Bundanoon

Bundanoon is a charming village in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, known for its dramatic sandstone gullies, lush bushland, and tranquil atmosphere. It's a favorite escape for Sydneysiders seeking fresh air and outdoor adventures, with a strong local culture centered around conservation and community. The village itself is walkable, with a handful of cafes and antique shops, but the real draw is the surrounding Morton National Park, where you can explore waterfalls, lookouts, and the famous glow worm tunnels.

Highlights & What to See

• Glow Worm Tunnel: An old railway tunnel now home to thousands of glow worms – a magical sight on a guided night tour (bring a torch!).
• Fairy Bower Falls: A short walk from the village leads to this pretty waterfall and swimming hole, perfect for a refreshing dip.
• Bundanoon Creek Trail: A family-friendly walk along the creek with several swimming spots and picnic areas.
• Morton National Park Lookouts: Don't miss the panoramic views from the Pinnacle Lookout and the Bald Hill Lookout, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• Bundanoon Earth Hour & Community Markets: The village is famously the first Australian town to ban bottled water, reflecting its eco-conscious spirit; check the calendar for the monthly markets and the annual Earth Hour celebration.

Suggested Time to Spend

A weekend is ideal for Bundanoon, allowing you to settle in and explore the national park at a relaxed pace. Arrive Friday night, spend Saturday hiking to the glow worm tunnel and Fairy Bower Falls, and Sunday morning browsing the village before heading home. If you're short on time, a day trip can cover the main walks and a cafe lunch, but you'll want to linger longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Morton National Park: The park is vast and includes other highlights like the Fitzroy Falls and the Wild Dog Mountain area – excellent for extended hikes.
• Bowral: The largest town in the Southern Highlands, known for its gardens, antique shopping, and the Bradman Museum (cricket lovers).
• Berrima: A beautifully preserved historic village with sandstone buildings, galleries, and the famous Berrima Vault Cafe.
• Fitzroy Falls: Just a short drive from Bundanoon, this spectacular waterfall plunges into a deep valley, with well-maintained boardwalks and lookouts.
• Kangaroo Valley: A scenic drive through rolling hills leads to this picturesque valley with the historic Hampden Bridge, canoeing, and the Kangaroo Valley Pioneer Museum.

Please check official sources for current details.