If you live by the motto that a spoonful of sugar makes the medicine (and pretty much everything else!) go down, then this 24-hour itinerary designed to discover the best desserts in Bowral is your golden ticket to decadence in the Southern Highlands. Think paper-thin crepes, award-winning pies, creamy gelato, and a lolly shop that could make Willy Wonka jealous. Strap in for a day where dessert isn’t just a little something on the side, it’s the main meal!
Crepe Crusaders
Kick off your sugar adventure at Franquette Creperie, where the French-inspired menu delivers a tres bien ode to Paris. Nestled on Bong Bong Street, this contemporary creperie serves paper-thin crepes that are a delight whether you go savoury or sweet. (Although in our humble opinion, a combo of carbs and cocoa is the best way to start the day). Picture golden edges hugging rich chocolate, fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey that glistens like liquid gold. Pair it with a latte or, if you’re feeling particularly decadent, a glass of bubbly. Franquette even lets you BYO wine and Champagne. One bite, and you’ll know why the French say, c’est la vie!
Pies and pastries
Did you even Bowral if you didn’t pop into Gumnut Patisserie – the iconic slice of heaven on Bong Bong Street. Grab a classic meat pie for lunch, but because we’re keeping it #balanced, don’t skip the pastry counter. Almond croissants, cream-filled eclairs, and tangy fruit tarts are all practically begging to join the party. It’s a little slice of indulgence, proving that life’s too short not to have dessert first … or second, or third.
I scream, you scream, we all scream for gelato!
By mid-afternoon, it’s time to cool things down and scoop your way to happiness at Sweet Retreat Gelato, located in The Mill. This isn’t your average cone; we’re talking creamy, dreamy gelato that melts in your mouth with big Venice vibes. Classic flavours sit alongside inventive spins, meaning you could go chocolate, pistachio, or something whimsically unexpected like salted caramel pretzel. A swirl or two of gelato here and suddenly life feels a little sweeter, your stride a little lighter, and your Instagram feed a lot more decadent.
Desserts for the drive
Finally, as the day winds down, and you feel your energy levels drop, get your sugar fix with a stroll into Bowral’s Sweets & Treats, a wonderland of retro lollies and modern confections. Step inside, and it’s like entering a Willy Wonka dream. Think: shelves stacked with Australian and New Zealand classics, American candy, British favourites, and all sorts of chocolates, fudges, and marzipan. Whether you’re picking out something to nibble on immediately or grabbing a stash to take home, it’s the perfect spot to end your sugar-filled day on a high note.
