Right in the heart of the Southern Highlands, Bowral is the most popular town in the region, which means there are lots of options for accommodation.
This generally isn’t a town where people are passing through or coming for business. This is a holiday destination and so most of the places to stay in Bowral are focused on creating an environment where you want to relax.
The best accommodation in Bowral embraces the heritage and country charm of the Southern Highlands, and you’ll find that in both budget and boutique options.
Unfortunately, accommodation in Bowral isn’t cheap – but at least there are lots of quality places to choose from. And there’s a great variety: from motels, to houses, small hotels, and large complexes with lots of amenities.
If you have a car and don’t mind driving, you’ll find some of the best places to stay in Bowral are a short distance from the centre, in the countryside (which brings its own sense of relaxation).
But there are also some great hotels and houses close to the centre, which makes it easier to walk to restaurants and bars. (The parking can be difficult on weekends, so that’s a bonus!)
Even if you’re just coming for the weekend from Canberra or Sydney, I would recommend staying two nights so you get to enjoy the accommodation properly.
It’s easy to fill your time shopping, eating, drinking, or exploring some sights like the Bradman Museum.
You may be interested in my story about the best things to do in Bowral.
Anyway, with all that in mind, let’s now have a look at some of the best places to stay in Bowral.
Best overall
For my top recommendation of where to stay in Wagga Wagga, I’ve chosen a relatively small boutique hotel because of its serenity, comfort, and heritage value.
There are some other great larger hotels, as well as good apartments and motels in Wagga Wagga, but I love The Houston because it offers something really special that stands out from more generic options.
Berida Hotel
Often the Southern Highlands can feel like a little Australian version of the English countryside, and what you get at Berida Hotel is a perfect encapsulation of exactly that.
Built in 1925 as a country manor, the large building is filled with moody wooden rooms decorated with antique pieces. Ivy covers the arches outside, there’s beautiful wallpaper throughout the property, and a suit of armour even stands guard at the staircase!
But, even with all these nods to the heritage, Berida Hotel has also been renovated with all the modern conveniences and comforts you would expect for one of the must luxurious places to stay in Bowral.
There are 43 rooms of different sizes from a petite double right up to the grand suite. Each room is uniquely decorated, with extremely comfortable beds, luxury toiletries, air conditioning, and coffee facilities.
The hotel offers room service, but there’s also the popular Bistro Sociale restaurant the Aspinalls Bar & Lounge. A breakfast buffet is available and included in some room rates.
Although it’s tempting to spend an afternoon in the lounge reading a book, central Bowral is only a ten-minute walk away. You get the benefits of feeling like you’re in a country estate, while still being basically in the heart of the action.
Because there are only eleven suites, The Houston can fill up quite quickly, especially during busy periods, so I recommend booking well in advance.
Best budget
As it’s more of an upmarket destination, there aren’t too many motels or budget accommodation in Bowral, but these options are relatively affordable.
BEST: Oxley Motel
Bowral is generally not cheap but you’ll get good value rooms at the Oxley Motel… although it is a bit dated.
Golfview Lodge
Although it’s quite basic, Golfview Lodge is clean and comfortable and, as the name suggests, overlooks a golf course.
Imperial Motel
With a relatively modern design, the Imperial Motel has nice rooms at a pub in the centre of town.
Best house
If you’re coming for a weekend with friends or plan an even longer stay, having a bit more space might be a good choice for your best accommodation in Bowral.
BEST: Belle in Bowral
For a family or large group, the three bedrooms at Belle in Bowral give you lots of space in a well-appointed house.
Highgate
Set on expansive gardens, Highgate is an elegant retreat with soaring ceilings, fireplace, media room, play areas and a treetop mezzanine.
The Little Terrace Bowral
Set in a quiet neighbourhood, The Little Terrace has a charming garden, full kitchen, fireplace and secure gated entry for peace of mind.
Best boutique
It’s not surprising that in a town known for antiques, art, and boutique shopping, there are also some gorgeous places to stay.
BEST: Berida Hotel
Among peaceful gardens and period charm, Berida Hotel delivers boutique luxury with a spa, indoor pool, restaurant, and roaring fires in the guest lounge.
Links House
Surrounded by gardens and full of charm, Links House offers a relaxed country feel with fire-warmed lounges and great breakfast.
The Hidden Door Bowral Villa
The Hidden Door Bowral Villa blends historical charm with modern comfort, featuring a gas fire, ducted air-con, and smart TV — all set behind a white picket fence in a leafy garden.
Best luxury
There are a couple of luxury hotels in Bowral aimed at the events and conference sector, but most of the top end embraces the town’s highland heritage.
BEST: Milton Park Country House
For a classic Southern Highlands experience, Milton Park Country House is on a sprawling estate with historic gardens and tennis courts.
Peppers Craigieburn Resort
Surrounded by manicured gardens and a private golf course, Peppers Craigieburn Resort blends historic character with elegant rooms and a fine-dining restaurant.
Park Proxi Gibraltar Bowral
Popular for events like conferences, Park Proxi Gibraltar Bowral combines modern style with an 18-hole golf course and great onsite dining.
