Holiday houses in Boorowa

Boorowa is a picturesque country town in the Hilltops region of New South Wales, around 3.5 hours southwest of Sydney and less than two hours from Canberra in the neighbouring Australian Capital Territory. The town enjoys a rich Irish heritage, which is still very much evident today and is famous for producing some of the finest merino wool in the world — a fact that is celebrated at Boorowa Irish Woolfest every October. The main street is filled with historic buildings housing antique shops, cafes serving Devonshire tea and scones, and country kitchens baking homemade cakes and treats.

Boorowa is a great base for exploring the nearby orchards of Young, the cherry capital of Australia. There are many verdant orchard farms nearby to visit, where you can pick your own fruits between October and January. The town is also part of the popular Hilltops wine region, which boasts award-winning vineyards producing quality cool-climate wines, including citrusy Chardonnays and Cabernets with deep berry notes. The area also attracts foodies, who come to buy olive oils from the noted local olive groves, as well as locally made honey and mustards.

The spring and autumn months in Boorowa are when the days are filled with sunshine and the nights are mild. In October, the town’s biggest event, Boorowa Irish Woolfest, celebrates the region’s wool-producing heritage with a street parade, Irish singers and dancers, pipe bands, and a produce market. October to January is also fruit-picking season at the many orchards in the area, where you can pick your own cherries and other soft fruits. In December, the Cherry Festival takes place in nearby Young with live music, a parade, and plenty of tasting opportunities. Summer is characterized by hot sunny days and warm nights, so pack plenty of sunscreen and a hat whenever you head out of your accommodation in Boorowa. Boorowa Swimming Pool in the heart of town is a popular place to keep cool between November and March.

The Shamrock Trails

The best way to discover historic Boorowa is to pick up a copy of the Shamrock Trails map from the town’s Visitor Centre and follow the paint shamrocks around town. There are 42 places of interest to visit on three heritage walks, including 20th-century buildings like the stained-glass spectacle of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, the courthouse, and the lovingly restored Boorowa Historical Museum.

Lambing Flat Chinese Tribute Garden

Take a 30-minute drive to the town of Young and explore Lambing Flat Chinese Tribute Garden at Chinaman Creek Dam Reserve. The garden was built in 1992 to recognise the contributions of the Chinese community in the area, featuring marble lion sculptures, viewing platforms, and a tranquil spot called the Pool of Tranquillity.

The Boorowa Historical Museum

The Boorowa Historical Museum is in a heritage-listed building in the centre of town. It is the last pise building in Boorowa, which has been lovingly restored and hosts travelling exhibitions. There is also a permanent display, which offers insight into the importance of the town’s wool industry. Opening hours are limited as the museum is staffed by local volunteers who are passionate about maintaining the district's history.