Photography by Jack Bass
This winter, trade the ordinary for the extraordinary with a journey to two captivating NSW destinations. In the heart of the Southern Highlands, Bowral awaits, a charming retreat with beautiful gardens, intriguing history, and a lively cultural scene. A short drive to the coast reveals Kiama, where dramatic ocean vistas, iconic natural landmarks, and laid-back seaside vibes create a refreshing escape. Choose your adventure – a cozy highland haven or a bracing coastal getaway – both promise unforgettable winter memories.
Bowral
Nestled in the heart of the NSW Southern Highlands, the charming town of Bowral is a delightful blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Visitors can choose to stroll through colourful tulip gardens, explore heritage estates and cool-climate vineyards, browse local art, learn about sporting history, and dine in award-winning restaurants. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your itinerary this winter.
Photography by Wingcarribee Shire Council
CORBETT GARDENS
The Corbett Gardens are located at the centre of Bowral, a historic public park open all year round and renowned for its stunning floral displays. This floral wonderland comes alive for the Tulip Time Festival each spring, showcasing over 80,000 tulips and 15,000 annuals, attracting more than 40,000 visitors annually. While entry is free for most of the year, a fee applies during the festival period.
TOWN CENTRE
Bowral’s town centre boasts a variety of specialty shops, restaurants, cafes and art galleries. The historic Springett’s Arcade is a must-visit for shopping, offering a range of boutique retailers for every need. Antique lovers will adore an afternoon wandering through the Dirty Janes emporium, discovering unique vintage treasures and artisan-made homewares at every turn. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Bowral Art Gallery, which hosts over 30 exhibitions annually, showcasing drawing, painting, mixed media, printmaking, sculpture, photography, children’s art, and silversmithing. The Milk Factory Gallery, home to contemporary works across various mediums, is also worth a visit.
Photography by Visit NSW
RETFORD PARK
A visit to Retford Park is a cultural delight and offers a true glimpse into Bowral’s rich heritage. Built in 1887 by the Hordern family and later redesigned by James Fairfax in the 1960s, this elegant Victorian Italianate mansion is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens adorned with sculptures and artworks. Be sure to take a guided tour of the house to hear the fascinating stories of Fairfax’s impressive art and furniture collection.
Photography by Arts & Crafts
BRADMAN MUSEUM
This fascinating museum is a tribute to sporting legend, Australia’s greatest cricketer, and Bowral local, Sir Donald Bradman, and is a true highlight for all cricket fans. The museum features interactive exhibits and a collection of memorabilia that not only celebrates Bradman, but also the stories and people that have shaped the history of the sport.
Photography by TripAdvisor
Kiama
Discover the coastal charm of Kiama, a seaside town home to stunning ocean views and coastal walks, quaint markets and a famous, thunderous blowhole. It’s the perfect destination for a romantic weekend away, or a memorable family holiday where you can all slow down and soak in the coastal magic.
Photography by Dmitry Osipenko
KIAMA BLOWHOLE
No trip to Kiama is complete without witnessing the town’s most iconic natural attraction. The Kiama Blowhole is one of the largest in the world, capable of spouting sea spray up to 30m into the air. The site offers multiple viewing platforms, but be sure to check out the most eastern point to take in the full height of the rock formation. Only a short distance from the town centre and railway station, the blowhole has picnic and parking areas, with a rock pool nearby.
Photography by Destination Kiama
KIAMA COASTAL WALK
For those in search of adventure and panoramic views, put the 20km Kiama to Gerringong coastal walk at the top of your list. Breathtaking every step of the way, it is divided into three main sections, each winding along cliff tops, through pastures, past secret coves and tidal rock pools. You might even see migrating whales in season! You can make a day of it and gently hike for six to seven hours from start to end, or keep a leisurely pace along your preferred section. The trail is moderately challenging but rewards hikers with an unforgettable coastal experience, plus there are ample places to stop, rest and refuel.
Photography by Kiama Council
KIAMA SEASIDE MARKETS
The Kiama Seaside Markets are held on the third Sunday of every month just near Black Beach. These vibrant markets are a celebration of local talent, offering handmade crafts and homewares, clothing, jewellery, gourmet treats and fresh produce. It’s a great shopping experience for the whole family, and the ideal way to spend a relaxed Sunday in the heart of Kiama.
Photography by The Fold Kiama
KIAMA LIGHTHOUSE
Situated near the blowhole is the Kiama Lighthouse, which was built in 1887. Standing at a height of 36.5m, this beacon of history is a beloved symbol of the town’s maritime heritage. There’s no access available to the inside of the lighthouse, but visitors can stroll around the grounds, soak up the views of the coastline, or learn about the important role it played in Kiama’s seafaring past by visiting the Pilot’s Cottage Museum, formerly the Assistant Keeper’s House used for many years as a residence for harbour pilots.
Photography by Philip Flors
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