Just 90 minutes from Sydney, Bowral is the gateway to New South Wales’ idyllic Southern Highlands. A charming destination throughout the year, this lovely town is famed for its flower-filled gardens, cultural attractions and fabulous food and drinks. Visitors have a growing number of great guesthouses and hotels to choose from; we think the best places to stay in Bowral fuse heritage charm with an easygoing contemporary sense of style.

A fashionable rural retreat for Sydney’s elite from the 19th Century, Bowral has a wonderfully laid-back feel, with beautiful gardens, independent shops and galleries aplenty. Pick up attractive homewares and vintage pieces on Green Lane, browse the fortnightly Bowral Markets, and marvel at pieces by local creatives at the Ngunungula Regional Gallery, on a farm surrounded by wildflower meadows. The colourful Corbett Gardens, near the heart of town, are not to be missed, nor are the Southern Highlands Botanical Gardens.

Cricket fans will be fascinated by the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame. You can even catch a game at the adjoining Bradman Oval — named for the great man himself — if you’re lucky. Venture further afield to follow the Southern Highlands Wine Trail or to hike and cycle through the Mount Gibraltar Reserve for dazzling views. Returning to your pick of the best places to stay in Bowral, you can expect a crackling fire, wonderful regional wine list, and terrific cuisine — tuck in!

The Best Places to Stay in Bowral

For Boutique Charm

• Links House, a charming 1920s-built guesthouse, has been transformed into a characterful boutique hotel with whitewashed walls, retro furnishings and a wonderfully cosy feel. Sink into armchairs clustered around the fire, savour seasonal produce at Ethos, and stroll along the manicured gardens. Easygoing and very charming.
• Berida Hotel, also dating back to the mid-1920s, was once a private residence. The lovely red-brick landmark is now a cosy 46-bedroom hotel with moody blue and green interiors, velvet accents and botanical prints. Two hip bars and a lively bistro add to the appeal, along with a soothing spa and gardens.
• Old Bank Boutique Hotel has just nine guest rooms, the largest of which have kitchenettes. Set between a 19th-century house, cottages and stables, spaces have exposed beams, original artwork and antique woode furniture. The atmospheric dining room hosts private events for up to 40 people, making this a charmign choice for a meeting or celebration. Adults only.

FOR A PRIVATE HOUSE OR APARTMENT

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Sydney Airport, just over an hour's drive away. Travel to your hotel by bus or taxi, or take a two-hour train from Sydney. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pick-up in advance.
• New South Wales is ideal for a road trip! If you would like to hire a car, we recommend visiting our online partner Rentalcars.
• Visit between January and March for plenty of sunshine and the flowers in full bloom — though be aware that this can be a busy time of year to travel. Avoid the Australian school holidays for great deals and quieter attractions if you can.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Sydney.
• Widen the net and see our pick of the best places to stay in New South Wales.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.