Bundanon: Arthur Boyd's Riverside Art Museum Near Jervis Bay
Bundanon is a genuinely unmissable cultural experience within reach of Jervis Bay. The historic property on the Shoalhaven River was the home and studio of legendary Australian painter Arthur Boyd, who donated the estate to the Australian people in 1993. A striking new museum building — embedded into the hillside with sweeping views over the river valley — opened in 2022 and houses the Boyd collection alongside rotating exhibitions of contemporary Australian art. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking for a beautiful, sheltered day out, Bundanon is one of the best options in the Shoalhaven region.
| Location | Illaroo Road, Bundanon — 1 hr from Huskisson |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Check bundanon.com.au for current hours — usually Wed–Sun |
| Entry | Ticketed — check current prices at bundanon.com.au |
| Best For | Art, architecture, nature walks, riverside scenery |
The Museum Building
The 2022 Bundanon museum building is itself a work of architecture — a long, low structure with a roof designed to resemble the rolling hills of the Shoalhaven, partially buried into the hillside to minimise visual impact. The interior spaces are beautifully designed with large windows framing views across the river valley. The building houses the permanent Arthur Boyd collection as well as a dedicated art storage and study centre visible to visitors.
The Boyd Collection
Arthur Boyd is one of Australia's most significant 20th-century painters, known for his figurative work exploring indigenous themes, mythology, and the Australian landscape. The permanent collection at Bundanon spans his entire career and includes many of his most celebrated works set against the Shoalhaven landscape that inspired him. Even visitors unfamiliar with Boyd's work find the collection moving and accessible.
The Grounds and River Walk
The Bundanon property encompasses over 1,000 hectares of Shoalhaven River valley. A network of walking trails takes visitors along the riverbank and through the surrounding bushland. The views across the Shoalhaven River from the property are extraordinary — a wide, slow river flanked by steep sandstone cliffs and eucalypt forest. Kangaroos and wallabies are frequently seen on the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to book ahead for Bundanon?
- Yes — Bundanon operates on a timed-entry ticketing system and advance booking is strongly recommended, particularly on weekends and school holidays. Book via bundanon.com.au.
- How far is Bundanon from Huskisson?
- Bundanon is approximately 1 hour from Huskisson by car, heading inland up the Shoalhaven River valley. It makes a perfect full-day excursion on a rainy or overcast day.