Bowral

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Bowral's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Bowral, Exploring the Town
morning
:

Arrive in Bowral and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely walk around the charming town, absorbing the beauty of its heritage architecture. Begin your exploration with a visit to the Bowral Markets to sample local produce and products.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a quaint café, then venture to the local antique shops and boutiques for some unique shopping. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Bowral Art Gallery to appreciate Australian art. End your afternoon with a stroll through the gardens at Corbett Gardens, which are often filled with stunning blooms.

evening
:

Dine at one of Bowral’s acclaimed restaurants that feature fresh local ingredients. Enjoy a cozy evening, perhaps with some live music or a local event happening in town. Relax and indulge in Australian wine as you reflect on your first day.

day 2
Hiking and Nature at Mt. Gibraltar
morning
:

Start your day with an invigorating hike up Mt. Gibraltar, where the crisp air and stunning views await. Explore the walking trails that lead through the lush eucalyptus forests, offering a true connection to nature. Be sure to take photos as you reach the lookout for panoramic vistas of the Southern Highlands.

afternoon
:

After descending, treat yourself to a picnic lunch at the base or visit a nearby café for a bite. Spend the afternoon exploring the local vineyards, participating in tastings and learning about regional viticulture. The scenic drives through vineyards provide a picturesque backdrop for your journey.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy an early dinner at a vineyard restaurant that overlooks the rolling hills. Engage with the local winemakers and learn about their craft. End the evening with a nightcap of the region’s award-winning wines under the stars.

day 3
Visit to Bowral's Historic Sites
morning
:

Spend the morning immersing yourself in Bowral's rich history by visiting the Bowral District Historical Society Museum. Learn about the town's development and its notable figures, including the famed cricketer Donald Bradman. Take a guided tour if available to gain deeper insights.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a historic venue, perhaps the Bradman Museum café, to keep the sports theme alive. Afterwards, venture to the nearby Bong Bong Race Course for a walk through this historic racing ground, where events have been held for over 150 years. Capture some great shots of vintage memorabilia and racing photos.

evening
:

Return to Bowral for a relaxed dinner at a local eatery that offers heritage charm. East with a delicious wood-fired pizza or traditional Australian fare. Wrap up your evening with dessert from a local patisserie, enjoying the cozy town atmosphere.

day 4
Exploration of the Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens
morning
:

Head to the Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens for a tranquil morning amidst stunning flora and manicured landscapes. Take your time to walk through themed gardens and immerse in the vibrant colors and scents of nature. The cool morning air makes it perfect for quiet reflection and photography.

afternoon
:

Grab a light lunch at the gardens' café, which often features seasonal dishes. Afterward, continue exploring the gardens or nearby nature trails, possibly spotting some local wildlife. Consider joining a guided tour to learn about the various plant species and garden design.

evening
:

On your return to Bowral, dine at a restaurant that focuses on farm-to-table offerings. Experience seasonal dishes crafted with fresh local ingredients. Listen to local tales from your hosts or fellow diners while enjoying your meal.

day 5
Art and Culture Day in Bowral
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local galleries, such as the Bowral Art Gallery and other smaller pop-up exhibitions. Dive into the world of local artwork, experiencing various styles and materials. Take your time to appreciate the creativity and talent within the Bowral community.

afternoon
:

After exploring the art scene, enjoy lunch in town at a café that prides itself on artistic displays and local artistry. When ready, head to the nearby town of Mittagong to explore its cultural sites and perhaps the local craft shops. Don't miss out on the local craft breweries or distilleries for tastings.

evening
:

Attend an evening art workshop or cultural performance if available at the Bowral Town Hall. Alternatively, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that features local artists and musicians. Wind down with a vino while mingling with locals who share your newfound interests in art.

day 6
Relaxation and Spa Day
morning
:

Treat yourself to a spa day, starting with a refreshing breakfast designed for relaxation at your accommodation or a nearby café. Spend your morning indulging in spa treatments that rejuvenate the mind and body. Settle into a luxurious massage or rejuvenating facial in one of Bowral's renowned wellness centers.

afternoon
:

After a serene morning, savor a leisurely lunch focusing on healthy sample dishes that reflect local flavors. Spend your afternoon unwinding poolside or enjoying a soothing sauna at the spa. Consider reading a book or enjoying meditative time among peaceful surroundings.

evening
:

Complete your spa experience with a light and wholesome dinner at a local health-conscious restaurant. Perhaps enjoy a sunset walk in a nearby park to enhance your calm energy. Reflect on the day while sipping herbal teas back at your accommodation.

day 7
Exploring the Farm Life
morning
:

Venture out to a local farm for a hands-on experience in the life of the Southern Highlands. Participate in activities such as feeding animals or picking fruits, depending on the season. Enjoy the peaceful rural setting that contrasts with town life.

afternoon
:

After a hearty farm lunch featuring fresh farm produce, engage in a workshop or class hosted by the farmers. Whether it's learning about organic farming practices or cooking with fresh ingredients, it's both educational and enjoyable. Breathe in the fresh air while exploring the farm's landscape.

evening
:

Enjoy a quiet evening in, perhaps planning your next adventure or looking through photos from the day. As the stars come out, enjoy night sky gazing, embracing the tranquility of rural life.

day 8
Wildlife and Nature Exploration
morning
:

Embark on a wildlife-watching excursion at a nearby national park, starting early to catch sight of active animals. Bring binoculars and a camera to observe and capture photos of the diverse flora and fauna. Join a guided tour for deeper insights into the local ecosystem.

afternoon
:

After a morning in nature, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by scenic views of the park. Spend your afternoon hiking along trails or visiting designated lookout points for breathtaking panoramas. Engage in some quiet reflection or journaling amidst the beauty around you.

evening
:

Return to Bowral and unwind with a dinner highlighting local game or produce, keeping the adventure alive. Share experiences with fellow travelers and locals, exchanging knowledge on wildlife and nature opportunities. Wind down your evening with a stroll through the quiet town as you adjust back to the serene life.

day 9
Farewell to Bowral with a Scenic Drive
morning
:

On your last morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast while reminiscing about your adventures in Bowral. Take a final stroll through the town, perhaps picking up souvenirs or visiting your favorite café one last time. Capture the charm of Bowral one last time with candid photos.

afternoon
:

Prepare for your departure with a scenic drive through the Southern Highlands, soaking in the views and taking in the picturesque landscape. Stop at popular lookout points or quaint towns along the way for lunch and further exploration. Embrace the tranquility as you make your way through this beautiful region.

evening
:

As you end your journey, reflect on the memories made while traveling through Bowral. Consider a final meal at a roadside café, sharing stories of your travel experiences before heading home. Leave Bowral with a heart full of memories and a desire to return.

Discover Bowral

Read more in our Bowral 2025 Travel Guide.

Bowral Travel Guide