The name Bungendore is believed to have been derived from the name given to the area by the indigenous

Early Painting of Lake George: 1824       [© Joseph Lycett & John Woolley]

inhabitants - Bungandow. After as much as 120,000 years of occupation by Ngarigu people and their antecedents, "white man" first appeared in the area around 1820. The European settlement of Bungendore was officially recognised as a town in 1837. In the ensuing years, the area has grown on the back of farming - predominantly sheep and cattle - and the decision to route the rail line through Bungendore.

Photograph at Gearys Gap: 1884      [© Mrs Caspers & John Woolley]

In the early part of the 20th century Bungendore escaped assured and rapid expansion when it was rejected as the options narrowed in the search for the newly-formed nation's capital.
 
Thankfully, Bungendore still retains a semblance of colonial rural existence - presenting in part as a quaint and historic village. At the same time, the establishment rural families have been joined over the decades by many more immigrants to the area - expanding the predominantly Irish Catholic agricultural citizenry to include everything from artists to public servants. This village atmosphere makes Bungendore a fantastic place to visit, and provides many interesting historical sights and varied shops and culinary experiences.

There are many things to interest you in the lovely village of Bungendore and the surrounding areas.Wander the streets, check out the various historic buildings, have a meal or just a relaxing coffee. There are various art galleries, antique and 2nd hand shops, gift shops, bookshops, designer jewellery and the world-renowned Bungendore Woodworks Gallery – famous for its selection of handcrafted furniture, sculpture and design giftware. When it comes to meal time, you can choose anything from the humble hamburger through to genuine French cuisine – options to cater for any mood or occasion.
 
The Bungendore area is also quickly becoming renowned as a world-class wine region. The cool-climate wineries of Bungendore offer many varieties – some award winning, some even chosen by such iconic institutions as Qantas for their wine lists. Book a wine tour in a chauffeur-driven vintage car from Claddagh Lodge and try out the wines at the cellar door or spend a little more time sampling wines at a cafe.
 
Bungendore hosts many festivals throughout the year ranging from the largest one-day agricultural show in NSW (Jan), Country Muster (Jan), The Weereewa art festival (March/April every 2nd year: 2010), Quilt show (Nov) and many more in the area [more info]
 
If you like walking or riding, why not try out the local Rail Trails or just wander around the village and soak up the atmosphere?
 
For more information about attractions and upcoming events, check out Bungendore.info and Bungendore.com.au.