Scrumpers Kitchen dishes up local, ethical and sustainable artisanal foods. Photo: Hayley Nicholls.
As Canberrans prepare for our pilgrimage to the South Coast this Easter, we all know the drill: power through the drive with a quick toilet break halfway if absolutely necessary. But what if we shook things up a little and bucked tradition?
Let’s stop at Bungendore.
I know what you’re thinking. It’s not the way of our people. As Canberrans, it’s our custom to spend the first hour of driving time burning through our snacks, activities and patience before we ‘stop revive survive’ at Braidwood – and only if someone really needs a wee.
We spend the second half of the trip fidgeting and fending off the escalating whinges of small children before arriving at our holiday destination exhausted and hating each other.
It is our way.
But in our haste to ‘make good time’ en route to our break, we’re missing an opportunity to kick-start the holiday vibe by turning a simple comfort stop into a memorable mini-adventure – and it’s hidden in plain sight.
About 30 minutes’ drive from Canberra, the monotony of Kings Highway gives way to the wholesome hustle bustle of Malbon Street and the quaint village of Bungendore, offering the perfect place for kids to ‘get their sillies out’ – and for adults to get their caffeine in!
A newly built, adventure-style playground – designed by the community and funded by the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund – beside public toilets and Mick Sherd Oval is an ideal spot to pull over and burn some energy before settling down for the bulk of your journey.
Of course, most parents know there’s a direct correlation between how much energy your kids have and how little you have. While you contemplate that cruel irony, grab yourself a quality coffee and gourmet toastie at Woodworks Cafe or The Gathering, or indulge in a pie or sausage roll at Gunna Doo Bakery or Nerson’s Pie Place.
If time is on your side, Bungendore’s grid-like layout makes it ideal for rambling aimlessly. Take a wander and you are guaranteed to come across a historic church, hidden op shop, even a surprising farm animal in someone’s backyard.
Browse boutique shops in and around the Village Square – such as B’town Kids, Bungendore Leather and Geektopia – or simply stumble across one of the fine art galleries dotted around this unique country town.
For the foodies, Bungendore offers a gourmet selection of local, ethical and sustainable artisanal foods. Scrumpers Kitchen provides a produce-driven menu that changes with the seasons, ensuring each visit is unique.
Another pursuit Bungendore does exceptionally well is antiquing. Get lost in Village Antiques – located right next to the IGA on Kings Highway – and a veritable rabbit warren of vintage treasures, homewares, collectables and quirky garden art.
The Malbon Collective – also located directly en route – is a unique retail hive of local artisans showcasing antiques, homewares, local produce, a museum gallery and charming garden emporium. Plus, there’s a coffee van and an outdoor firepit, making it a divine place to unwind, warm up and mingle with the locals. Stay long enough and you’re bound to hear a good yarn!
After your journey of discovery around Bungendore, it’s time to kick back and reflect on your mini-adventure before hitting the highway. For a cold beer and hearty pub meal, sink into the giant leather armchairs at The Lake George Hotel or soak in the laid-back atmosphere of the Royal Hotel.
Of course, if you’re just passing through, Bungendore IGA is en route and ideal for picking up those much-needed travel snacks.
But what’s the rush? There’s so much more to be seen within a short wander around the wide open streets and character-filled laneways of Bungendore.
Original Article published by Hayley Nicholls on Region Canberra.
