Why you should spend (at least) 72 hours in Braidwood this spring
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You’ll need more than a weekend to discover all the charms of the heritage-listed town of Braidwood. We have your essential guide.
Already planning a spring getaway? Located between Canberra and the pristine coastline of Southern New South Wales, there’s a little town that you need to spend at least 72 hours in. Because Braidwood is more than just a stopover on the way to the beach—it’s a road trip destination all on its own.
Recently named the Canberra Region’s Top Tourism Town in the ‘Small Town’ category, the heritage-listed town promises the ultimate country holiday destination for anyone looking for the perfect mix of tranquillity and bustling food, wine, and shopping culture.
And with lots to uncover, you’ll need at least three days to truly get the best of relaxing, eating, and exploring the best of Braidwood and its surrounds.
Full of hidden gems (including an abundance of unique cafes, boutiques, galleries, and more), here’s our guide on where to eat, drink, play, and stay in Braidwood this spring.
EAT
Provisions. Credit: Kimberley Low.
Provisions Deli & Creperie
Bringing a taste of France to the streets of Braidwood, brunch at this gourmet deli, pantry and creperie is a must. But first, we recommend exploring the artisan produce on offer in the deli (which includes local and international cheese, charcuteries, and other pantry staples), before settling down for one of their mind-blowing French galettes.
All are made with gluten-free Australian buckwheat flour and served with a side salad—with options ranging from the La Raclette (raclette cheese, prosciutto, caramelised onions, potatoes, and cornichons), to the Braidwood Classic (cheese, bacon, Braidwood black garlic aioli, avocado, and egg), there is something for any taste.
Make sure to leave room for one of their crepes for dessert—who can resist the combination of pears, whipped cream, mixed berry coulis, and pistachios?—and add a glass of wine for a truly decadent experience.
Open seven days a week | 56 Wallace Street, Braidwood | provisionsbraidwood.com.au
The Albion Café
If you’re planning a busy day exploring the region, a breakfast spread from The Albion might be what you need. Serving fresh, local, seasonal, and free-range products (including sourdough from Three Mills Bakery and coffee from Lonsdale Street Roasters), expect comforting country meals that are available for dine-in or takeaway—depending on what you would prefer.
And from brunch classics to burgers, there’s something to suit every palate. A hot tip? They also have freshly frozen meals which you can take back to your accommodation for later—including curries, Bolognese, stews, and more.
Open Thursday to Tuesday | 119 Wallace Street, Braidwood | thealbionbraidwood.com.au
Dojo Bread
Locally owned and operated, this just might be Braidwood’s best-kept secret. Dojo Bread specialises in artisan German-style bread, ranging from the crusty and crumbly White Vienna to The Brick—a classic German bread that they recommend eating with flavourful cheese, pickled herrings, and (of course) a beer.
But don’t worry if you’d rather have something that’s a bit easier to grab and go, you can also pick up fresh pies, sausage rolls, and cakes!
Open Monday to Saturday | 90 Wallace Street, Braidwood | dojobread.com.au
Smokey Horse
The Smokey Horse is more than a restaurant—it’s also one of the most vibrant spots in town. A bar and live music venue, the menu here offers a taste of the Himalayas with meals that range from momos to choila and a wide range of curries alongside quality local wine and craft beer. Cheers to that.
Open Thursday to Sunday | 183 Wallace Street, Braidwood | facebook.com/smokeyhorse
DRINK
Contentious Character. Credit: Destination NSW.
With the Bungendore Wine Trail just a short drive away, adding some regional wine tastings to your itinerary is a must. But first, there are some local drops you should start with before you hit the road…
Hold Fast Distillery
The first licensed distillery in Braidwood, Hold Fast can be found in the bowels of the Braidwood Hotel.
A gin, whisky, vodka, and liqueur lover’s dream (with over 10 products to choose from) here you can taste and shop some exceptional local drops that have been created using a Scottish distilling process and a Japanese approach to blending. But all using local produce, of course.
Open Monday to Sunday | 180 Wallace Street, Braidwood | holdfastdistillery.com.au
Lark Hill
Love a glass of wine? Located close to Braidwood, Lark Hill is the place to go if you’d like a vino with a view of the vines. Established in 1978, the family-run business produces organic, biodynamic, and sustainable wines that are best enjoyed with lunch with their on-site restaurant partner, Agostinis at Lark Hill Winery (which is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). Intimate yet casual, you’ll never want to leave.
Open Friday to Monday | 31 Joe Rocks Road, Bungendore | larkhill.wine
Contentious Character
If you’ve had a Contentious Character wine before, you know why they’re the talk of the town. Located just a stone’s throw away in Wamboin, add this winery, cellar door, and restaurant to your itinerary for an unforgettable tasting experience (including a food menu that’s a blend of Japanese and Australian cuisine, designed to perfectly complement their cool climate wines).
Open Thursday to Monday | 810 Norton Road, Wamboin | contentiouscharacter.com.au
Norton Road Wines
At this family-owned vineyard (known for growing and making small-batch cool climate wines), you’ll discover delicious drops that reflect the terroir of the region. And with delicious, slow-cooked BBQ from Biggie’s Barbecue (think: deep-fried oysters, sticky bourbon BBQ pork ribs and 12-hour smoked brisket) on the menu, it’s the perfect combination of a relaxed atmosphere and great drops.
Open Friday to Sunday | 344 Norton Road, Wamboin | nortonroadwines.com.au
PLAY
Sandalwood Homewares. Credit: Fiction Agency.
Braidwood Museum
If you’d like to learn about the town’s history, the Braidwood Museum is the place to go. Boasting an impressive collection celebrating every aspect of the region’s history, you’ll discover artifacts and photos showcasing stories of the gold rushes, First Nations people, bushrangers, and even Chinese pioneers. Add it to the list and prepare to learn something new.
Open Friday and Saturday | 186 Wallace Street, Braidwood | braidwoodmuseum.org.au
Get off the beaten track
With plenty of beautiful natural surroundings, heading out for a bushwalk in the unspoiled natural parks is a great way to start or end a day.
If you head south of town, you’ll discover the Big Hole Walking Track in the stunning Deua—one of the region’s largest national parks. Home to grassy woodlands, swaps, rivers, and mountains, we recommend making time to marvel at the Big Hole (a massive roofless cave that’s over 100 metres deep and 50 metres wide). If you decide to head north, you’ll find Bundawang National Park and the rugged mountain range that calls it home. It’s a great escape for those looking to get back to nature.
Shop for some unique finds
From furniture and homewares to handmade jewellery and western-inspired fashion, Braidwood’s boutiques and shops are overflowing with unique finds. From Len Mutton & Co—the Braidwood general store that has unique offerings—to Vetro E Metallo and Saloon Design House, spend an afternoon wandering around the main street to see what you can find.
You never know—you might walk away with a vintage treasure or a handmade gift for someone special.
STAY
Mona Farm. Image by the HerCanberra team.
Mona Farm
You’ll be sure to have sweet dreams at Mona Farm—a stunning curation that combines luxurious accommodation, nature, and art. On this 124-acre property, you’ll stay among their award-winning gardens in guest houses that blend old-world charm (thanks to their beautiful heritage looks) and new-world comforts (like a heated spa and extensive collections of art).
Perfect if you’re searching for a luxurious get-away, their ‘Stay, Wine & Dine’ package includes a Ploughman’s Board on arrival, dinner on your first night, a complimentary mini-bar that’s refreshed daily, and even breakfast the next day. In short, booking a few nights here is very, very worth it.
140 Little River Road, Braidwood | monafarm.com.au
The Doncaster
Hidden in a beautiful garden, The Doncaster is a unique guest house that’s full of history. Originally built as one of the first grand hotels in Braidwood, it’s now privately owned by Interior Designer Gabriele Borscz, who has turned it into a haven of relaxation. Full of vintage charm (including hand-crafted furniture) inside each room you’ll discover thoughtful additions to the restoration—including botanical linen bedheads. It ticks all the boxes.
1 Park Lane, Braidwood | thedoncaster.com.au
Bedervale
This heritage National Trust-listed homestead is scenic, cosy, and the epitome of a relaxed country getaway. And as a working, grazing property, booking the Bed & Breakfast here promises to be the ultimate farm stay—including a full country breakfast that you can prepare for yourself.
Monkittee Street, Braidwood | bedervale.com
Feature image: Adam McGrath.
