Bowral Travel Guide

Plan the perfect trip to Bowral, from the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to buy, local culture, safety, and transportation options.


Introduction to Bowral

Situated in the picturesque region of Southern Highlands, Bowral is a charming town often referred to as the jewel of the area. Known for its fresh produce, beautiful gardens and parks, and cultural attractions, Bowral is a must-visit destination for travellers seeking a peaceful countryside retreat. The destination has a lot to offer, including hiking and biking opportunities, scenic views, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Bowral

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Interested in history and culture? Bowral has a rich past to explore. A great place to start is the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame, which celebrates the life of Sir Donald Bradman, the world-renowned cricketer. You can also visit the Harper’s Mansion – an iconic landmark that represents the colonial aspect of Bowral.

Natural Attractions of Bowral: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The town is surrounded by beautiful parks and gardens which are a must-visit during your stay in Bowral. The Corbett Gardens is one of the most prominent ones, with an array of colourful flowers and water features, and the Bowral Lookout provides scenic views of the surrounding landscapes. The Mount Gibraltar Reserve and the Bong Bong Common offer outdoor adventures such as hiking, birdwatching and rock climbing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bowral

Hiking and biking are two popular activities that visitors can indulge in when in Bowral. The Bowral to Berrima Rail Trail is a popular one, where visitors can ride their bikes or take a scenic walk along the trail and enjoy the stunning views. The Glow Worm Glen is also a famous hiking spot which looks magical at night when hundreds of glow worms light up the area.

Best Things to Do in Bowral: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for things to do in Bowral, we recommend visiting the Dirty Janes Antique Market. There are an array of antiques and other curios on sale, perfect for souvenir hunting. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll around town and enjoy the friendly atmosphere and the many coffee shops and restaurants. Additionally, you can book a hot air balloon ride for a picturesque bird’s eye view of the town.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bowral

Looking for a week-long itinerary to cover all of Bowral’s highlights? Allow us to help you plan your perfect trip.

Day 1: Start your day with a visit to the Corbett Gardens and the Bowral Lookout. In the evening, indulge in gourmet cuisine and local wines at one of Bowral’s top restaurants.

Day 2: Hit the hiking trail at the Mount Gibraltar Reserve or visit the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame.

Day 3: Take a hot air balloon ride in the morning and spend the afternoon visiting the stunning Harper’s Mansion.

Day 4: Go on a biking trail along the Bowral to Berrima Rail Trail.

Day 5: Explore the Dirty Janes Antique Market in the morning and visit the Bong Bong Common in the afternoon.

Day 6: Take a day trip to the nearby Fitzroy Falls or Kangaroo Valley.

Day 7: Spend the day relaxing at your hotel or soaking up the sun at one of the town’s local parks.

Food and Drink Scene of Bowral

Must-Try Dishes

Bowral is known for its fresh produce and culinary delights. A must-try dish when in Bowral is the Southern Highlands’ local lamb, cooked to perfection at one of Bowral’s restaurants. Another local favourite is the freshly baked sourdough bread made by the talented bakers in town.

Local Beverages

When in Bowral, you must try the local wines that have been made with love and care. The region’s cool climate produces some of Australia’s best Sauvignon Blancs, Rieslings, and Pinot Noirs, which pack a punch.

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

Bowral offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. From luxurious guesthouses and hotels to inexpensive backpacker hostels, Bowral has it all. The Milton Park Country House, Bendooley Estate, and The Sebel are some of the most sought-after accommodation options in Bowral.

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

Don’t leave Bowral without taking home a unique souvenir for your loved ones. From locally-made pottery and antiques to handcrafted jewellery and artisanal products, Bowral has it all. You could also stop by one of the local wineries to taste and buy some of the best local wines.

Local Culture and Customs of Bowral

Bowral is a friendly and welcoming town that is steeped in history and culture. Locals take pride in their community and are always willing to share their stories with visitors. Ensure that you are respectful when visiting sacred sites and always ask for permission before taking photographs.

Best Time to Visit Bowral

The best time to visit Bowral is during the spring season (September to November), when the gardens are in full bloom. During this time, the town hosts its annual Tulip Time Festival which draws crowds from all over the world.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bowral

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local wine and cuisine.
  • Take the time to explore the many parks and gardens.

Don’t:

  • Leave any rubbish behind when you visit any of the natural attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bowral

Bowral is a safe town with friendly locals. However, travellers should always be mindful of their belongings and avoid walking alone late at night in dark areas.

Health in Bowral

Bowral has a few medical centres that visitors can use if need be. Visitors are advised to have comprehensive travel health insurance for any unforeseen medical situations that might occur during their stay.

Getting to Bowral: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bowral

The closest airport to Bowral is Sydney Airport, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from the town. Visitors arriving at Sydney Airport can hire a car or take a train or bus to reach Bowral.

Bus Stations Near Bowral

Bowral has its own bus station located in the heart of the town. Travellers can take a bus from Sydney to Bowral, and there are regular bus services between major towns.

Other Options

Travellers can also hire a car and drive to Bowral or take a taxi or shuttle service from Sydney Airport.

How to Get Around in Bowral

Getting around Bowral is easy, and visitors can take a bus or taxi to reach any part of the town. However, for those who prefer to explore at their own pace, hiring a car or bike is a great way to explore the town and surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Bowral: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’ve explored every nook and cranny of Bowral and still have a few days left to spare, there are several nearby destinations that are worth a visit. The Kangaroo Valley and the Fitzroy Falls are two popular destinations that are located within a 30-minute drive from Bowral.

Conclusion

Bowral is a charming town that is perfect for a peaceful countryside retreat. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, there is something for everyone in Bowral. The town’s friendly locals, stunning gardens, and culinary delights are sure to make your visit a memorable one.