Find some winter warmth in a day – or overnight – trip to Yass Valley

City folk might be shivering through winter, but there’s plenty of activities and attractions in Yass Valley. Take a trip, get the blood pumping and make some memories!

If you want something to do during the day, make a stop at Wee Jasper Distillery or Murrumbateman Winery to see what they have on offer (and maybe something to sip on to warm your insides). A visit to Blackwattle Alpaca Farm is a family-friendly option sure to generate special memories for the entire team.

As for where to lay your head at night, The Old Church Bookham is a renovated church and accepts pets. Or embrace the country lifestyle at the four-bedroom Warroo Homestead on a working farm.

Wee Jasper Distillery

Opening hours: Friday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm
Location: 6494 Wee Jasper Road, Wee Jasper

Established in 2018 by mother and daughter duo Shannon and Jennie Kellett, Wee Jasper Distillery is located in the village a short distance from Yass. On the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, they distill gin and vodkas, and produce natural cordials with leftover citrus. Visitors can also have a cup of coffee and some light refreshments.

Murrumbateman Winery

Opening hours: Seven days, 10 am to 5 pm
Location: 131 McIntosh Circuit, Murrumbateman

The region surrounding Canberra is known for its wines, and Murrumbateman is no exception. Established in 1973, this boutique winery is under the care of winemaker Bobbie Makin. If you see rescue dog Mollie, say hello (and give her a scratch behind the ear) – she is often at the cellar door, which is also dog-friendly.

Warroo Homestead

Available dates: See listing
Location: 15 minutes from Yass and an hour from Canberra (exact location given when booking is made)

This property was built in the 1930s, but you can now bring the family or friends out into the country for a few days to soak up the country life. There are four bedrooms at this Airbnb property, which also has fireplaces, a 14-metre saltwater pool, full kitchen with coffee machine and reverse-cycle central heating. A large verandah provides a space to watch the sun go down as you cook dinner on the hooded gas barbecue. If you’re lucky, you will see sheep roaming the paddocks of the working farm.

The Old Church Bookham

Available dates: check-in at 4 pm, check out at 10 am; book online
Location: 20 Fagan Drive, Bookham

This is one holiday you can bring the furry friends on! The Old Bookham Church has been transformed into accommodation by the descendants of one of the families that built it. Formerly known as St Columba’s Catholic Church, it now offers plenty of room with two bedrooms and two double sofa beds. There is also a full kitchen and barbecue for the chefs in the family, as well as a range of oven-ready meals that can be ordered from a dinner menu. Outside the historic building, there’s a garden space where you can sit with a morning coffee or relax after a long day.

Blackwattle Alpaca Farm

Opening hours: Thursday to Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm
Location: 315 Patemans Lane, Murrumbateman

Alpacas and llamas may be well-known symbols of South America, but this is your chance to meet the animals on this continent. Blackwattle Alpaca Farm offerings include farm tours, hand-feeding of the animals, picnics and a birthday experience for visitors. There is also an on-site cafe if you get peckish during your visit and a shop where you can find some souvenirs and merchandise, including hand-dyed yarn.