Hotels in Bowral

Bowral: Where Lush Gardens Meet Nature's Playground

Nestled in the heart of the Southern Highlands, Bowral, New South Wales, is a captivating blend of lush gardens and charming heritage. This picturesque town is renowned for its stunning gardens, including the iconic Corbett Gardens, where locals and visitors alike revel in seasonal blooms. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby natural parks, perfect for hiking and picnicking amid serene landscapes. Bowral's quaint boutiques, cozy cafes, and rich history offer a delightful escape, while its vibrant arts scene and local wineries provide a taste of the region's cultural charm. Experience the essence of Bowral—where beauty and tranquility meet. For the best hotel rates in Bowral and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Bowral

Some of the best places to stay in Bowral are Shellharbour, Moss Vale and Kiama Downs. Shellharbour offers beautiful beaches and a vibrant marina, perfect for relaxation and water activities. Moss Vale, with its charming country atmosphere and lush gardens, is ideal for nature lovers. Kiama Downs boasts stunning coastal views and is great for outdoor adventures. Generally, accommodations in these areas range from cozy guesthouses to comfortable motels, catering to various budgets. For first-time visitors, Shellharbour is the best choice, providing a mix of leisure and attractions. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Bowral:

1. ShellharbourOpens in a new window: Shellharbour is an ideal destination for those seeking a beach-themed getaway, featuring stunning coastal views and a variety of outdoor adventures. Key attractions include the Jamberoo Action Park, a family-friendly waterpark, and the famous Kiama Blowhole. For comfortable stays, consider Shellharbour Village MotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star motel offering direct beach access and adventure sports like skydiving and mountain biking. Alternatively, Shellharbour ResortOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star motel, provides business amenities and nearby adventure activities like snorkeling and surfing. For families, NRMA Shellharbour Beachside Holiday ParkOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star holiday park with child-friendly amenities such as a playground and games.
2. Moss ValeOpens in a new window: Moss Vale is perfect for travelers who appreciate outdoor activities and local wineries. This charming area boasts attractions like the Bendooley Estate Book Barn and Centennial Vineyards. For a luxurious experience, The Bundanoon Guest HouseOpens in a new window is a 4.5-star guesthouse catering to guests seeking upscale accommodations. Also, YallambeeOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star bed and breakfast, offers business services and a cozy atmosphere. Lastly, Peppers Manor HouseOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel, is ideal for business travelers with multiple meeting rooms and conference spaces.
3. Kiama DownsOpens in a new window: Kiama Downs is a picturesque beach destination known for its family-friendly atmosphere and thrilling water activities. The area features the renowned Kiama Blowhole and Kiama Surf Beach. A great option is Mercure Gerringong ResortOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel offering luxury accommodations and child-friendly amenities. For adventure seekers, Park Ridge RetreatOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star motel, provides access to exciting activities like kayaking and windsurfing. Lastly, Bed & Breakfast at KiamaOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star bed and breakfast, offers a luxurious stay with a focus on comfort and relaxation.

What to do in Bowral

Nestled in picturesque landscapes, Bowral offers a serene escape with its lush gardens and rolling hills. Spend three days enjoying leisurely walks, golfing, or relaxing at a spa. With opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities, it’s a perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Bowral:

• Day 1: Start your Bowral journey at the stunning Mount Jellore Lookout, where you can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. After soaking in the scenery, head over to the Sturt Gallery, which showcases an impressive collection of Australian art and crafts. Conclude your day with a peaceful stroll through Jellore Flora Reserve, where you can appreciate the native flora and perhaps spot some local wildlife amidst the serene landscapes.
• Day 2: Begin your exploration at Mount Gibraltar Reserve, an ideal spot for hiking and enjoying spectacular views. After your hike, make your way to Glow Worm Glen, where you can witness the enchanting glow of bioluminescent creatures as dusk falls. Finally, unwind at Cosh Park, a lovely place to relax, enjoy a picnic, and take in the beauty of Bowral's gardens and playgrounds.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the picturesque Red Cow Farm Garden, where you can admire beautifully landscaped gardens and perhaps pick up some fresh produce. Next, venture to Budderoo National Park, a haven for nature lovers with its walking trails and lush greenery. Finally, visit the Santi Forest Monastery, a tranquil spot ideal for reflection, meditation, and appreciating the peaceful surroundings before concluding your Bowral adventure.

5 tips to find a great Bowral hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Bowral is during July, August, and November, when hotel prices are more affordable. If you're traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure great value for money. A stay of at least 1-2 days is perfect for discovering Bowral's key attractions, such as its beautiful gardens and scenic natural parks. This way, you can enjoy an enriching experience without stretching your budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great last-minute deals to Bowral, Hotels.com is a fantastic booking site to explore. By heading to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, you could find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. To maximize your savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you'll be more likely to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, helping you seize the best opportunities to save on your Bowral getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Bowral.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Bowral usually tends to be more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like a car or bicycle to explore the area and potentially save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Bowral and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Bowral

Here are a few popular dishes in Bowral, New South Wales, Australia:

• Beef and Guinness Pie: This hearty dish features tender chunks of beef slow-cooked in a rich Guinness stout gravy, encased in a flaky pastry crust. It's a beloved pub favorite that reflects the local Australian comfort food scene, often enjoyed with a side of mashed potatoes or seasonal vegetables, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner.
• Fish and Chips: A quintessential dish for any visit to Bowral, this classic features crispy battered fish served alongside golden fries. Often accompanied by tartar sauce and lemon wedges, it's a casual meal best enjoyed by the water or at a local pub, showcasing the region's access to fresh seafood.
• Kangaroo Fillet: This lean and flavorful meat is a unique Australian delicacy. Often grilled or pan-seared, kangaroo fillet is typically served with native bush spices and seasonal vegetables, offering a taste of the local wildlife and a true reflection of the Australian culinary experience.

Best time to go to Bowral

Bowral experiences its lowest average temperature in July, at 45.3°F (7.4°C), while January is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 67.5°F (19.7°C). March is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Bowral, April, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.