Bodalla Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Bodalla, along with tips on getting around, staying safe, and experiencing the local culture.


Introduction to Bodalla

Nestled in the scenic Eurobodalla region of Southeastern New South Wales, Bodalla is a charming small town that boasts a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking for outdoor activities or a history buff eager to learn more about the local past, there’s something for everyone in Bodalla.

List of Places to Visit in Bodalla

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Bodalla Dairy Shed: Take a trip back in time and explore the Bodalla Dairy Shed, which offers interactive exhibits, guided tours, and tastings of delicious locally made cheese and ice cream.

  2. Bodalla Heritage Walk: Discover the town’s fascinating history by taking a self-guided walking tour of Bodalla’s historic sites, including the Bodalla Public School and the All Saints Anglican Church.

Natural Attractions of Bodalla: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Eurobodalla National Park: Explore the stunning natural beauty of Eurobodalla National Park, which boasts a variety of hiking trails, freshwater swimming holes, and scenic picnic areas.

  2. Tuross Head: Take a scenic drive to the nearby town of Tuross Head, which offers stunning views of the ocean and a variety of water-based activities such as fishing, boating, and surfing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bodalla

  1. Bodalla State Forest: Explore the beautiful forests and waterfalls of Bodalla State Forest on a scenic hiking or mountain biking trail.

  2. Dalmeny Narooma Cycleway: Take a leisurely ride along the Dalmeny Narooma Cycleway, which offers stunning coastal views and access to a variety of beaches and nature reserves.

Best Things to Do in Bodalla: Activities and Tours

  1. Bodalla Farmers Market: Sample delicious foods and local produce at the weekly Bodalla Farmers Market, held every Saturday from 8am to 1pm.

  2. Bodalla Artisans Studio: Visit the Bodalla Artisans Studio and admire the work of talented local artists and craftspeople, or take a class and learn a new skill yourself.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bodalla

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the Bodalla Heritage Walk and visit the All Saints Anglican Church
Day 2 Take a scenic drive to Tuross Head and spend the day fishing or boating
Day 3 Hike or bike through Bodalla State Forest
Day 4 Visit the Bodalla Dairy Shed and sample locally made cheese and ice cream
Day 5 Take a day trip to the nearby town of Narooma and go whale watching or rock climbing
Day 6 Spend the day relaxing at Eurobodalla National Park
Day 7 Visit the Bodalla Artisans Studio and purchase souvenirs to bring home

Food and Drink Scene of Bodalla

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Bodalla Dairy Cheese: Sample the delicious locally made cheeses at the Bodalla Dairy Shed, including brie, camembert, and blue cheese.

  2. Oysters: Indulge in fresh oysters caught off the nearby coast of Narooma and served at local restaurants.

Local Beverages

  1. Bodalla Milk: Enjoy a glass of fresh, cold Bodalla milk, which is delivered daily from local farms.

Where to Stay in Bodalla: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. The Lodge and Spa at Bodalla: Relax in luxury at the Lodge and Spa at Bodalla, which boasts beautiful accommodations, a variety of spa treatments, and gourmet dining options.

  2. The Bodalla Arms Hotel: Stay in a cozy and affordable room at the Bodalla Arms Hotel, which also features a friendly local pub and bistro.

What to Buy in Bodalla: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Handcrafted Art and Pottery: Purchase one-of-a-kind pieces from the Bodalla Artisans Studio, including handmade pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

  2. Local Produce: Take home fresh produce from the Bodalla Farmers Market, including fruits, vegetables, and meats.

Local Culture and Customs of Bodalla

Bodalla is steeped in Australian history and culture, with a strong focus on dairy farming and cheese production. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the local lifestyle by attending community events and engaging with the friendly locals.

Best Time to Visit Bodalla

The best time to visit Bodalla is from September to November, when the weather is mild and the scenery is lush and green. This is also the prime season for festivals and events, including the Bodalla Dairy and Cheese Festival, held every November.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bodalla

Do:

  • Embrace the local culture and try the fresh, locally made cheese and milk.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities and natural beauty of the region.
  • Shop at local markets and support small businesses in the community.

Don’t:

  • Trespass on private property, especially farmland.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Disrespect the local culture or customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bodalla

Bodalla is a generally safe town with low crime rates, but visitors should still take precautions to stay safe, such as not leaving valuables in cars and locking doors and windows at night.

Health in Bodalla

Bodalla has a medical center and pharmacy available for any health concerns. It is also recommended to bring insect repellent and sun protection when exploring the outdoors.

Getting to Bodalla: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bodalla

The nearest airport to Bodalla is Moruya Airport, which is about 20 minutes away by car. Other nearby airports include Merimbula Airport and Canberra Airport, which are both about a two-hour drive from Bodalla.

Bus Stations Near Bodalla

Bodalla has a small bus station located in the town center, with limited services available. The nearest major bus stations are in Moruya and Narooma, which offer more frequent services to other towns and cities in the region.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or book a private shuttle service from nearby airports or cities.

How to Get Around in Bodalla

Bodalla is a small town and can easily be explored on foot or by bicycle. For those who prefer to drive, there are several car rental services available in the town.

Where to Go Next from Bodalla: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Montague Island: Take a boat tour from Narooma to Montague Island, where you can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and viewing the local wildlife, including seals and penguins.

  2. Mimosa Rocks National Park: Explore the rugged coastline and scenic beaches of Mimosa Rocks National Park, located just south of Bodalla.

Conclusion

Bodalla is a hidden gem in Southeastern New South Wales, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical sites, or just a relaxing retreat, this charming town has something for everyone.