“CityNews” highlights some of the picturesque landscapes, historic communities and fascinating events, on Canberra’s doorstop.

THE taste of a fresh, morning coffee, loading up the car, pulling out of the driveway – it all adds to the magical feeling of heading out on a road trip.

And, luckily for Canberrans, the nation’s capital is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, historic communities and fascinating events.

Whether looking for a holiday or just a quick weekend getaway, here’s some premier, nearby destinations.

* (Kilometres are approximates from the CityNews office in Mitchell ACT, to the town centres).

EDEN 278kms*

Hotel renovation that honours its history

AFTER being closed for more than a decade, Eden’s Hotel Australasia reopened in 2022, after a two-year renovation, says sales and marketing manager Hanna Marshall.

“We have eight boutique hotel rooms, all individually styled and decorated to pay homage to the building’s heritage with luxury and upmarket finishes.

“Downstairs we have a wine bar and bistro called Pikes. Our bistro will soon be undergoing a name and style change to authentic Italian. Our pizza chef, Pietro, is from Sardinia and is injecting his flavour into our new menu.”

Hanna says the new menu will be launched on April 3, as well as a new breakfast menu.

“There is nothing like Hotel Australasia in Eden, it offers the region something more luxurious than what is currently on offer,” she says.

“Hotel Australasia has a long history in the town and our renovation has touches throughout to pay tribute to the fishing history and the local, founding families.

Hotel Australasia, 142-144 Imlay Street, Eden. Call 6496 1560, or visit hotelaustralasia.com.au

COOMA 128kms*

Explore the past, present and future of the Snowy Scheme

THE Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre has experiences for everyone, from a virtual flyover of the Snowy Mountains to archival photos from the construction era, 1949-1974, says a Snowy Hydro spokesperson.

“The virtual flyover takes place in our immersive theatre, with a 14-metre wide screen and floor projections,” they say.

The spokesperson says whether you walk, drive or fly, the Discovery Centre is easy to get to, and is just over an hour’s drive south of Canberra.

“Visitors are encouraged to stop for lunch at their Discovery Cafe, for pies, sausage rolls, cakes, sandwiches, coffee or milkshakes,” they say.

“There’s plenty of space to stretch your legs and free wifi available, as well as their Discovery Shop.

“There are caps, books, keyrings and DVDs available to learn more and keep as memories from your visit.”

Snowy Hydro, Monaro Highway, Cooma. Call 1800 623776, or visit snowyhydro.com.au

ORANGE 273kms*

‘Magical’ Orange, a place to visit all year round

ORANGE is proving more and more to be an enticing destination to visit all year round, says Orange 360 general manager Ned Sweetapple.

“Orange is renowned for its highly regarded restaurant and cafe scene, and award-winning, cool-climate wines, but every season in the region brings a unique feel and drawcard,” she says.

“With charming villages nestled in the open countryside, an abundance of natural beauty that is on full display no matter what time of year, outdoor adventures, luxurious accommodation, seasonal festivals and a burgeoning retail sector, it’s no wonder the region is attracting so many visitors.”

Ned says Orange and neighbouring villages offer a robust retail and art scene that is well and truly flourishing, and Orange hosts an array of rich landscapes and dramatic views to explore at Mount Canobolas.

“If you time your visit right, you might even catch the 2023 Winter Fire Festival, August 4-6, with local producers and venues putting on unique events showcasing everything the region has to offer,” says Ned.

“It may be a little crisp outside during the cooler months, but that only adds to the nostalgic appeal, cosying up by restaurant fireplaces, in gorgeous accommodation, being romanced by brilliant red sunsets and warming up with a delicate shiraz in hand at one of over 40 cellar doors.

“Orange is such a unique and magical place this time of year. It’s the perfect time to indulge yourself.”

Orange 360, Orange. Visit orange360.com.au

BODALLA 195kms*

Regional dairy shed with history

BODALLA Dairy opened in 2008 to make dairy products from “amazing Bodalla milk,” say mother and daughter co-owners Jane Stuart and Sandra McCuaig.

“Cheese has been made in Bodalla since 1860, and you can see it being made in our factory today, along with milk, ice cream and yoghurt,” they say.

“We opened on the highway in Bodalla so you can easily stop on your road trip for an old-fashioned milkshake, ice cream, delicious coffee or a cheese toastie.”

Jane and Sandra say they have beautiful gardens for people to relax in, while the kids bottle-feed calves.

“Calf feeding is at 10am and 4pm every day, it’s free and there’s no bookings required,” they say.

“Mum loves Australian native flavours and has come up with delicious combinations to incorporate into cheese, ice cream, and yoghurts,” says Jane.

“Think coffee and wattleseed ice cream, outback saltbush cheddar and lemon myrtle and honey yoghurt – we even naturally smoke an ice cream with gum leaves called ‘Let’s Go Camping’ which has been a real hit.”

The mother, daughter duo want to ensure the cheese and yoghurt making skills, taught since 1860 continue to thrive.

“We are a family of three generations and we’re so delighted to chat to adults reliving memories they had on road trips through Bodalla as kids. They come with their parents, grandparents and kids to make new memories.”

Bodalla Dairy, 52 Princes Highway, Bodalla. Call 4473 5555, or visit bodalladairy.com.au

ULLADULLA 193kms*

A Wombat welcome to try new brews

WOMBAT Brewery opened only three months ago, but local support has been overwhelming, say Aaron and Julie McKay.

“It’s a family owned and operated nano brewery located on the stunning south coast,” says Aaron.

“It’s still a baby, but I’ve been a long-time home brewer.

“Even on long weekends and holidays, it’s 90 per cent locals that show up, but we’re hoping to welcome more people in.”

Julie says Aaron has always been passionate, and opened up Wombat Brewery to share his hobby, and beers, with people.

“We’re in industrial Ulladulla, but there’s beaches, rivers and local restaurants nearby,” she says.

“And over Easter, Ulladulla has the Blessing of the Fleet and fireworks on Sunday.”

They say the focus of Wombat Brewery is family-oriented, with a laid-back, relaxing vibe.

“Kicking back with a few friends, you can sample a few of Aaron’s signature crafted beers made on site,” they say.

“We have rotating food vans, and music every weekend.”

“We’re open Thursday to Sunday, midday to 8pm, and would love everyone to come in and try our brews.”

Wombat Brewery, Unit 6, 1-3 Coller Road, Ulladulla. Call 0429 814328, or visit wombatbrewery.com.au

COWRA 184kms*

Joys of discovering the roads less travelled

VIA European-style cycle touring options with Central West Tours, owner Nicole Moroney says discovering Cowra, the Lachlan Valley and Central West by bicycle is easier than one might think.

“Our e-bike tours guarantee the exhilaration of the fresh air, the breeze on your face and the excitement of finding roads less travelled,” she says.

“We cater for cyclists of all abilities, interests, and fitness levels.”

Nicole says with its rich heritage, culture, welcoming hospitality and unique visitor experiences, the Lachlan Valley could very well become a favourite cycling destination.

“History buffs will love the many heritage sites, tracks, and townships; food lovers will enjoy local produce and coffee stops and lovers of adventure will simply relish every single aspect of the great outdoors. Join us as we explore hidden gems and uncover key attractions in towns of all sizes,” she says.

“Whilst casual and novice riders will love the adaptable pace of guided tours, serious bike riders will welcome the challenges of long rides, varying landscapes, and hundreds of kilometres of painstakingly mapped out trails for their own use.”

Nicole, and cycle-tour guide Jo, are willing to pass on a plethora of tips, tricks and insider information.

“Central West Tours also conducts an annual bus tour to the Parkes Elvis Festival,” says Nicole.

“Central West Tours is the first and only eco-tourism certified company in the Lachlan Valley region.”

Central West Tours, 7/3 Macquarie Street, Cowra. Call 0459 155845, or visit centralwesttours.com.au

COWRA 184kms*

Charming, convenient and comfortable

NO matter what the season, reason, or excuse for a trip to Cowra and the Lachlan Valley, the charming Cowra Motor Inn is a convenient and comfortable place to stay, says owner Nicole Moroney.

“Located in a peaceful but central location, Cowra Motor Inn is situated near shops, cafes, bars, takeaways, and restaurants,” she says.

“With a variety of renovated rooms to suit families, couples, and singles, there is bound to be a room to suit your needs.”

Nicole says she fell in love with Cowra 15 years ago, and since buying the motel in 2014 she enjoys nothing more than welcoming visitors to the region and encouraging them to explore Cowra’s heritage and visitor experiences.

“These include the Japanese Gardens, the prisoner-of-war Camp, the heritage-listed Lachlan Valley railway, art gallery, museum and wineries,” she says.

“With complimentary continental breakfast, great tips in regard to what to see and do, and some fabulous insight into country road bike trails and e-bike tours, it’s easy to see why Cowra Motor Inn is a favoured stop over for lovers of genuine country hospitality and fun times.

Cowra Motor Inn, 3 Macquarie Street, Cowra. Call 6342 2011 or visit cowramotorinn.com.au

COWRA 184kms*

Where there’s ‘beauty in every season’

COWRA is a hidden gem located only two hours from Canberra, says marketing officer Stassi Austin.

“There is beauty in every season in Cowra, especially at the Cowra Japanese Gardens as we head into autumn,” she says.

“We also, in September, have the Cowra fields of gold that locals and visitors alike look forward to, our canola fields.”

Visitors are encouraged to start their day at the Cowra Visitor Information Centre.

“There is a nine-minute presentation on the tragic events of The Cowra Breakout, through the eyes of Claire, a young Cowra local,” says Stassi.

“It’s the best way to start your historical journey through the region.

“Then explore the Cowra Peace Precinct, home to the prisoner of war camp, and stop at the signage dotted around the site.”

Cowra also offers wine and forage tours, says Stassi, that offer visitors the chance to enjoy delicious food and wine of the Cowra and Canowindra region.

“People can also meet the makers of our wonderful, boutique and 75 per cent organic wines at the farm gates and cellar doors, learning along the way.

“Wyangala Dam is perfect for camping and water sports, including boating, fishing and swimming, and located just a short distance from Cowra.

“When at capacity, it is 2.5 times the size of Sydney Harbour.”

Cowra Visitor Information Centre, Cowra. Call 6342 4333, or visit visitcowra.com.au

PARKES 285kms*

‘Beautiful’ and ‘iconic’ Parkes

PARKES sits in the central part of NSW, only three hours drive from Canberra, and surrounds itself with beautiful landscapes and bushland, says visitor service lead for Parkes Shire Council, Lisa Moon.

“Home to the Parkes Radio Telescope, which is famous for being Australia’s key player in the Apollo moon landing and star of the movie, ‘The Dish’, it’s the perfect place to stay whilst exploring Central NSW,” she says.

“The Parkes region also offers historical adventures, agricultural experiences, and amazing events like the Parkes Elvis Festival and Trundle Abba Festival.

“If you love cycling, the Parkes region has some of the best gravel riding in NSW. Come and explore and soak up the country ambience by riding one of our 14 fully mapped, gravel cycling trails ranging from 20-120 kilometres.”

Geographically, Parkes sits in the middle of many other regions, including Orange, Forbes and Cowra, says Lisa.

“This makes us the perfect home base to explore Central NSW.”

Parkes Shire Council, Parkes. Call 6862 6000, or visit visitparkes.com.au

COWRA 184kms*

Adventure of the Lachlan Valley cycle trail

RICH in culture, heritage and hidden gems, the Lachlan Valley delivers riders varied terrain and trail options, along with experiences that will long be cherished, says owner of Lachlan Valley Cycle Trail, Nicole Moroney.

“Escape the everyday and enjoy the adventure, fun, history, and beautiful sights that await, when you cycle the gorgeous Lachlan Valley,” she says.

“Mapped as recently as 2022, the Lachlan Valley Cycle Trail is designed to attract European style cycle touring, and with 1500 kilometres of fully interactive maps that unveil picturesque scenery, peaceful champagne gravel roads, and a generous peppering of country hospitality it is no wonder why cyclists are raving about their Lachlan Valley Trail experiences.”

Made up of two premier cycle trails, Nicole says the Lachlan Valley Cycle Trail criss-crosses the Lachlan Valley region linking major towns, quaint villages, and hidden gems in an immersive and wonderfully memorable way.

“The historical towns of Cowra, Forbes, Canowindra, Eugowra, Parkes, Trundle and Grenfell provide key rest, refreshment – great coffees – and exploration settings, in addition to renowned experiences and attractions, such as the murals at Eugowra, fossils at Canowindra and an overall abundance of history in what was once prime bushranger country.”

Lachlan Valley Cycle Trail, 7/3 Macquarie Street, Cowra. Call 0459 155845, or visit lachlanvalleycycletrail.com.au

GRENFELL 204kms*

‘Legendary’ festival celebrating Henry Lawson

THE legendary Grenfell Henry Lawson street parade and festival is back this June long weekend, says festival president Belinda Power.

“The 2023 festival is gearing up to be the best yet,” she says.

“The Henry Lawson festival is a major event for Grenfell, located in the central west of NSW.

“The festival has been running for 65 years and is seen as one of the oldest rural festivals still operating in NSW.”

Belinda says Lawson (1867–1922) was born in a tent on the Grenfell Goldfields and the festival was established to commemorate his contribution as a bush poet and writer.

“Thursday will include the official opening of the festival and the art exhibition, along with the announcement of the 2023 Festival King and Queen,” says Belinda.

“The line-up will also include a family fun night on Friday the 9th, featuring food and wine, family friendly rides and entertainment.

“The popular street parade will return to the Saturday of the festival, along with the addition of an authentic country street party.

“Catch the Grenfell Car Show on the Sunday of the festival before heading out to the Caragabal Camp Oven Cook Off and finish the weekend up with a visit to Iandra Castle.”

The Henry Lawson Festival, Grenfell, June 8-12. Call 0413 306973, or visit henrylawsonfestival.com.au

COOMA 128kms*

A much-loved gallery with history

THE Raglan Gallery and Cultural Centre has been operated as a not-for-profit gallery since the mid ‘80s, says public officer Merilyn Minell.

“But it’s been open as Cooma’s first inn, and then a bank, since 1854,” she says.

“We’re running our annual art competition in June, and before that we have a ‘Motoring On’ exhibition running from April 5 to May 14.”

Merilyn says the exhibition is run in conjunction with Land Rover’s 75th anniversary, and entrants are invited to enter up to two artworks, fitting the “Motoring On” theme in any medium.

Merilyn says the gallery has a heritage garden for visitors to explore.

“It’s of special interest because it’s been restored and maintained by volunteers,” she says.

“Of particular note are the bay tree and the Irish strawberry tree, both of which are more than 100 years old. The wisteria is also a beautiful feature, especially in spring if it escapes a Monaro frost.”

And, Merilyn says, the gallery embraces the community.

“The gallery is a much-loved part of Cooma’s fabric and people, visitors, love it when they come and visit,” she says.

“We embrace the community, we highlight and run exhibitions by local and outside artists.

“Raglan Gallery also holds art classes on Mondays each week, too.”

Raglan Gallery and Cultural Centre, 9-11 Lambie Street, Cooma. Call 6452 3377, or visit raglangallerycooma.com