Conveniently located between the Nation’s Capital, Canberra, and the pristine coastline of Southern NSW, the heritage-listed town of Braidwood is the perfect country destination for those looking for a slice of tranquility.
Bustling with life, yet surrounded by Australian history, Braidwood offers the ultimate country get away complete with stories of bushrangers, gold seekers and more. The beautiful sun-dappled walks and unspoiled national parks, coupled with the award-winning cool climate wines and hand-crafted treasures on offer make for an unforgettable stay.
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Braidwood and Surrounds
As a NSW State Heritage listed town, it is common knowledge that Braidwood has colonial roots that date back to the first European settlement of the region and, long before that, a rich Indigenous history of the Yuin Nation.
Explore a bygone era as you walk along the streets of Braidwood on a self-guided heritage tour of over 45 historic locations or pay a visit to the amazing Braidwood Museum which boasts an impressive collection of preserved artefacts and photos that tell the story of the town and its people, including fascinating stories of Chinese pioneers. Walk along Braidwood’s main street and you may even recognise some of the rustic and rural streetscapes from iconic Australian films, such as Ned Kelly starring Mick Jagger and The Year My Voice Broke with Ben Mendelsohn.
Well-known for its creative community, Braidwood boasts a range of art galleries, showrooms, jewelers and more. Find new pieces of art for your home at Studio Altenburg and the seasonal exhibitions at BRAG and Fyre Gallery or visit the local artists’ studios during the annual Arts Trail in the Spring. Browse antiques, vintage treasures and collectables at Born Vintage, The Vintage Drawer and more, or browse furniture and unique homewares at Sandalwood and Len Mutton and Co. Upgrade your jewelry collection with handmade pieces from William Verdon, Thompson Bespoke Jewelers and VandM, and spoil yourself with gorgeous western-inspired fashion from Saloon Design House.
It’s no secret that Braidwood has long been regarded as the perfect pit stop for a pie on the way to the coast, and for good reason. The Town’s most beloved bakeries, Dojo Bread and Braidwood Bakery have become an unmissable tradition for visitors travelling in the Region. In addition to the irresistible bakeries, Braidwood is packed with a variety of local eateries dishing up paddock-to-plate produce.
Find your new favourite among Braidwood’s array of quirky Cafés, eclectic restaurants and traditional pubs. Choose from a range of cuisines from classic Australian to the delicious Himalayan flavours of Smokey Horse and the indulgent French galettes of Provisions Deli and Creperie and more, or opt for a classic pub meal at Royal Mail Hotel or Braidwood Hotel, known for its pink façade that’s stood in the corner of Wallace Street and Park Lane since 1852 and is also now home to Hold Fast Distillery.
Round off the day by tucking in for a peaceful night at one of Braidwood’s many unique accommodation providers–from magnificent homesteads surrounded by lush gardens at Mona Farm to tiny house getaways in a relaxed rural setting at Braidwood Farm Stay and Café. Alternatively, check in at one of the local boutique guest houses, such as The Doncaster or Bedervale, or call in at Cedar Lodge or the Colonial Motel to stay the night in the heart of the town.
Venture out a little further and you’ll find award- winning cool climate wineries that sit on the rolling hills of Wamboin and Bywong. Enjoy a wine tasting at Norton Road Wines, Contentious Character or Lark Hill, or visit Bungendore Village and pop into Sapling Yard Cellar Door for a tasting. You also won’t want to miss the wineries’ on-site restaurants–from low and slow style American BBQ at Biggie’s BBQ and Italian classics at Agostinis at Lark Hill to the modern Australian flavours of Contentious Character.
If you’re dreaming of escaping to unspoiled national parks, you’ve come to the right place. The region is home to Monga, Deua, Tallaganda, Budawang and Morton National Parks, giving you plenty of options for outdoor adventures whether you’re looking for an easy stroll through vast bushland, thrilling mountain biking tracks or camping under the stars. With all this and more on offer, what are you waiting for? Visit Braidwood and surrounds and find your treasure.
