Five summer road trip destinations a short drive from Canberra
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The summer holidays might be over, but that doesn’t mean you need to give up the holiday mindset.
Even as we return to the nine-to-five grind, there are plenty of opportunities to escape Canberra and explore some of the stunning areas in the surrounding region. From a day spent on sandy beaches to wandering through country towns, here are five summer road trip destinations a short drive from Canberra.
Braidwood
Only an hour’s drive away, Braidwood is the perfect place to go if you want to get away for only a day.
The vibe: A quintessential country town, you can’t help but love the easy-going nature of the locals. But don’t be fooled – while it might look quiet on the surface, there’s plenty to discover.
Why we love it: Quirky fashion, jewellery and vintage boutiques, rustic streetscapes, and plenty of country pubs, cafés and bakeries (hello, freshly baked pies) for when hunger strikes. What’s not to love about this little gem?
Jervis Bay
In the heart of Jervis Bay, you’ll find a vibrant town and plenty of unspoilt natural beauty. But there’s more to this destination than meets the eye.
The vibe: There’s something incredibly magical about Shoalhaven in the summer. With white sandy beaches, clear blue water, and welcoming hospitality, you can’t help but want to immerse yourself in the relaxed lifestyle and make the most of the natural surrounds.
Why we love it: With plenty of charming seaside towns and villages to explore in the area as well as plenty of breathtaking walks to help you reset and return to nature, you won’t ever be short on things to do. And full of small coastal cafés, microbreweries, fine dining restaurants, and seaside bistros, it’s also a foodie’s delight – did someone say dining amongst the treetops?
Bowral
Bowral is the embodiment of Southern Highlands charm and an idyllic place to spend a day.
The vibe: With lush landscapes and award-winning eateries all oozing quiet charm, Bowral is the ultimate cosmopolitan getaway. Add in cool-climate wineries and boutique shops, and it’s the perfect escape.
Why we love it: Just a two-hour drive from Canberra, Bowral is home to an abundance of things to do. From browsing at the original Dirty Janes for vintage and antique jewellery, homewares, and clothing, to indulging in award-winning pastries, cakes, and pies at Gumnuts Patisserie and having a leisurely lunch at The Press Shop, the hours will fly by.
Berrima
Just a short drive from Bowral, Berrima is another country town worth visiting during the summer months. With the same scenic Southern Highlands allure and only 90 minutes down the Hume Highway, summed up in a word, this town is wholesome.
The vibe: An historic town full of character and charm, Berrima fuses beautifully preserved Georgian heritage with bespoke eateries, boutiques, and more. Taking you back in time and away from the hustle and bustle of city life, it’s a summer escape with a focus on the ‘escape’.
Why we love it: Home to award-winning restaurant Eschalot, the Berkelouw Book Barn, Australia’s oldest licensed hotel (the Surveyor General Inn) and Bendooley Estate, this idyllic village might be small, but it’s mighty. Encouraging you to slow down and breathe in the country air, a trip here will help you reset, refresh and feel ready for a new week.
Bermagui
Home to stunning beaches, ocean pools, and coastal walks, seeing Bermagui’s blue waters is a must-do in the summer.
The vibe: A small, vibrant natural paradise that offers an incredibly diverse range of attractions all year round, Bermagui is a quiet coastal haven that will leave you feeling refreshed after a visit.
Why we love it: A scenic 3.5-hour drive from Canberra, you’ll be spoiled for choice. From seafood, Italian, Asian, European, and modern Australian eateries to wine bars and more casual cafes, foodies (like us) will be in heaven. And with plenty of coastal bush walks to explore and fantastic fishing, this beautiful seaside village has more to explore than the beach.
Feature image: Adam McGrath.
