Bowral: Did you say wine & cheese?
It’s not a secret for anyone that I’m always down for an adventure, and let’s just say… this year hasn’t been the best for travellers. We’ve been particularly lucky in (most of) Australia because we haven’t been too impacted by covid compared to other countries and we’ve been able to start travelling locally again since early June. Over the past few months, I’ve managed to go on a few weekend getaways near Sydney. That includes a 3-day trip to the Southern Highlands in a very cute town named Bowral. My friend Betty and I spent a long weekend exploring waterfalls, indulging in some wine and cheese, wandering around a few antiques stores and admiring the blooming flowers of early Spring.
A long weekend in Bowral
In this blog article:
Where to stay?
There are some nice hotels in the area, including one which we really hesitated to book (the Fitzroy Inn) but we thought the best option to completely disconnect from the city was to rent a place from Airbnb. This cute barn did not disappoint. Located just 5 minutes outside from Bowral, the little cottage is situated in the middle of 6 acres of beautiful gardens.
*For first time Airbnb clients only.
1. Artemis Wines
Let’s face it, I’m a wine aficionado, but I know nothing about Australian wines. My knowledge is limited to French and Italian wines. Luckily, my friend Betty has been living here for +10 years and was able to make some good recommendations. All I remember is…. cool climate. Something about grapes growing in a cooler environment, just try it! We’ve had the sauvignon blanc and the pinot noir, both delicious. It is possible to enjoy a lovely picnic in the vineyard, but I’d recommend making a reservation in advance because it tends to get full very quickly. Artemis Wines is just a 10-min drive from Bowral.
2. Belmore Falls
Probably the most popular waterfalls in the area. Located just 30 minutes from Bowral, these falls are easily accessible from a viewing platform located right next to the car park. Note that it is no longer possible to hike down to the bottom of the falls (even though some people still do it). The falls are impressive, but quite touristic, which is why we quickly headed to a secret swim hole that I found online while doing a bit of pre-trip research. Send me a DM on Instagram if you’d like to know the exact location. All I can say is that it was by far the favourite place we’ve visited during the whole trip!
3. Bendooley Estate
To continue with the wine and cheese saga, make sure you add this place to your list. Bendooley Estate is a popular wedding venue and I can clearly see why. Not only is the location absolutely beautiful, but the wine, food and service are impeccable. Half of the restaurant is nested in the middle of a bookstore which adds more charm to the place. I highly recommend their beetroot tartar & flatbread. Reservations are highly recommended.
4. Berrrima
Berrima is a super cute town located 10 minutes from Bowral. I highly recommend stopping there; the architecture reminded me a bit of Europe for a moment. Make sure you walk by the courthouse and the anglican church, they’re both very beautiful.
5. Bowral
I’m not sure why I waited until now to share the highlights of Bowral, it was our main destination after all! Definitely make sure you are booked in for lunch or dinner at Harry’s on Green Lane. I had an absolute blast dining in this magical place. Definitely allow some time for a visit to Dirty Janes, an antique shop. It’s super easy to end up spending a few hours in there. A popular spot for breakfast is the Press Shop; they’ve got a really good breakfast roll. Lastly, I’d suggest going for a walk on top of Mount Gibraltar for a beautiful view over the town.
6. Corbett Gardens
If you visit Bowral in the spring, make sure to visit Corbett Gardens. There were tons of tulips blooming everywhere, and it’s usually where they host the annual Tulips Festival. Aside from the flowers, I’d say the main attraction there is the magnificent tree shown in the pictures below.
7. Carrington Falls
Carrington Falls are truly beautiful and the viewing platform that they’ve built there allows visitors to admire the waterfall from much closer than Belmore Falls. At the top of the falls, there is a calm river in which you can swim, and there are also spots where you can sit to enjoy a picnic or get your tan on.
8. Eden Brewery
If you’re not that much of a wine lover, Bowral has an alternative for you! Eden Brewery is located in Bowral and offers a wide range of local beers brewed right there, in Bowral. You can book a tour of the brewery if you wish, or simply enjoy a tasting paddle to try 5 beers of your choice.
9. Fitzroy Falls
Definitely add this place to your list of things to do; this waterfall is stunning! Make sure you wake up early and get there before the crowds. I’d recommend taking the West Rim hiking trail which should take you approximately 2 hours return. It’s a very nice walk that offers breathtaking views on the falls and the valley.
10. Robertson
Located near Carrington Falls, Robertson deserves a pit stop. It’s the perfect spot to stop for a pie or to grab some local cheese at the Cheese Factory. I’d also suggest checking out the Robertson Hotel and maybe stopping there for coffee. Their garden is beautiful!
11. Moss Vale
Not very far from Bowral, Moss Vale is where you can find a popular brunch spot in the area. Some people decided to renovate an old post office and turn it into a beautiful restaurant. I definitely recommend trying their avo toast with goat cheese. There’s also a popular place to spot kangaroos at sunset near Cecil Hoskins Nature Reserve.
12. Yarrawa Estate
Of course I’m ending this article with more wine! Yarrawa Estate is a family-owned vineyard. You definitely feel the more welcoming and intimate vibe the minute you get there! For $10 per person you can try their wide selection of wines. No need for bookings.
