Tree Change: 6 Best Neighbourhoods for a Tree Change Near Canberra

You’ll feel as though you are a world away from these beautiful tree change destinations on Canberra’s doorstep.

Bungendore

The historic town of Bungendore lies in the Queanbeyan region of New South Wales and promises a slower pace of life, just 30 minutes east of Canberra. In recent years, it has garnered a reputation for its gourmet food, with cooking classes and cellar doors, along with destination dining including French eatery Le Très Bon. There are Saturday farmers’ markets, where you can sample the region’s locally grown produce, and restaurants such as Lark Hill Winery to enjoy a languid lunch among the vines. Its historic streets are lined with colonial buildings and country-style cottages, now housing galleries, homeware stores and antiques. Check out the Bungendore Wood Works Gallery, which showcases the works of many of Australia’s top woodworkers.

Uriarra Village

Striking the perfect balance between city convenience and rural charm, Uriarra Village sits right on Canberra’s doorstep and is blessed with abundant natural beauty. As the only “community title” village in Australia, residents relish its strong community spirit and benefit from shared facilities including a swimming pool, tennis courts, community centre and playground. Life here is one of pure tranquillity, with gorgeous countryside providing endless opportunities for horse riding, mountain biking and walking. Just 25 minutes’ drive from Westfield Woden and Cooleman Court, properties here are tightly held with families looking for greater space while remaining close to shops, restaurants and good education.

Murrumbateman

Only 30 minutes from Canberra, Murrumbateman has become a foodie hotspot thanks to a wealth of cellar doors and quality restaurants. Dubbed the capital of the Canberra District wine region, it’s home to some 20 boutique wineries, specialising in cool climate varietals, and stylish vineyard eateries such as Poachers Pantry and Olleyville. Punctuated by rolling hills and farmland, families can enjoy animal encounters at Babylon Farm and Clearview Alpacas, and follow horse riding trails through scenic bushland. Sweet tooths can get their fix at Robyn Rowe Chocolates, while Wins Creek Meadery specialise in all things honey. Many of Murrumbateman’s homestead properties and large homes capture stunning views across the Yass Valley.

Braidwood

Tucked between Canberra and the coast, the town of Braidwood offers a diverse community with a burgeoning food scene that includes trendy cafes, artisan bakeries and providores. Steeped in gold rush history, today its village is lined with artists’ studios, handmade fashion stores and antiques earning its reputation as a creative hotspot. Community comes together at the bimonthly Braidwood Farmers’ Market, where locals get their fill of the region’s excellent produce. Bounded by breathtaking natural scenery, residents have Mongo National Park at their fingertips, where the historic Corn Trail follows high mountain ridges to deep rainforest and meandering rivers along walking and horse-riding tracks.

Gundaroo

Beautiful Federation homes and manicured gardens pepper the heritage-listed village of Gundaroo. The pretty riverside town has a rich history dating back to the 19^th century and offers a sublime rural lifestyle just a 30-minute commute from Canberra. The town is home to one of the region’s most lauded restaurants, Grazing at Gundaroo, along with heart-warming country fare at Cork Street Café. Families are moving in to have the best of both world – country charm, impressively sized homes and close proximity to the city. There’s a local primary school, while a bus service ferries children to Canberra’s major schools.

Goulburn

Goulburn has seen demand surge over the past year, with people making the move from both Sydney and Canberra looking for greater work life balance. This city combines a beautiful natural setting with modern conveniences and excellent community amenities such as sports clubs and playgrounds. Discover unspoilt wilderness in Bungonia National Park, picnic at pretty Belmore Park and wander down Auburn Street for its vintage and specialty stores. A rich farming legacy lends itself to delicious gourmet produce with acclaimed restaurants, historic pubs and bustling cafes. Goulburn is also known for its events calendar, spanning everything from music festivals to markets and motorsports. Properties here are a mix of character homes and new developments, with easy access to schools and public transport.