Six hidden gems to explore this weekend in Gundaroo
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A small community with a lot to offer—Gundaroo has something to keep you occupied all day and night. Sounds like it’s time to explore!
Now, we’re sure you’ve heard about Gundaroo, or even driven through it. But have you experienced some of these special little spots that make this town so great? Buckle up, because we’ve got your next weekend sorted!
Located 30 minutes from Gungahlin, Gundaroo is a picturesque country town with plenty of character and charm. As soon as you enter the town, you’ll see the numerous heritage buildings that line the streets, many of which now house tenants and businesses.
A further lazy crawl reveals more of the friendly community that runs the town, from a chalkboard advertising a movie night in the hall to the friendly waves and greetings that have become second nature amongst locals. What are you waiting for?
Cork St Café
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Located in the police stables behind the old police station, this little café is the epitome of a ‘hidden gem’. Ferried by twinkling lights down a secret pathway, you’ll find yourself at the Cork St Café—affectionately known as the ‘Pizza Place’ by locals. Specialising in gourmet pizzas (as the nickname suggests) this café prioritises local products and produce, so you know you’ll be eating the freshest food!
Enjoy a yummy coffee out of their locally crafted mugs as you stop to take a breath of fresh air and be sure to have a wonder around inside and see the horse troughs lining the walls and admire the enchanting atmosphere that has spanned many decades.
Open Thursday to Sunday with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, we would highly recommend giving this gorgeous café a visit.
Open Thursday – Sunday | 24 Cork St, Gundaroo | corkstreetcafe.com
Santa’s Shaped Christmas Tree Farm
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Yes, we know it’s September, but how great is this establishment? Just outside of Gundaroo lies a Christmas tree farm!
Run by a beautiful local family, all trees are hand shaped by a machete (no we aren’t kidding!) and are tended to all year round. It’s a fairly simple process:
- Pick out your tree of choice
- Pick up or delivery
- Enjoy your Christmas!
What’s Christmas without the tree? Be sure to bookmark this site because we know we’ve just found your new (and possibly favourite) Christmas tradition!
Open 20 November–24 December | 4144 Gundaroo Rd, Gundaroo | christmastrees.net.au
Gundaroo Colonial Inn
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What’s a country town without a pub? Initially established in 1872, and formerly known as Matt Crowe’s Wine Bar, this pub has gained multiple liquor licenses over the years in stages. Due to this, most areas of the pub are family friendly and are not under the limitations that other hotels (or otherwise) are required to follow.
The Colonial Inn has been continuously operating since its establishment and is a favourite haunt by all! Packed with karaoke night, live musicians, and regular raffles (amongst many other activities), this pub has the perfect mix of cheer, heart, and charm.
Open Wednesday – Sunday | 23 Cork St, Gundaroo | thegundarooinn.com
Grazing Gundaroo
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Often the venue of choice for many wedding receptions, this award-winning restaurant is a beautiful mix of class and refinement with a hint of country sophistication. Housed in the historic Gundaroo Hotel this restaurant is perfect for your next evening out. With gorgeous stone walls, tall fireplaces and dark wood, it doesn’t just promise you a good time—though that’s a guarantee—but an experience not to be missed.
Split into multiple different dining rooms, you are sure to enjoy the cosy atmosphere with your friends and family without the hustle and bustle other restaurants face. And with an innovative menu and promising wine list (featuring the best from local wineries) Grazing is sure to become your favourite venue for fine-dining.
Open Thursday – Sunday | 42 Cork St, Gundaroo | grazing.com.au
Gundog Cork St Cellar
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Located behind Grazing, Gundog Cellar offers wine tastings from the Canberra, Hilltops and Hunter regions. With dark wood features, well-tended gardens, and a wine list to die for, this is one experience you don’t want to miss out on. With a strong belief in sustainable vineyard practices, you are be assured that all wine has been quality tested and passes their high standards.
But don’t worry if you don’t drink wine—a carefully sourced selection of coffee and teas has also been curated along with a variety of cheese platters and charcuterie boards to perfectly compliment your tastings. All in all, you’re sure to have a good time.
Open Thursday to Monday | 42 Cork St, Gundaroo (Behind Grazing) | gundogestate.com.au
The Nest
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Already fallen in love with this small community and want to extend your stay? Look no further than this stunning short-stay bed and breakfast located in the centre of the main street. With four villas, one bridal suite and the heritage listed cottage (Clemenger’s Cottage), The Nest is the perfect establishment to unwind for a day or two.
Two of the villas feature two-story lofts with a king bed so you can see the view from above! Alternatively, the Heron suite has all the luxuries one might want for a honeymoon suite with a double shower and bathtub, open plan space and veranda while all lodgings have woodfired heating and offer the luxuries of a hotel with the charisma of a rural community. Owned and run by a local family, The Nest—like the rest of Gundaroo—is sure to charm your socks off and have you returning again, and again!
56 Cork St, Gundaroo | thenestgundaroo.com.au
