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…
"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
Begin your Cowra experience at the Cowra Visitor Information Centre, where you can watch the powerful hologram presentation telling the story of the 1944 Cowra Prisoner of War Breakout. From here, take a stroll through the stunning Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre, before stopping for a coffee or lunch at the café.
Continue your journey through Cowra’s history with a walk or cycle along the Cowra Peace Precinct via the Garrison Walk. As you make your way through the precinct, interpretive signage brings the stories of the site to life while you take in the surrounding scenery. From the Garrison Walk, head to the Prisoner of War Campsite and replica guard tower. Take a moment at the viewing platform to reflect on the history of the site, then follow the pebbled pathway down to the five-panel commemorative sculpture. Continue to the Australian, Indonesian and Japanese War Cemeteries, where you can pay your respects and reflect on the lives connected to Cowra’s wartime history. Finish the day at the Australian Chapter of the World Peace Bell. Ring the bell and listen to the accompanying audio presentation — a fitting conclusion to a day exploring Cowra’s history, remembrance and message of peace.
DAY 2
Start your second day with a relaxed wander through the picturesque Cowra Rose Garden at the Visitor Information Centre. From there, follow the Lachlan River Walk via the Erambie Shared Path, taking in the impressive Indigenous art murals along the way. Continue into town to explore the exhibitions at the Cowra Regional Art Gallery, showcasing the region’s creative and cultural stories. For a change of scenery, make your way to Bellevue Hill Lookout and take in the panoramic views across Cowra. Afterwards, explore the walking tracks through Bellevue Hill Reserve, located behind the Nature Based Adventure Playground. Continue your journey through Cowra’s more recent history at Europa Park, where you can learn about the Cowra Migrant and Military Training Camps and the people who passed through them. Finish your two-day visit by stepping back into Cowra’s railway history at the Lachlan Valley Heritage Railway Centre, discovering the stories and significance of rail to the region.
