Bundanoon

Bundanoon is on the southern edge of settlement of the Highlands, on the edge of the deep valleys and escarpments of the Great Dividing Range. Today it is the 4th largest (residential) area in the Highlands, and attracts vast numbers of tourists again (up to 20,000 in one day for Brigadoon alone). There is a well established artists' colony among its residents, and many of the old guest houses have been restored and opened for today's visitors. Behind its sleepy old-world charm, Bundanoon is a vibrant community. Visitors can still enjoy the grand beauty of the National Park, and relax and enjoy the mountain air. There are plenty of things to see and do for adults and kids alike. The main street is very busy during Market Day (first Sunday of every month), and on weekends and holidays. There are often steam train excursions from Sydney throughout the year, and the town is a favourite destination for car and other clubs for weekend stays. Brigadoon, the Bundanoon Highland Gathering (held every April) is one of the biggest of its kind in the world, and not to be missed. The most difficult decision for the visitor is whether 'to do' Bundanoon in a day trip, or to indulge oneself and stay for a few days - or a week - or more. Although it attracts so many visitors, Bundanoon is not 'over-touristified'; it retains the quiet, sleepy, old-world atmosphere of yesteryear, and is the perfect place to wind down from the hectic pace of modern life (then again, it always was!). Lots of good accommodation houses - guest houses and self-contained cottages, lovingly restored to their old charm and upgraded with the most modern of amenities - where you are positively pampered by your hosts; two health resorts; two motels and an historic hotel; youth hostel; camping area available. Some good craft shops; several excellent art galleries; cafes and tea rooms; good restaurants; pub and licensed Bowling Club; theatre restaurant; little museum (open weekends); nurseries; a number of picnic areas. Park near shops, then stroll around - across railway, left to overhead bridge, back through town, up to art gallery, and back again (see some attractive old buildings). Energetic? Hire a bike, or go walking through Morton National Park. Lots of famous lookouts ('Echo Point', 'Fairy Bower'), walking trails, picnic spots, native flowers, flocks of native birds; and camping area. Even walking or biking around town is relaxing and enjoyable. At night walk down to 'Glow Worm Glen'. Stroll to the edge of town at dawn or dusk and see kangaroos and wallabies. Play Golf at Sylvan Glen, Penrose (just 10 minutes away).