for a delicious and healthy breakfast or light lunch, paired with a specialty coffee from their very own in-house roastery.
Occupying the ground floor of the Yass Memorial Hall, you’ll find Tyger Gallery, a local hidden gem. This contemporary, relaxed and friendly art space is one of the finest galleries in the region. Specialising in contemporary Australian Art, the gallery is all about supporting local artists and creators, with year-round exhibitions showcasing some of the region’s emerging and established artists.
At the northern end of Cormut Street is the picturesque Yass River, which winds its way through the town. The river is lined with lovely gardens and parklands, the perfect place to enjoy a slice of nature right in town. Enjoy a picnic of fresh local produce and a local wine from Thyme to Taste, or take a stroll along the riverside walking trail and take in the picturesque views - the perfect way to spend an afternoon. If you do decide to enjoy a wine, make sure you nominate a designated driver if you’ll be driving.
If you’re staying locally, treat yourself to a luxurious stay in the heart of the Canberra Wine region. Just 15 minutes from Yass, Abode Murrumbateman is a stylish and contemporary retreat. Located just minutes away from the sleepy hamlet of Murrumbateman, Abode is the perfect place to call home during your visit to Yass and surrounds, and is an ideal base for adventures further afield in your Hertz rental car.
Discover the greater Yass Valley Region
Beyond the historic town of Yass, the rolling green hills, sprawling vineyards and rugged National Parks of the Yass valley region make for an excellent day out. Pick up coffee and a delicious baked treat from Clementine Bakery Murrumbateman before packing up your Hertz rental car for an adventure-filled road trip through the region.
No visit to the Yass Valley is complete without a self-drive tour of the region’s award winning wineries and cellar doors. On the list: Dog Trap Vineyard, Gallagher Wines, Helm Wines and Four Winds Vineyard, to name a few. Our tip - make Four Winds your lunch stop. On the menu; charcuterie platters, local cheese platters and delicious wood-fired pizzas to pair with a wine of your choice. Of course, if you do decide to enjoy a wine or two while you’re out and about in the region, do ensure you have a designated driver nominated.
Nature lovers will appreciate the rich natural beauty and variety of outdoor experiences on offer in the Yass Valley. For a nature-based day trip just outside of Yass, Brindabella National Park is hard to beat. An easy hour’s drive away in your Hertz rental car, this sprawling and rugged landscape is home to walking trails, pristine alpine lakes, waterfalls and panoramic lookouts that will take your breath away.
Yass is a vibrant, charming and captivating destination just waiting to be discovered. If you’re after an authentic and awe-inspiring country escape, why not head off the beaten track and venture that little bit further? However you decide to do Yass and surrounds, Hertz will ensure your travels around the region are a breeze.
