Itineraries Home » New South Wales Itineraries » Northern Lights in the Southern Hemisphere: A Mesmerizing Day in Bowral
Embarking on a day trip from Sydney to Bowral offers an exciting escape to the scenic wonders of the Southern Highlands region. This picturesque town is not only renowned for its breathtaking landscapes but also offers a delightful blend of cultural, natural, and culinary experiences. This itinerary takes you on a journey through Bowral's highlights, including the Don Bradman Museum, Corbett Gardens, Bowral Lookout and lastly, the enchanting Borealis in the Vines event at Centennial Vineyards.
Getting there
Bowral is located approximately 115 kilometres southwest of Sydney and the journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
If you prefer to travel by train instead, you can catch a direct train from Sydney’s Central Station to Bowral Station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours, and trains run regularly throughout the day. The train ride provides scenic views of the countryside, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey. Once you arrive at Bowral Station, you can easily explore the town on foot or opt for local transportation options.
Stop #1 - Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame
Our first stop for the day was the Don Bradman Museum, a must-visit destination for cricket enthusiasts and fans of the legendary cricketer Sir Donald Bradman. Plenty of free parking is available at the site and timed parking in the neighbouring streets as well.
The exhibits immerse us in the history of the sport and showcases Bradman's achievements and memorabilia. The museum is a great opportunity to gain insights into the life of one of cricket's greatest icons. We spent slightly over 1.5 hours and thoroughly enjoyed the interactive displays and engaging multimedia presentations.
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Stop #2 - Corbett Gardens via The Bradman Walk
Afterward, we had our lunch in one of the many picnic tables in Glebe Park outside the museum and then embarked on the Bradman Walk, a picturesque 1.7km trail that takes you through some of the historic sites associated with Sir Donald Bradman. The leisurely walk takes around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and the time spent at each stop.
The map for the walk is provided below, courtesy of the Bradman Museum.
We leisurely wandered through the charming streets of Bowral, admiring the picturesque houses and verdant surroundings that held special meaning for Bradman and his love for cricket. Bowral is also a delightful destination for shopping enthusiasts, with its array of boutique shops along the Bradman Walk.
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One of the stops in the Bradman Walk is Corbett Gardens, a stunning public garden known for its manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and a diverse range of flora. Visitors can wander along meandering pathways, appreciate the beauty of seasonal blooms, and relax in shaded areas surrounded by lush greenery. Corbett Gardens is not only a botanical delight but also a cherished space for picnics, leisurely walks, and quiet contemplation.
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Do note that the garden is also renowned for the Tulip Time Festival, held annually in September, which showcases an extensive display of tulips in various varieties and hues, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle that attracts visitors from near and far. The festival also features live music performances, cultural exhibits, and delicious food stalls, providing a perfect blend of entertainment and relaxation. Tulip Time Festival in Bowral not only celebrates the beauty of spring but also fosters a sense of community spirit and appreciation for nature. It's a perfect opportunity for people to come together, enjoy the breathtaking floral displays, and immerse themselves in the charm of Bowral's welcoming environment.
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Stop #3 - Bowral Lookout
After completing the leisurely Bradman Walk, we continued our exploration of Bowral by making our way to the magnificent Bowral Lookout.
As the sun had already set, we were in for a delightful surprise. The lookout, situated atop a scenic hill and short 5 minute walk on an easy trail from the carpark, offered a completely different experience in the darkness of the evening. As we reached the viewing platform, our eyes were immediately drawn to the mesmerizing sight before us. The city below was aglow with twinkling lights, creating a captivating scene of illuminated beauty. It was a truly enchanting moment, as we stood there taking in the breathtaking views, witnessing the city come alive in a whole new light.
Last Stop - Borealis in the Vines @ Centennial Vineyards
We capped off our day with a visit to the Centennial Vineyards for the Borealis in the Vines event.
Borealis in the Vines, inspired by the ethereal phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights), is a truly enchanting event that takes place at Centennial Vineyards in Bowral between 25th of May and the 30th of June 2023. As the sun sets and darkness descends, the vineyard is transformed into a magical wonderland illuminated by a breathtaking display of lights designed to mimic the mesmerizing patterns and vibrant colours of the northern lights. The intertwining beams of light dance across the vineyard, casting an otherworldly glow that evokes a sense of awe and wonder.
The event also had many food vendors offering a variety of food and drinks. Accompanied by the soothing melodies of the background music and complemented by delectable food and wine offerings, Borealis in the Vines provides a multisensory experience that captures the imagination and creates an unforgettable atmosphere. It is a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of the Aurora Borealis in the Southern Hemisphere, adding an extra touch of magic to your day trip experience! You can book your tickets for the Borealis in the Vines event here.
Please take note that Borealis in the Vines is an open-air event, so we strongly recommend you to pack warm winter clothes and dress in layers to ensure your comfort throughout the evening. We can confirm that the venue gets quite chilly, so come prepared to fully enjoy the event! However, we were so glad so see that the event management also provided free campfires scattered throughout the venue, offering a cozy gathering spot to relax and bask in the inviting ambiance. Feel free to bring your own chairs to enhance your comfort and fully enjoy the warmth and comfort of the campfires.
We then bid farewell to Bowral and began our journey back to Sydney, reminiscing on the memorable experiences and picturesque landscapes that made our day trip truly special.
If you find yourself visiting Bowral in the summer, when daylight hours are longer, there are a few more attractions in the region that you may want to explore:
- Southern Highlands Botanical Gardens: Located near Bowral, the botanical gardens offer a serene and picturesque escape. Explore the diverse range of plant species, enjoy leisurely walks along the pathways, and bask in the tranquility of this natural oasis.
- Make sure not to miss the breathtaking sunset views from Mittagong Lookout and Jellore Lookout in Mt. Gibraltar Reserve. Just a stone's throw away from Bowral Lookout, these elevated viewpoints offer awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding landscapes. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting its golden hues across the rolling hills and lush greenery of the Southern Highlands, you'll be treated to a spectacle of natural beauty that is not to be missed. Take the time to soak in the tranquil ambiance and witness the magic of dusk from these stunning vantage points.
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