Living in Appin Grove: Things to Do in Appin Community

With a backdrop of natural beauty and boasting plenty of country charm, Appin Grove Estate is emerging as one of the Illawarra region’s most exciting new home developments. 

Beyond its beautiful bushland setting, the Appin community offers a great mix of local attractions and day-to-day amenities. 

When it comes to lifestyle, Appin has plenty to offer that families will adore. There's everything from scenic bushwalks and local cafés to historical landmarks and community events; there's more to this growing township than meets the eye. Let’s take a closer look at the best things to do in and around the area when you start living in Appin Grove.
 

Is the Appin Community a Good Place to Live?

Only a short drive from Campbelltown and Wollongong, the Appin Grove development is a wonderful place to live, especially if you're looking to move to a suburb with peaceful surroundings and all the modern conveniences you could wish for. 

Families love it for the parks, future schools and retail hubs, and first-home buyers are drawn to the quality homes and long-term value. For anyone craving more room to breathe without leaving opportunity behind, Appin Grove ticks all the boxes. 

Surrounded by bushland yet well connected to major centres, it’s easy to see why more people are making the move to the Appin community.

Appin Grove Restaurants: 5 Best Places to Eat

While it may be a small town, Appin Grove still has lots of hidden gems that foodies will love to get out and discover. To get you started, here are our top spots that are sure to impress your taste buds and make you feel right at home.

Appin Hotel Bistro

A long-standing favourite, the Appin Hotel Bistro offers the perfect mix of country hospitality and classic pub dining. Their chicken schnitzel and steak options are local legends, and with generous portions, daily specials and a relaxed beer garden, it’s the kind of place where everyone from families to mates can catch up and always feel welcome. 

Gather Coffee House

Gather Coffee House is the go-to café for Appin locals wanting to grab a great coffee, treat themselves to one of their baked goods straight from the oven or enjoy a wholesome all-day breakfast. With its rustic decor, welcoming staff and community vibe, it’s perfect for morning meetups or a quiet brunch. Don’t leave without trying their house-made banana bread or seasonal toasties.

Vaby’s Restaurant (nearby in Picton)

Just a short drive from Appin, Vaby’s Restaurant in Picton offers a wide variety of modern Aussie dishes —from gourmet burgers to slow-cooked lamb falling off the bone. Known for its warm, family-friendly atmosphere and generous servings, it’s a great option for date nights or getting out of the kitchen and enjoying a traditional Sunday roast.

Campbelltown Catholic Club (The CUBE)

For something with a bit more buzz, just head on over to the Campbelltown Catholic Club, just 20 minutes from Appin. With multiple dining options including Embers Bar & Grill and The Dove & Shears, you’ll find everything from woodfired pizzas to upscale bistro fare. It’s ideal for group dinners or a night out with entertainment.

Dough Re Mi Bakery

A beloved local bakery, Dough Re Mi is all about fresh pastries, artisan bread and traditional favourites like pies and sausage rolls. It’s a great stop for breakfast on the go or a sweet treat after lunch. Their apple turnovers and sourdough loaves have quite the local following — one bite and you'll understand why!

Things to do in Apin: Top Activities in Appin’s Community

Appin Grove may have a relaxed rural charm about it, but there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors with your family, stay active or connect with nature and community. If you're wondering about what there is to do in Appin, here are some of the top spots Eden Brae recommends around the local area:

Cataract Dam

Situated not far from town is one of the oldest and most scenic water supply dams in NSW, Cataract Dam. While you can't swim or get out on the water (it's part of Sydney’s protected drinking water catchment), Cataract Dam is surrounded by beautiful bushland, and there's designated picnic/barbecue grounds. Visitors can enjoy a nice walk around the lookouts, explore the heritage-listed architecture, spot some native wildlife or simply relax by the water. Be sure to pack your camera because the dam wall offers some stunning views and photo opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Appin Skate Park and Reserve

A central hub for kids, teens and active families, the Appin Skate Park and Reserve has something for everyone. The skate park features ramps and rails for tricks, while the surrounding reserve includes open lawns, shaded picnic tables and a playground for you to relax and hang out. 

Dharawal National Park

Located just minutes from Appin, this park offers bushwalking trails, waterfalls and culturally significant Aboriginal sites. The Minerva Pool Walking Track definitely stands out. It's a moderately easy walking trail that leads to a sacred freshwater pool surrounded by rock platforms and native bush. You should note that swimming is only permitted in designated areas, and some have certain provisions out of respect for Aboriginal traditions.

Appin House & Heritage Walk

Part of the town’s rich heritage trail, Appin House is one of the oldest European settlements in the region. You can take a self-guided stroll through the beautifully restored 19th century home, the picturesque estate, and its surrounding heritage-listed and significant buildings, churches, cemeteries and landmarks. You’ll find interpretive signs along the way, sharing stories of early European settlers, local Aboriginal heritage and key moments from Appin’s past.

Simpson’s Lookout

For panoramic views over the Nepean River, head to Simpson’s Lookout. Not far from Appin’s town centre, it’s a peaceful spot for reflection, taking photographs or simply enjoying a quiet moment taking in the sweeping valley views.

Wilton Recreation Reserve

Just outside Appin, Wilton Recreation Reserve offers wide-open spaces, sports fields and community facilities. Ideal for weekend soccer games, picnics and gatherings, it’s a great way to spend the day outdoors without straying far from home.

Make Appin Grove Your Home With Eden Brae

From its charming village atmosphere and scenic bushland surroundings to its growing list of attractions and community hubs, there are lots of things to do in Appin Grove. With easy access to national parks, historic sites, great local cafés and exciting future infrastructure, families are moving to Appin because it’s one of the Illawarra’s most appealing places to live.

At Eden Brae Homes, we’re proud to bring thoughtful, high-quality homes to the heart of Appin Grove. Our homes are designed to reflect how modern Aussies want to live — with comfort, flexibility and long-term value in mind.