Venture deep into the Joadja Valley, a remote and atmospheric corner of the Southern Highlands, where stories of Scottish miners, kerosene shale, and sly grog echo through time.

Begin your day with morning tea before embarking on a fully guided 100-minute heritage tour of the Joadja Historic Site, aboard purpose-built people movers. This immersive journey reveals over ten evocative sites and ruins, where you can step off to get a closer look—or remain comfortably seated throughout, thanks to excellent accessibility.

Discover the rich history of this once-thriving mining town, established in the late 1870s by the Australian Kerosene Oil and Mineral Company. Learn how Scottish immigrants brought their expertise in oil shale mining—and their secret stilling techniques—to the valley, giving rise to both industry and legend.

Following your tour, enjoy a fully guided experience at Joadja Distillery (approx. 1 hour), where the site’s “sly grog” legacy comes to life. Sample their artisan whiskies and spirits, produced on site with pristine spring water and local ingredients.

Your visit includes a picnic-style lunch, served in the peaceful surrounds of this privately owned National Heritage-listed site—a place where history, landscape, and craftsmanship converge. Enjoy freshly baked rolls (choice of chicken, ham, turkey, or vegetarian), fruit juice, tea, and coffee as you relax and soak up the valley’s timeless charm.

This is more than just a day tour—it’s a window into a forgotten world, lovingly preserved by the current custodians of Joadja Town.