10 of the most charming Bathurst accommodations

Jessica HumphriesBy Jessica Humphries
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From historic hotels to cosy farmstays, Bathurst offers a diverse smorgasbord of accommodation options to charm any traveller.

When it comes to finding the best Bathurst accommodation, there really is something for everyone. Whether you’re a lover of luxury or you’re in search of the cheerful and cheap, there’s something to suit every traveller’s needs.

The town’s rich history, stunning natural beauty and salt-of-the-earth locals make it an inviting and memorable destination. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore some of the best Bathurst stays on offer.

1. Wilga Station

Price: $$$ – $$$$

Boasting a new kind of luxury, Wilga Station is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. If a quaint countryside retreat tickles your fancy, there are two charming accommodation options on the working sheep farm: the Farmer’s Hut (sleeps two) and the Shearer’s Hall (sleeps 10).

Farmers Hut Wilga Station
Escape to the quaint countryside retreat at Wilga Station.

For those who prefer to stay close to the town centre, the Wool Shed boasts five apartments in Bathurst that combine country charm with New York chic (the owners lived in New York for five years before returning to the family farm – and you can tell).

the bed view at the Farmer’s Hut in Wilga Station
Sleep with a view in the Farmer’s Hut.

Your stay on the farm comes with a complimentary breakfast hamper made of seasonal ingredients to cook up a gourmet hot breakfast on the barbeque, ideal for a romantic or indulgent group getaway.

chic and rustic interior at Shearer's Shed in Wilga Station
Shearer’s Shed is a mix of country charm and New York chic.

2. Bishop’s Court Estate Boutique Hotel

Price: $$$$

Nestled in the heart of Bathurst, Bishop’s Court Estate Boutique Hotel  is a true gem. From the moment you step inside the historic hotel, its unique charm captivates and inspires. Each room is meticulously adorned with antique furnishings and luxurious bedding, creating a sense of elegant nostalgia.

an elegant bedroom at Bishop’s Court Estate Boutique Hotel, Bathurst
Elegant furnishings at Bishop’s Court Estate Boutique Hotel.

The beautifully landscaped garden is a local attraction in itself. The warmth extends beyond the accommodation, with the welcoming hosts going above and beyond with thoughtful indulgences like wine, chocolates and a decadent breakfast served in the dining room.

a vibrant and rustic dining setup at Bishop’s Court Estate Boutique Hotel
Bishop’s Court Estate Boutique Hotel is adorned with antique decors.

3. Lochinvar Luxury Cottages

Price: $$$

Located five minutes from town on the slopes of Mount Panorama, Lochinvar Luxury Cottages  are delightfully cosy, making you feel right at home the moment you step inside.

There are three self-contained cottages to choose from, and each come stocked with plentiful breakfast provisions, immaculate gardens and lovely views across Macquarie Valley. The cottages are nostalgically traditional in design and offer everything you need for a luxurious stay.

4. Rydges Mount Panorama

Price: $$

Perched on the summit of the famous car racing track, Rydges Mount Panorama is an ideal location to soak up the spirit of the region. With stunning views of the surrounding area and perfectly appointed rooms, the motel is modern and convenient.

There’s an onsite restaurant, bar and outdoor swimming pool, as well as a range of amenities and mod-cons in each room. Be sure to check out Mount Panorama – it’s known as one of the best things to do in Bathurst for a reason.

5. Avonview Cottage – Mount Panorama

Price: $$$ – $$$$

Another Mount Panorama beauty, Avonview Cottage is an Airbnb that boasts 180-degree, uninterrupted views over Bathurst and the surrounding mountains.

a modern living room with window at Avonview Cottage – Mount Panorama
Take in breathtaking sights from your window at Avonview Cottage.

The stylish space offers two king bedrooms and bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and laundry, plus an outdoor firepit to soak up the ambiance. It’s a lovely option for couples seeking privacy, picturesque views and five-star modern comfort and style.

the bedroom at Avonview Cottage – Mount Panorama, Bathurst
Wake up next to scenic views of Bathurst and the surrounding mountains.

6. The Convent, O’Connell

Price: $$$ – $$$$

The Convent O’Connell Circa 1867 is a four-bedroom Airbnb perfect for groups wanting to enjoy the romance of the surrounding area, away from bustling Bathurst. Located a 15-minute drive from the city, the cottage oozes country charm. With a rich history, the space has been lovingly restored to delight with the perfect combination of old and new.

a beautiful country estate cottage at The Convent, O’Connell
Check into the country estate cottage at The Convent, O’Connell.

Big, beautiful gardens surround the property, and it’s close to the popular Mayfield Garden and local cafe. It can also be pet-friendly by arrangement, making it ideal for those travelling with their fury friends.

the property exterior amidst lush greenery at The Convent, O’Connell
The beautiful cottage is surrounded by lush greenery.

7. Bathurst Heritage Motor Inn

Price: $$$

Conveniently located a short walk from Bathurst’s city centre, and even closer to the RSL, one of Bathurst’s best clubs, the Bathurst Heritage Motor Inn offers comfy and affordable accommodation. The motel provides spacious rooms with TVs, aircon and all the essentials, making it ideal for a short stay.

With plenty of rooms to choose from, friendly staff, continental breakfast and a simple but serene ambiance – it’s a great option for travellers who want to be close to town.

8. The Victoria Hotel

Price: $$

A great Bathurst accommodation option for travellers who want to be amongst it, The Victoria hotel is upstairs from one of Bathurst’s best local pubs, offering basic but stylish rooms with everything you need.

outside the Victoria Building in Bathurst
The Victoria Hotel is one of the oldest buildings in Bathurst. (Image: Nicola Bailey)

The downstairs restaurant boasts a mouth-watering menu of modern cuisine and classic counter-meal favourites, and there’s often an array of vibrant events on the calendar – usually held in the big, bustling beer garden.

an ensuite accommodation at The Victoria Hotel, Bathurst
The ensuite room at The Victoria Hotel is equipped with modern comforts. (Image: Trent Cash)

9. Bathurst Explorers Motel

Price: $

The Bathurst Explorers Motel is a perfect option for travellers who want cheap, cheerful and comfortable accommodation that’s just a half-hour stroll, or a short drive, to the centre of town. It’s especially loved by pet-owners as you can bring your dog along for the stay. This no-frills motel is basic but clean and cosy.

the property exterior of Bathurst Explorers Motel
Crash for the night at Bathurst Explorers Motel.

10. Rest at BoxGrove

Price: $$$$

Located on family-run cattle farm BoxGrove, Rest is the perfect off-grid retreat for solo travellers and couples looking for a romantic getaway. The stay is made up of six luxurious eco-studios, two of which are designed specifically for those with accessibility needs.

Rest at BoxGrove in Bathurst, NSW
Soak in the stand-alone tub with views across the paddock and plains.

Out here, it’s all about disconnecting to reconnect, whether that be with nature, your travel companion or your favourite hobby. Unwind with local wine on the deck or by your own fire pit with views of black Angus cows grazing in the paddock beyond your fence. Or opt for a dip in your private outdoor spa.

Rest | Private Escape in Bathurst, NSW
Sit by the fire pit or enjoy an outdoor spa.
If adventurous travel in the great outdoors is more your style, there are a handful of comfortable caravan parks and campgrounds in and around Bathurst to tickle your fancy.
Jessica Humphries
Jessica Humphries is a travel and wellbeing writer, with a passion for slow travel, nature, and exploring the world mindfully. Formerly the editor of Australian Yoga Journal and a current contributor to a number of well-being publications, Jessica's writing is inspired by her love for yoga, wellness and sustainable living. Her work is a celebration of the beauty of the world and the joys of gentle travel. She is based in the Northern Rivers of NSW and loves to explore her local area too!
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Your first look at Australia’s brand-new luxury camp

    Kate BettesBy Kate Bettes
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    The heavens take centre stage at this Outback NSW glamping lodge.

    Crane your neck. Look up. If it’s nighttime in a major Australian city, you might see a faint dusting of stars. Now imagine yourself out in the bush. Here, those stars aren’t just scattered dots – instead, they’re smudged across the sky in endless, glittering streaks. Welcome to Wilderluxe Lake Keepit , a new glamping lodge in one of the most picturesque corners of outback NSW.

    Between its eight stargazing tents, Gilay Guest Lounge, and shared tales of the Dreamtime night sky, this retreat is designed to exist in harmony with the breathtaking lake and surrounding landscape. Intrigued? Here’s everything you need to know.

    Bathed in warm light, a couple watches the sun dip beyond the horizon.
    Watch the sky melt into magic at Wilderluxe.

    Getting to Wilderluxe Lake Keepit

    Wilderluxe Lake Keepit is in the NSW Northern Tablelands, bordered by the Great Dividing Range. The lake itself is hard to miss: this mammoth body of water is two-thirds the size of Sydney Harbour.

    Just 40 minutes from Tamworth and close to Gunnedah, it’s on the inland route between Sydney and Byron Bay. Drive or take one of the daily flights to Tamworth’s airport.

    Aerial view of Wilderluxe.
    Let vast waters and towering ranges set the scene for your escape.

    Wilderluxe Lake Keepit rooms

    Don’t settle for a paltry room when you can sleep directly under the cosmos. Wilderluxe offers eight domed ‘Star Tents’ , all named after Aboriginal sky stories – like Djirri Djirri, the sacred messenger bird, Baiame, the Sky Father and great creator, and Dhinawan, the Emu in the Sky constellation.

    On a clear night, use your tent’s retractable roof for gazing above or wander to the outdoor bathtub on your private deck to soak under the night sky. No need to go anywhere. You can stay put come evening with a kitchenette inside and a gas barbecue on the deck.

    A couple gazes up at a sky ablaze with stars at Wilderluxe.
    Sleep beneath the stars.

    Style and character

    When it comes to aesthetics, Wilderluxe Lake Keepit stays on trend. The encampment blends with its surroundings, building up layers of minimalist visuals that mirror the ever-changing curves of the water.

    Earthy tones, natural materials and timber finishes also anchor the retreat in its bushland surrounds. It’s enough to deepen the sense of calm you’ll experience as you drive off-grid, and this is only heightened as you spot kangaroos grazing at dawn or hear the chatter of native birds by the lake.

    The dreamy sunset at Wilderluxe.
    Go off-grid in style at Wilderluxe Lake Keepit.

    Wilderluxe Lake Keepit dining

    ‘Dinner and a show’ hits differently with the property’s Big Sky dinner experience . Hosted in the Gilay Lounge, enjoy complimentary drinks and a grazing table with the host, followed by a screening of Big Sky Dreaming, a film produced exclusively for Wilderluxe guests in which Kamilaroi storyteller Uncle Len Waters narrates tales of the Dreaming above.

    Once your imagination has been fed, it’s time to take a seat fireside for a glass of Australian port and a serving of s’mores.

    Keen to explore the wider area? Staff can provide barbecue and picnic hampers, stuffed with regional meats, cheeses and organic local fare.

    Wilderluxe Lake Keepit facilities

    While you could very well spend all your time in your tent, sometimes it’s time to hit pause on the celestial show. Instead, make your way up to the Gilay Guest Lounge, where you can relax on the deck overlooking the lake or the outdoor fire pits. It’s a great way to unwind and clink glasses with other stargazers.

    The Gilay Lounge with the view of the lake.
    Unwind by the fire and raise a glass at Gilay Lounge.

    Wilderluxe Lake Keepit experiences

    No need to turn nocturnal; when the sun rises, there are still plenty of ways to touch the sky.

    Lake Keepit hosted the 2020 Women’s World Gliding Championships, and it’s one of the best places in Australia to stretch your wings. The local Soaring Club operates year-round, meaning you can book a gliding experience any day of the year – or opt for a scenic flight to take in the vast beauty from above.

    Prefer to keep your feet on solid ground? There are plenty of walking and cycling trails in and around the area. Luckily, bikes are part of the Wilderluxe package. All you have to do is ask a staff member for their favourite route, throw a picnic onto the back and cycle off into the great beyond.

    Alternatively, nab a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) or kayak and head out onto the lake. Or, if you’re feeling lucky, borrow a fishing rod and try your chances.

    A person kayaking through serene waters.
    Paddle into peace.

    The details

    A two-night minimum twin-share accommodation package includes Big Sky dinner and drinks experience, plus daily continental breakfast. As well as access to leisure equipment including mountain bikes, kayaks, SUPs and fishing gear.

    The interiors of the glamping tent.
    Let nature restore you, while luxury takes care of the rest.

    Start planning your outback glamping adventure at wilderluxe.com.au.