A Weekend in Bowral
Where to Stay, Shop and Eat and Where to Visit:
Save this for your next visit to the Highlands. Bowral is a short drive from Sydney or Canberra, and was recently named Australia's Best Country Town by Australian Traveller. Explore the heritage streets, considered boutiques, and discover food
destinations worth the trip alone.
Where to Stay
Links House Where we always stay. Cosy but elevated, with the kind of care that makes you feel truly looked after rather than simply accommodated. Log fires, garden views and a breakfast genuinely worth getting up for.
Ardour, Milton Park For a more indulgent stay, the grounds and interiors at Ardour are on another level. Whether you're staying the night or just visiting for the day, the spa and restaurant alone are worth the trip.
Where to Shop
We may be biased, but you have to stop in. Ascots of Bowral is the sister store to Angel Divine in Queenstown and Arrowtown, and we're proudly the exclusive Australian stockist of Holland Cooper, the British label known for impeccably tailored tweed and heritage-inspired apparel.
The store reflects the eye of our owner, Deirdre, blending heritage charm with modern refinement. Pop in, take your time, and we'd bet you'll find something you keep coming back for, season after season.
The Gilded Butler A favourite of ours for homeware, cookware, gourmet food, linen and furniture. Easy to lose an hour in here.
Dirty Janes Emporium For antique treasures and one off finds.
Where to Eat & Drink
Lucette Bistro Tucked down the arcade from our boutique and so worth a visit. French cuisine, in beautiful interiors that feel like they belong in Paris rather than the Highlands. Book ahead, tables go quickly on weekends. The steak frites special was perfection - très bon!
Osborn House Fire Kitchen brings bold Latin American flavours cooked over open flame, with views across Morton National Park to match. For something more relaxed, George's is the spot, cosy fireplace, impeccable bar, seasonal all day dining. Bookings essential either way.
Coffee by Nicks A cute spot on the main street that is our go to.
Where to Visit
Èliva Bowral Set within the heritage grounds of Ardour Milton Park, Èliva Bowral is a wellness sanctuary with stunning treatment rooms, sauna and hot mineral pools. Book in a treatment or add in a Pilates class.
Retford Park A National Trust property with real history. The Victorian Italianate homestead was richly decorated by Leslie Walford in the 1960s for James Fairfax, and the interiors and art collection are worth the guided tour alone. Beautiful gardens to wander through either way.
Burradoo Park Farm A working regenerative farm just outside town, worth the visit for the land alone. Wander the paddocks, say hello to the Highland cattle, then eat well courtesy of Three Blue Ducks at The Bakehouse or The Farmhouse. Free to visit, though general admission tickets are required on weekends and public holidays, so book ahead.
So much to see in the Highlands. Come by Ascots and we'll point you toward the best cafés, restaurants or hikes while you're in town and help you find the perfect outfit to explore in.