12 of the best Bendigo accommodation picks

Strike gold with a stay at one of the most exceptional Bendigo accommodation picks.

Historical Bendigo, Victoria’s small-yet-mighty country town, boasting less than 125,000 people, flows with a surprisingly extensive range of overnight stays. Plotting a break in Goldfields region? Whether you’re keen to treat yourself to a boutique hotel in the city’s centre, on the hunt for a romantic winery, or just plain desperate for a family-friendly change of scenery, our guide to the best Bendigo accommodation presents a smorgasbord of possibilities.

Hotels

Bendigo’s hotel game thoroughly excels. Just add character-filled touches of true Australiana for some of the most memorable Bendigo accommodation you’ll ever come across.

1. Bendigo Ernest Hotel

a woman relaxing in her suite at Bendigo Ernest Hotel — Each bespoke suite at Bendigo Ernest Hotel is a design lover’s dream. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Legacies of Bendigo’s gold rush past linger at the Bendigo Ernest Hotel . Though it only opened its doors as what we see now in early 2022, the 1864 building has lived several lives including one as the Commercial Banking Company of Sydney. See the history for yourself by idling in the hotel lounge, housed within the old bank vault, and you might even spot a bullet hole, believed to have originated from a gold-rush era heist. Each of this Bendigo accommodation’s individually designed rooms feature Australian artwork and natural, earthy colour palettes, while fur parents will be utterly charmed to learn that there’s a pet-friendly suite that welcomes your house-trained bestie.

2. Bendigo Lodges

the dining area inside Bendigo Lodges — The lodges feature nature-inspired architecture. (Image: Dylan James)

A boutique Bendigo stay unlike any other, Bendigo Lodges is architecturally staggering and environmentally friendly. While one is larger than the other (60-sqm vs. 36-sqm), the two self-contained builds are equally breathtaking, inspired by the region’s natural bush surroundings and magazine-styled to perfection. There’s not even a check-in counter—the entire system works remotely—and you can expect a delicious blend of polished concrete, high vaulted ceilings and warm timbers to help fill your dream home mood board. Rain showers, private courtyards, Sonos entertainment systems and electric vehicle charging stations ensure five-star joy no matter where you’re sprawled.

3. Hotel Shamrock

the exterior of Hotel Shamrock in Bendigo — The architecturally designed hotel mirrors the city’s glorious past. (Image: Hotel Shamrock)

Step into a bygone era dressed in ornate architecture, red carpets and chandeliers at Hotel Shamrock , a total time warp in the middle of Bendigo. While it’s renowned locally as one of the best pubs around, this Bendigo hot spot is also home to 37 overnight suites with ensuite bathrooms, TVs and tea and coffee making facilities. Clean, crisp bed sheets and spacious floor plans equal comfortable and convenient lodgings, with two dining areas and that-all-important-bar dialling up the party right downstairs.

4. Mercure Bendigo Schaller

a bedroom with balcony and scenic views at Mercure Bendigo Schaller — Each suite opens up to scenic views. (Image: Mercure Bendigo Schaller)

On the hunt for something contemporary and funky? Mercure Bendigo Schaller is the place for you. An art-filled Bendigo accommodation pick located slap-bang between Lake Weeroona and the CBD, the hotel offers two categories of rooms: standard or superior, with the latter promising almost double the space, and both offering balconies. This wheelchair-accessible hotel also has a cafe and bar onsite.

5. Quality Hotel Lakeside

Quality Hotel Lakeside ’s outdoor pool might well be a deal clincher for some. For others, it might be the property’s location just opposite Lake Weeroona, and only a short stroll from Bendigo’s CBD. Moreover, this Bendigo accommodation’s spacious rooms ooze contemporary chic thanks to a simple neutral colour scheme, while some stays feature balconies and pool or lake views. There’s also the relaxed Lakeside Restaurant on site, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner inspired by international cuisines.

Caravan parks and camping

Glamp, camp and RV your way around the city at these Bendigo holiday parks and wineries, which range from peri-urban settings to bushland.

6. Balgownie Bendigo

a safari tent at Balgownie Bendigo — The luxe glamping tent is fitted out with a private ensuite and a deck with vineyard views. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Balgownie Bendigo is a scenic spot to sample a few local drops, devour a three-course lunch and retire to your choice of indulgence—a decked-out glamping tent or a plush room. If you’re opting for the former, don’t be deceived by that blank canvas. Inside you’ll find almost every mod con, from an in-tent split system to a mini bar, fluffy robes and slippers. Choose from the slightly more compact bell tent or go for a safari tent that can sleep up to four guests. Both varieties feature private decks with bushland or vineyard views. Meanwhile, Homestead Deluxe and Queen rooms are beautifully styled and ultra-comfortable, and an additional one-bedroom suite looks out over the vines and sleeps up to three.

7. BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks – Bendigo

tents at BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks – Bendigo — Bask in the outback for an elevated camping experience. (Image: BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks)

There are multiple BIG4 holiday parks to choose from in the Bendigo region — but BIG4 Tasman Holiday Parks – Bendigo is arguably the cream of the crop. Not only is this Bendigo accommodation the closest to central Bendigo, but it also offers a plethora of different accommodation options and a litany of facilities: think a solar-heated outdoor swimming pool, barbecue areas, mini-golf, an outdoor fire pit area, a pump track, a half-size basketball court, arcade games, a giant chess board, a giant jumping pillow, go karts, a pool table, table tennis and more.

As for your unique digs, dial up the luxe in a glamping tent or go for a schmick three-bedroom cabin. Bring the excess down just a notch by pitching up at the park’s campsite or booking a powered caravan site.

8. Lake Eppalock Holiday Park

Though it’s a 30-minute drive from the centre of Bendigo, the rural location of Lake Eppalock Holiday Park is undeniably the allure.

Featuring 2.5 kilometres of lake frontage, a stay at this Bendigo accommodation is your ticket to a nature-focused getaway perfect for water babies. That lake is great for swimming, canoeing, boating and water skiing, while various species of perch inhabit the waters so it’s a hit with anglers, too.

You can, of course, camp or park your RV, though there are standard, deluxe and premium cabins available for those who fancy extended creature comforts. Beyond the lure of the lake, visitors can exploit onsite facilities spanning a heated pool, a playground, a games room, a jumping pillow, a mountain bike track, and even an open-air cinema come summer.

Airbnb and holiday homes

From spacious abodes begging to be filled with large groups to intimate apartments inviting true romance, the best Bendigo Airbnbs and holiday homes flow with unique charms.

9. The Stables at Byronsvale

a married couple at The Stables at Byronsvale, Bendigo — The Stables at Byronsvale is an idyllic wedding venue.

Searching for an idyllic winter escape? The Stables at Byronsvale comprise three self-contained apartments immersed in photo-ready, vine dripping wine country. Located about ten minutes’ drive from the centre of town, this Bendigo accommodation is romance central, complete with sandstone walls, parquetry floors and full kitchens so you can stock up on supplies and never leave. Even more enticing, gourmet breakfast baskets and yoga classes can be arranged upon request.

10. Grandview Apartment

Grandview apartment in Bendigo — The apartment is swathed in sumptuous red velvet.

It would be tough to come up with a better way to describe this Bendigo Airbnb than pure theatre—you need to see it to appreciate it. An atmospheric gem of a place, Grandview Apartment gives off a near stately vibe with exposed red-brick walls, ornate brass wall sconces, dark timber furniture and plush crimson soft furnishings. Whatever the season, this one-of-a-kind Bendigo accommodation appeals. Come winter, there are plenty of nooks to lean into with a good book, and when warm weather breaks through, its sizable balcony is a lovely spot for sundowners.

11. Bendigo Cottage

Bendigo accommodation — The cosy cottage is heated by a fireplace in winter. (Image: Bendigo Cottage)

Almost every conceivable amenity you could need is on offer at two-bedroom Bendigo Airbnb —a hot tub, indoor fireplace, Nespresso coffee machine, blackout blinds, cot, highchair, bathtub, children’s books and toys, even condiments and breakfast supplies. An Airbnb ‘plus’ property, this little cottage – complete with a white picket fence – features a simple, modern and minimalist design and is located just on the northern cusp of the CBD, across the road from the historical Ulumbarra Theatre.

12. Harcourt House

the exterior of Harcourt House, Bendigo — The elegant exterior of Harcourt House boasts country charm in spades.

Travelling en masse? Harcourt House is our top pick. This spotlessly clean five-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home was made for groups, sleeping up to 10, and it also happens to be tastefully designed, too. The facade features a fretwork verandah and a palette of smoky greys and creamy whites, while inside you’ll find clean lines, modern furnishings and pared-back styling.

The crowning glory is its large, well-equipped kitchen, which features every amenity as well as plenty of pantry staples (tea, coffee, hot chocolate, flour, oil, vinegar, canned goods, pasta and cereal). Enjoy a home-cooked meal while sitting at the kitchen island or venture al fresco and linger over a long lunch on this Bendigo Airbnb’s deck.

Originally written by Chloe Cann with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams

Discover the best restaurants to check out while you’re in Bendigo

More than just a stopover, Albury Wodonga is an elevated city escape immersed in nature.

Perhaps best known as a road trip stop between Sydney and Melbourne, Albury Wodonga offers a combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences and a vibrant food scene that make it well worth its own journey.

Nestled on the banks of the mighty Murray River and surrounded by famed wine and gold rush regions, this riverside town packs a broad punch. Discover how best to spend your days on the border.

Exploring the Murray River

1. The Crossing Place Trail

woman looking at sculpture along Crossing Place Trail loop — Admire sculptural works from local Indigenous artists.

Head to the original crossing places of the Murray River since 1848 – at the junctions of Bungambrawatha Creek and Oddies Creek. Today, these crossings are still used by cars and cattle, but the five-kilometre Crossing Place Trail loop connects the two bridges for bike riders and walkers.

Wander through gum trees, and maybe even spot local platypus and birdlife. Stop along the way to admire sculptural works from local Indigenous artists, see evidence of a scar tree and learn about the importance of this billabong environment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

2. Canoe The Murray

two people kayaking along the murray river at Noreuil Park — Hire canoes or kayaks and get out on the river.

What better way to get a feel for the Murray River than by getting out on its waters? Hire canoes or kayaks from Canoe the Murray , then explore solo or join one of the offered tours. Get up early for a Sunrise and coffee tour, watch the sun dip below the water on a sunset tour or choose one of several daytime trips.

Stand-up paddleboard hire and other water sports, fishing and swimming are also available to river explorers.

3. Noreuil Park Foreshore

aerial of Noreuil Park albury wodonga — Cool off at Noreuil Park Foreshore. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Just outside Albury’s CBD, the riverside Noreuil Park becomes a hub of activity as the weather heats up. Set up on picnic tables under shady trees, use the public barbecues (or pop into the nearby cafe) and cool off with a float down the river.

4. Mungabareena Reserve and Water Works

Mungabareena Reserve albury wodonga — Spend time at Mungabareena Reserve. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

Delve into nature and culture at the beautiful Mungabareena Reserve . Recognised by state law as a ‘Declared Aboriginal Place’, it was once a historical meeting point for trade and journeys to Mount Bogong for the local Wiradjuri people and still holds deep significance.

It’s another popular spot for fishing, swimming and picnics, while the nearby Water Works area is a great place for spotting wildlife. Try your luck seeing platypuses, wood ducks or rainbow bee-eaters.

Adventuring on Lake Hume

1. Walk the dam wall

parent and child look at the view from the damn wall walk at lake hume — Enjoy the view from the dam wall. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

The majestic Lake Hume – a massive man-made reservoir on the Murray River – was once the largest dam in the Southern Hemisphere.

A great way to get acquainted is by walking along the dam wall, taking in views of outflows, electricity turbines and the transmission plant from above. Not to mention vistas of the lake and the Murray. It’s a particularly gorgeous spot for sunsets and sunrises.

A wide sealed walkway gives easy access to the wall, and informative signs and displays along the way educate on the dam’s construction.

2. The High Country Rail Trail

This 44-kilometre trail hugs the shoreline. Stop along the way at the historic town of Tallangatta, relocated to its current position in the 1950s after its original location was flooded. Cross the lake over the bright red Sandy Creek Bridge. Enjoy a lakeside picnic or go for a swim at Ebden, Ludlow’s or Huon Reserve.

3. Water sports

two people watching SUP boarders and a boat our on the water at lake hume — Dive into water sports on Lake Hume.

Lake Hume is a popular local spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. Drop a line or dive right into the clear waters.

Sip and Savour

1. Dux Albury

two people sitting at counter drinking wine inside Dux Albury — Sit down to delicious meals and wine at Dux.

Those looking for a high-end dining experience need to book a table at Dux Albury in the heart of Albury Wodonga. Sit down for curated wine lists, cocktails and share plates. Think starters like burrata with beetroot, chervil, caper berry and sherry, mains like Wagyu sirloin with Café De Paris, red wine and caramelised onions and all manner of fresh seafood.

2. Murray Towns Brewing Co.

people being served lunch at Murray Brewing Co. — Recharge at Murray Brewing Co.

Perched on the banks of the river, Murray Towns Brewing Co . has come a long way since two mates started experimenting in their backyard chook shed. With all beer brewed onsite and a sun-drenched beer garden to drink them in, it’s a perfect stop along a bike ride or walk.

3. Temperance and General

Step into Albury’s original laneway bar, Temperance and General . Set inside a historic building, but offering a modern vibe, the bar is locally famous for its cocktail list. Stop in before or after dinner for a creative tipple.

4. BeanStation Cafe

two people drinking coffee at Bean Station albury wodonga — Dine on a modern Australian menu.

Dine on a modern Australian menu , inside the historic Wodonga train station building, dating back to 1873. Pop over in the morning and line up with the locals for great coffee and all-day brekkie, or head over after midday to swap the beans for local wines and Aussie boutique beers.

5. River Deck Cafe

waiter holding two dishes at Riverdeck Cafe albury wodonga — Soak in views and good food at Riverdeck Cafe. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Another dining destination next to the Murray, the award-winning River Deck Cafe provides a large deck covered in dappled sunlight that makes for the ideal long lunch spot. Here, menus focus on natural, native and local ingredients sourced from regional farmers and producers across Albury Wodonga and surrounds.

Museums, murals and more

1. Albury Wodonga Public Art Trail

Gain a sense of Albury Wodonga’s vibrant arts community while wandering the Public Art Trail. Works range from sculptures and murals to wrapped infrastructure. Be sure to check the council map before you head out, so you don’t miss a thing.

2. Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA)

couple admiring the art at Murray Art Gallery — Stop into one of the most visited galleries outside of Sydney. (Image: Visit Albury Wodonga)

MAMA forms the heart of art and culture in Albury Wodonga, some may say the entire Murray region. In fact, it’s one of the most visited galleries outside of Sydney. What makes it so lauded? The museum has earned a reputation for curating innovative, original exhibitions from some of the best contemporary Australian and international artists.

3. HotHouse Theatre

Originally built in 1928 as the Butter Factory Theatre, HotHouse Theatre has been a home of performance since 1997. Stop by to see the best of new Australian theatre. Continue to explore unique architecture on the Historic Building Walking Tour of Albury, the perfect way to round out your stay.

Start planning your Albury Wodonga getaway at visitalburywodonga.com.