Your Guide to the Vibrant Canola Trail
The Stay in The Bush team has just been on a little adventure to check out the Canola Trail in the Riverina Region of NSW and we thought we'd bring you some of the highlights! If you have been looking for an excuse for a Riverina Road trip, this one offers maximum joy with minimal effort. Beautiful villages, all offering unique experiences and SUPERB accommodation within an hour from one another.
Stay in Temora
Sleeps 4, 2 bedrooms - 1 hour from Wagga, 2.5 hours from Canberra
Harberton House
Harberton House is a home away from home that you'll find hard to leave. The owner, Craig Sinclair, has an eye for design and has thought of all the little touches. From the soft sheets and inviting armchairs to the extra nooks for luggage and laptops and the deliciously generous ensuites. This stay strikes the perfect balance of luxury and comfort. A little jar of delicious tomato relish - made by his Mum - left for us on the bench made a lovely touch.
What you can look forward to...
Good coffee (@espressohousetemora), pub grub (@therailwayhotel_temora) and shopping are just a short stroll from Harberton House. Enjoy an early morning walk around Centenary Lake or try your luck at the flight simulator at the Aviation Museum.
Relax in the sun-drenched courtyard with a cuppa, (if you can manage to get out of bed) before setting off to explore. @diamondsanddust_temora and @kamarleyandmehomewaresandgifts are definitely worth a stop. Oh, and expect friendly locals who are proud of their community.
Stay in Coolamon
Sleeps 2, 1 Bedroom - 30 mins from Wagga, 3 hours from Canberra
The Ark
The Ark is special. It is difficult to describe the feeling of peace and tranquility that this restored, deconsecrated church in Coolamon conjures.
It has been thoughtfully curated so that every little touch is in perfect harmony with the unique space and history of this place. The bedding, the complimentary platter of goodies on arrival, the tiny jars of delicious homemade preserves, the fresh flowers all add to the feeling that you have arrived to precious place. It is difficult to know where to start and stop with The Ark so you'll just have to take our word for it...or visit yourself, obviously.
What you can look forward to...
After a day of wandering Coolamon and a drive to nearby Junee, find time to relax in the clawfoot bath, sit and enjoy the ever-changing light through the stained glass windows. Or read in one of the thoughtfully placed possies complete with comfy chair and lamp.
The Ark is just a short walk from Coolamon's main street. Find an outfit at @shoprubysboutique, browse the nearby galleries or pick up some delicious cheese @coolamoncheeseco and gourmet goodies at Gigi The Gourmet Grocer then sneak back to your oasis at The Ark. The newly renovated @coolamonhotel is a must stop for dinner and cocktails. You can't leave town without a coffee at The Station Collective.