Six regional travel destinations to book in 2026
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Forget international travel – these regional destinations deserve a spot on your 2026 holiday list.
While everyone loves a long holiday overseas, for those with limited time (and funds), a regional getaway is a great way to scratch the travel itch. And with country towns, beachside escapes and alpine abodes all just a day trip away, why wouldn’t you want to make the most of the convenience?
Here are six regional travel destinations to book in 2026 – all under five hours’ drive from Canberra.
Braidwood
Mona Farm. Image supplied.
Located between Canberra and the pristine coastline of Southern New South Wales, Braidwood is more than just a stopover – it’s a destination.
Known for its charming colonial buildings, rustic streetscapes and rural beauty, Braidwood is also a hub for creatives and foodies alike, with quirky boutiques and galleries, artisan bakeries and cosy country pubs. An hour and 10 minutes away from Canberra, it’s just far enough away to justify a night’s stay.
Our recommendations: The Albion for a seasonal breakfast made with local produce, Dojo Bread for German-style sourdough and Mona Farm for an unforgettable getaway that blends contemporary art with old-world charm and new-world comforts.
Mollymook
GWYLO.
For those looking to reconnect with nature, this beachside town will help you do just that. Known for beautiful surf beaches, amazing regional dining experiences and breathtaking ocean views, it’s the escape you should book when all you want to do is relax.
An ideal destination to visit all year round (with swimming in the summer and whale watching in winter), it’s just over two and a half hours from Canberra, but it will feel like a world away.
Our recommendations: Dolphins Mollymook for retro-inspired rooms, ocean air and a relaxed feel, GWYLO for Asian street eats and cocktails, and a short trip to Ulladulla for dessert from Mavi Gelati.
The Snowies
Crafters.
You’d be forgiven for thinking a trip to the Snowies needs to be saved for the winter.
Known for the amazing skiing and snowboarding that draw travellers from far and wide, here the best adventures aren’t always found in the mountains – they’re also found on a plate.
Home to a growing food scene that fuses stunning mountain views with alpine fare, plan your foodie adventure and enjoy the serenity.
Our recommendations: Crafters Luxury Eco Accommodation to get off the grid without giving up modern day comforts, Wildbrumby for award-winning schnapps, gin and vodka and Shut The Gate for a unique experience in the form of a combined wine bar, premium providore, gourmet grocer and liquor store.
Wollongong
Park Road Wine.
Looking for a coastal escape that delivers on the food front? Wollongong is the place to go. Around two and a half hours from Canberra, don’t let the golden beaches fool you – this is a city that’s fun, vibrant and buzzing with places to eat.
With 17 patrolled beaches, lush rainforests and a bustling bar scene, it offers the best of both worlds: nature and nightlife.
Our recommendations: RUKI Bar for Japanese robatayaki and casual cocktails, a short trip into Thirroul to visit Park Road Wine for lo-fi drinking and simple food and Stanwell Tops for jaw-dropping views (and obligatory soft service from the ice cream van).
Nowra
Tara Distillery.
Located on the banks of the Shoalhaven River, Nowra is not only a great base for day-tripping to Kangaroo Valley and Jervis Bay – it’s worth its own weekend getaway. With river scenery and a peaceful bushland, this gem is home to many great foodie experiences (thanks to the rich farmland and vineyards, and as part of Australia’s Oyster Coast) as well as natural charm.
Also brimming with history, it’s well worth taking some time to explore it for yourself.
Our recommendations: Tara Distillery for whiskey, coffee liquor, limoncello and gin, Blak Cede Gunyah for Indigenous food and hospitality and Shoalhaven Zoo for an experience the whole family will enjoy.
Mudgee
Four and a half hours from Canberra, Mudgee is the perfect long weekend escape for those who can’t resist good food, great wine and genuine country town charm.
Offering everything from art workshops in vineyard settings to learning the art of chocolate making to sipping drinks in one of the state’s oldest wine bars, this destination has something for every kind of traveller.
Our recommendations: Roth’s Wine Bar to sample Mudgee’s top vineyards, Gigi’s for farm-to-table fare and The Clairfield for a boutique stay.
