A refined country escape with grand estates, cosy fireside dining and iconic heritage, Bowral has officially claimed its title as Australia’s best country town.

It’s not hard to see why Bowral has been crowned Australia’s best country town – and fifth best town overall – in Australian Traveller’s 100 best Aussie towns list. Set in the heart of the Southern Highlands, this once-unassuming village has quietly evolved into a polished weekend escape, where heritage estates, elevated dining and cultural icons converge.

During my 48-hour stay, it was the seamless blend of old-world charm and new energy that stood out — from the grandeur of newly reimagined estates to intimate local experiences that leave you in awe of the neighbourhood’s character. It’s no surprise that Sydneysiders and Aussies alike flock to Bowral for a refreshing getaway. Bowral deserves a spot on every traveller’s list.

The grand estate bringing Bridgerton charm to Bowral

I arrive at the newly reopened Ardour Milton Park in East Bowral for my first night and am warmly greeted by hotel manager, David McDonald. He enthusiastically gave me an informative history lesson on the property and a walkthrough of the grounds, which felt like a scene straight out of the 1993 movie The Secret Garden. Just 90 minutes from Sydney and Canberra, calm arrives almost instantly, unfolding through ivy-lined gardens that seem to slow everything down the moment you arrive at the picturesque estate.

Purchased by the Salter Brothers in 2023, Milton Park began an extensive $10-million transformation, with a complete renovation of the restaurant, kitchen, lounge, guest rooms, and spa, and reopened in February 2026 as the flagship property of Ardour Hotels & Estates.

Drawing attention for its cinematic pull during Bridgerton Season 3’s Regency-inspired takeover of Bowral, where scenes are captured at nearby Retford Park, Ardour Milton Park becomes part of the story itself, hosting exclusive, era-inspired events across its stately grounds.

I am shown to my romantic garden view room, where I’m able to switch off for a couple of hours before heading to Èliva Spa for a 60-minute illuminating facial. Following the facial, it’s time for cocktails in the Polo Bar before tucking into XL Yamba prawns and Riverina Black Angus beef sirloin at Milton Park’s signature dining venue, Horderns Restaurant, which showcases modern Australian-inspired cuisine alongside an exquisite wine selection.

The following night, I check into the tranquil Berida Hotel for another cosy night fireside. Evolving from a 1925 grand manor into a modern boutique hotel, this accommodation hosts 46 stylish and elegantly restored guest rooms. It is then time for a cheeky cocktail at the Aspinalls Bar and Lounge, before heading into town for dinner.

Fireside meals and wine tastings

Bowral has no shortage of outstanding dining options. After enjoying my first dinner at the exquisite Horderns Restaurant at Ardour Milton Park, I begin my second morning in Bowral at the famous Gumnut Patisserie, which almost feels like a rite of passage when arriving in the Southern Highlands. I devour a spinach pastry before fitting in a vanilla slice, which leaves me feeling slightly sick but far from regret.

It is then time for coffee at the iconic Press Shop, before an afternoon of wine tasting at Centennial Vineyards. I enjoy a wine paddle flight on the Terrace overlooking the vineyards, paired with a charcuterie cheeseboard filled with an array of local artisan cheese, cured meats and fresh fruit.

For dinner, I am lucky enough to get a booking at the French café-meets-bistro, Lucette, in the heart of town. It evokes the effortless rhythm and energy of Paris, with tables styled like a café terrace in Paris, while still feeling distinctly rooted in its local setting. I devour the chicken liver parfait and raw tuna tartare, before tucking into the larger Boeuf Bourguignon.

Iconic names stealing the limelight

One of Bowral’s most famous names, Australian cricketer Sir Donald Bradman, affectionately known as “the Don", called the town home. Today, you can stay in his childhood residence at 52 Shepherd Street, or explore his legacy at the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame on St Jude Street, where his story and Australia’s cricketing history are brought to life.

How we chose the winners

Australian Traveller’s 100 best Aussie towns to visit were selected by a voting panel of much-loved Australians, industry experts and category authorities from across the country. The expert panel consisting of 15 travel experts, including the likes of Accor’s Adrian Williams, Ernie Dingo and Catriona Rowntree. Bowral was voted ‘Best Country Town’ and came fifth overall in ‘Best 100 towns’ in Australia.

Here is the shortlist of what not to miss in Bowral

• Stay in the countryside icon, Ardour Milton Park or Berida Hotel
• Enjoy a round of golf at the Gibraltar golf course
• Devour a selection of pastries at Gumnut Patisserie
• Shop till you drop at Far & Few, and Dirty Janes
• Go for a sunrise or sunset hike at Gibraltar lookout
• Grab lunch at The Press Shop, and dinner at Lucette
• Spend the afternoon at Centennial Vineyards, sipping a wine flight
• Visit the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame
• Take a scenic drive through the surrounding countryside