Unearth Cowra NSW

Cowra NSW

Cowra is peaceful by choice and beautiful by nature.

Discover Cowra and discover a wealth of experiences – the great outdoors, vineyards, adventure and hot air ballooning.

Cowra has a number of true country experiences from relaxing along the extensive waterways to exploring the tranquil Japanese Garden. Take a trip down memory lane and experience Cowra’s fascinating history, from the days of steam trains to the largest Prisoner Of War Breakout in Australian and modern military history.

Food and wine buffs can tour Cowra’s boutique vineyards to sample the superb local food and wine available. Where better to enjoy fine wine and delicious food than right in the heart of where it is actually produced.

Cowra has a vibrant and expanding retail and commercial centre. It boasts the services you would expect to find in a larger town while still retaining that wonderful feeling of country hospitality.

Visit Cowra and discover what it means to escape…

Ask a Local

We enjoyed a fantastic time in the Cowra region. We had originally planned on staying for one night but once we discovered the rich history, heritage and beautiful landscapes of the region, decided to stay a further two nights. Three days in Cowra was just not enough time to explore all there is to see and do in the region – we’ll be back!

Ken and Jan

Wollongong

48 Hours in Cowra

DAY 1 – IMMERSE YOURSELF IN COWRA’S HISTORY

Start at the Cowra Visitor Information Centre and watch the powerful hologram presentation about the Cowra Prisoner of War Breakout in 1944.

Tour the stunning Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre and enjoy a coffee or lunch at the Cafe.

Stroll or cycle along the Cowra Peace Precinct via the Garrison Walk. Interpretive signage will bring the history of the site to life amongst the beautiful scenic views.

Visit the Prisoner of War Campsite and replica guard tower. Stop at the viewing platform and immerse yourself in the history of the site before heading down the pebbled walk to the five-panel commemorative sculpture.

Pay your respects at the Australian, Indonesian and Japanese War Cemeteries.

Ring the Australian Chapter of the World Peace Bell and listen to the audio presentation.

DAY 2 – EXPLORE CANOWINDRA

Wander through the picturesque Cowra Rose Garden at the Cowra Visitor Information Centre.

Take a stroll down the Lachlan River Walk via the Erambie Shared Path and view the impressive Indigneous Art Murals.

Discover a variety of exhibitions on display the Cowra Regional Art Gallery.

Enjoy the stunning panoramic views atop Bellevue Hill Lookout and explore the walking tracks through the Bellevue Hill Reserve just behind the Nature Based Adventure Playground.

Visit Europa Park and learn about the Cowra Migrant and Military Training Camps.

Immerse yourself in Cowra’s Railway history at the Lachal Valley Heritage Railway Centre.

COMPULSORY

The Hologram presentation of the Cowra Breakout story at the Visitor Information Centre.

CURIOSITY

Nestled in the Lachlan Valley, Cowra is set in the heart of Wiradjuri Country. Our Wiradjuri community continues its strong connection to the land. The Lachlan River (Galari Bila) has significant meaning to the Wiradjuri people through stories, songs and art. The Gugaa, or goanna, is the Wiradjuri Totem.

EVENTS

  • Cowra Cup – January
  • Cowra Festival of International Understanding – March
  • Canowindra International Balloon Challenge – April
  • Koyo Matsuri – May
  • Wyangala Bonfire and Fireworks Spectacular – May
  • Cowra Wine Show – July
  • Cowra Winter Wanderlust – July
  • Cowra Breakout Anniversary – August
  • Sakura Matsuri – September
  • Woodstock Memorial Show – September
  • Cowra Canola Season – September
  • Cowra Spring Show – October
  • Cowra Christmas Festival – December
  • Cowra New Year’s Eve Beach Party – December

SEE & DO AROUND COWRA NSW

  • Unearth Cowra War History at the POW site, Japanese War Cemetery, POW Hologram at VIC, and Australia’s World Peace Bell
  • Japanese Garden & Cultural Centre
  • Fishing, Watersports, Camping at Wyangala Waters
  • Lachlan Valley Railway
  • Explore Cowra’s Wine Region with a range of family owned and operated vineyards and wineries
  • Take a drive to Canowindra and enjoy heritage, boutique shopping, fine wine and food.

COWRA FOOD GUIDE

  • The Quarry Restaurant and Cellar Door
  • Masala Library by Sid
  • Japanese Garden Cafe
  • Cowra Services Club
  • Cowra Bowling Club
  • Wyangala Country Club Bistro
  • Cowra Golf Club
  • CJ’s at 101 Brisbane
  • Imperial Hotel Cowra
  • Railway Hotel Cowra
  • Lachlan Valley Hotel
  • Cowra Hotel
  • Australian Hotel
  • Lachlan Hotel
  • Hotel Koorawatha
  • Woodstock Hotel
  • Gooloogong Hotel
  • The Ironbark Smoked Barbecue at the Mill
  • Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant
  • At Thai 44
  • Kendal Street Cafe
  • Cafe Ruze
  • The Hideout Cafe
  • Breakout Brasserie
  • Rose Garden Cafe
  • Gingerbird Espresso
  • Perennialle Plants (Nursey and Emporium) – Canowindra

    COWRA’S BEST BITE

    The Cowra rack of lamb with minted pea pistou at The Quarry Restaurant as featured in Central West Lifestyle Magazine.

    COWRA WINE REGION

    • Rosnay Organic and Cellar Door (02 6344 3215)
    • Wallington Wines (02 6344 7153)
    • Windowrie Wines (02 6344 3264)
    • Kalari Wines (0414 630 390)
    • Antonio’s Wines (0417893278)
    • Cowra Visitor Information Centre (02 6342 4333)

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