If your idea of bliss is wandering through enchanting country towns, then a visit to Braidwood and surrounds nestled between the nation’s capital Canberra and the pristine coastline of Southern NSW is a must-do.
Sample the local flavours at charming cafes, indulge in award-winning cool climate wines and stroll through the many galleries, boutiques and antique shops in between while learning more about the heritage-listed town steeped in history on this three-day getaway to the countryside.
How to get there
Conveniently located between the nation’s capital, Canberra, and the pristine coastline of Southern NSW, Braidwood is easily accessible via car, bus, train, or for our interstate treasure seekers, by plane.
The peaceful escape is an easy hour’s drive from Canberra along the Kings Highway. The meandering road takes you through memorable towns and villages, dotted with many exquisite gems just waiting to be uncovered, so grab your overnight bag, gather your friends and get ready for three days of rest and relaxation.
Day 1
Welcome to Braidwood. Here, you’ll discover an abundance of unique cafes, laneways hidden between colonial streetscapes, and beautiful gardens and pretty farmlands surrounding grand homesteads.
Now, take a moment to settle in before you start to uncover the hidden gems of Braidwood and surrounds.
We hope you enjoy your stay.
Settling in
Stretch your legs after the drive with a walk down Braidwood’s main street before checking in at your accommodation.
Grab a coffee from 134 Espresso Bar or treat yourself at Oscar’s Donuts before heading out for the afternoon.
Artists + Artisans
The region abounds with a creative community and its many showrooms pay testament to this. Spend the afternoon touring the local showrooms and find your treasure among the jewellery, ceramics, paintings, sculptures and more.
Sweet dreams
Tuck in for a peaceful night in Braidwood – from magnificent homesteads surrounded by lush gardens at Mona Farm to tiny house getaways in relaxed rural settings, and boutique guest houses such as The Doncaster and Bedervale.
Day 2
After a good night’s rest, it’s time to delve deeper into all that Braidwood has to offer.
On your second day in town, you’ll explore more of the colonial streetscapes of town, which have served as the backdrop for several iconic Australian films, such as The Year My Voice Broke and Ned Kelly starring Mick Jagger. Afterwards, you’ll get to shop up a storm at the local boutiques, brimming with handcrafted fashion, timeless vintage, diverse homewares and more.
Living heritage
Explore a bygone era as you walk along the streets of Braidwood on a self-guided heritage tour of over 45 historic locations, or pay a visit to the amazing Braidwood Museum which boasts an impressive collection of preserved artefacts and photos showcasing the town’s rich history from the region’s Indigenous history all the way to the stories of gold rushes, bushrangers and Chinese pioneers.
Irresistible treats
It’s no secret that Braidwood has long been regarded as the perfect pit stop for a pie on the way to the coast, and for good reason. Make sure to pay a visit to one of the town’s iconic bakeries, such as Dojo Bread or Braidwood Bakery, for your go-to treat whether it’s a vanilla slice, croissant or a traditional pie.
Proudly local
Pop into the Braidwood Visitor Information Centre at the National Theatre for more ideas on things to do in town, and purchase souvenirs of locally made products to take home with you.
Unique finds
Spend the afternoon strolling through the eclectic boutiques Braidwood has on offer. Find antiques, vintage treasures and collectables at Born Vintage, Vintage Drawer and more, or browse furniture and unique homewares at Sandalwood and Len Mutton & Co.
Upgrade your jewellery collection with handmade pieces from William Verdon, Thompson Bespoke Jewellers or V&M, and spoil yourself with gorgeous western-inspired fashion from Saloon Design House.
On the menu
Packed with a variety of local eateries dishing up paddock-to-plate produce, find your new favourite among Braidwood’s array of quirky cafes, eclectic restaurants and traditional pubs. Choose from a range of cuisines from classic Australian to the delicious Himalayan flavours of Smokey Horse and the indulgent French galettes of Provisions Deli & Creperie and more.
Day 3
Start your final day in Braidwood with a beautifully fresh spread of breakfast at Casanova’s Sourdough Bakery and Cafe or The Albion in preparation for a big day out exploring the surrounding region.
Starting with an exciting truffle hunt, your day will lead you through a variety of experiences and activities involving the great outdoors, extraordinary dining experiences and plenty of exploration.
Hunt for black gold
During the winter truffle season, start your last day in the Braidwood area by rugging up and heading out to one of the local truffle farms, such as L’Air du Wombat Truffles, Turalla Truffles or Blue Frog Truffles, to join a truffle hunt in action.
You’ll spend the crisp and cosy winter morning not only hunting for the delectable treat but also tasting it in a variety of exciting ways – ever heard of truffle ice cream?
Local drops
Nearby, on the rolling hills of Wamboin and Bywong, you’ll find local award-winning cool climate wineries. Take your pick from Norton Road Wines and Lark Hill, and stop by for a wine tasting or lunch overlooking the vines.
Explore more
Before heading back to Braidwood, pay a visit to the local galleries, such as the renowned Bungendore Wood Works Gallery, showcasing Australian-made wood craft and art.
Off the beaten path
Finish the day by heading back to Braidwood past the pristine waterways and unspoiled national parks and nature reserves of the region. Head north of the town to explore the Budawangs, or south to marvel at The Big Hole in Deua National Park and breathe in one last sip of the crisp air surrounding the Great Dividing Range.
