Gundaroo, NSW

The small historic village of Gundaroo is an absolute gem of a country town. Just over half an hour from Canberra, around 2h45 from Sydney, and bang in the middle of some great towns in the same region – this village is an ideal spot for a weekend in the country. 

In the very best way, Gundaroo is unpretentious and authentic. It’s a proper country town, with lovely people, lots to do, and all the amenities you could possibly want for a weekend out of the city. 

“Gundaroo is an absolute gem of a country town.”

—

You could happily nest in at The Barn at Nguurruu (more on this haven below) for the whole weekend – it has everything you could possibly need for a lovely, relaxing weekend. But if you’re in the mood for some great food and a bit of exploring – Gundaroo has you covered. 

You really can’t visit Gundaroo without experiencing Grazing. A superb restaurant serving fresh seasonal produce sourced from the region, with an extensive wine list showcasing the Canberra region’s finest. I really can’t say anything other than you must book yourself in for a long lunch, or cosy dinner, and enjoy every single mouthful. For a more relaxed meal, Cork Street Café serve amazing pizzas (also available for takeaway) and don’t the locals know it! Available Thursday through Sunday nights, this place is no secret in town so make sure you order in advance. Enjoy a drink while you wait for your pizza at the Gundaroo Colonial Inn – a classic Aussie country pub attracting every demographic I’ve ever seen in one building. We ran out of days so didn’t manage to eat here but every meal that came out looked fantastic – proper pub food at it’s best. 

It’s no secret that a Cellar Door is one of my favourite attractions, so I must mention two great ones at Gundaroo. Gundog Estate had a beautiful range of wines for tasting, and you can also enjoy a few seasonal dishes prepared by their neighbours – Grazing. And a little drive out of town is Tallagandra Hill– offering a delightful selection of great wines, each with their own unique story of the owners’ friends and family. Enjoy a cheese board and tasting at this lovely spot.

THE BARN AT NGUURRUU

The Barn at Nguurruu is a truly special experience. The Barn itself was originally a horse stable, meticulously converted into a luxury two bedroom, self-contained barn (in shape only – there is nothing simple about this place!) in the middle of a working cattle farm. Made from rammed earth quarried on site, The Barn feels spacious with vaulted ceilings, and is beautifully finished with every detail. Luxurious natural textures in everything, including Hale Mercantile bed linen and the Grampians Goods Co tartan blankets to cosy up with while the fire crackles. From the fresh eggs laid by their chickens, the local sourdough, and even marshmallows for roasting on the firepit – staying at The Barn feels like country hospitality at it’s finest. 

Michelle and Murray are the most superb hosts, and truly passionate about making your stay at Nguurruu an experience. Their love for the land and regenerative farming is clear – and definitely worth a wander around the property with Murray to learn more. Not just for the fresh air and beautiful landscape, but to see the incredible work they’re doing to restore the land and ensure it’s in pristine shape for generations to come. This is a farm stay on a whole other level - an incredible experience I can’t recommend enough.

Collector, nsw

Not technically Gundaroo at all, but it’s close enough that I feel I must give a big shoutout to the divine village of Collector. Only 30 minutes north of Gundaroo, Collector has two massive drawcards that are well worth the drive. Some Café is a must-visit for great coffee and amazing food – a perfect pit stop to rest and revive. And right next door is the cellar door for one of my very favourite wineries ever – Collector Wines. As close to perfection as any winery could get, do yourself a favour and enjoy a tasting – I defy anyone to visit without picking up a few bottles!

Highlights

Stay

The Barn at Nguurruu

Eat

Grazing Restaurant, Cork Street Café, Gundaroo Colonial Inn

Drink

Gundog Estate, Tallagandra Hill, Collector Wines (Collector)

Coffee

Cork Street Café, Some Café (Collector)

Walk

Nguurruu Farm tour