A tiny town with a population of just under 5,000 people has been named a surprise winner at the 2025 Top Tourism Town Awards.

But many people have never even heard of it.

Located in the picturesque south-west NSW valley - just a 40-minute drive outside of Canberra - is the small town of Bungendore.

Bungendore was crowned the unexpected Gold winner in the Small Tourism Town category at the awards ceremony in September.

The boutique NSW town beat out other well-known travel destination; silver went to the Tasmanian town of Deloraine in the Meander Valley and bronze was awarded to the world-famous Airlie Beach in Queensland's Whitsundays.

The awards organisation offered an explanation for why Bungendore stood out as this year's champion, praising the town's 'heritage meets handmade' feel.

'Every corner hums with creative energy,' they continued.

'This character-filled village blends country charm with bold artisan flair. It's a place where you can sip cool-climate wine, fossick for vintage finds, feast on paddock-to-plate fare, and meet the makers behind the magic.'

Bungendore, located in the picturesque south-west NSW valley, has taken out the gold prize at the 2025 Australia's Top Tourism Town Awards in the Small Tourism Town category

Bungendore punches above its weight in food and wine with restaurants like The George Bar and Dining (pictured)

It is located in the picturesque south-west NSW valley - a 40-minute drive outside of Canberra 

The historic village dates back to 1837 and boasts lovingly preserved colonial buildings, cobbled laneways, buzzing farmer's markets, eclectic galleries and cool climate wineries.

The rich small town is set against a magnificent backdrop of rolling hills.

'Whether you come for the flavours, the finds or the feels - Bungendore will steal your heart, then feed it too,' the awards team concluded.

Queanbeyan-Palerang Council Deputy Mayor Esma Livermore said the latest accolade was 'a remarkable achievement for Bungendore and our region'.

'The heart and soul of Bungendore are its people, and this national award is a well-deserved recognition of their dedication to creating memorable experiences for every visitor,' the Deputy Mayor told Delicious.

'We are incredibly proud to showcase the rich stories, artistry, and incredible hospitality that Bungendore is famous for on a national stage.'

For those planning a road trip to the town, a sample three-day itinerary is also offered on the website.

While in Bungendore, stop by for brunch at The Gathering Café (left) or visit the cellar door at Sapling Yard (right)

Bungendore is a hub for creative makers, home to artists, artisans and boutique businesses 

The itinerary describes it as the perfect place for 'weekend wanderers escaping the city for fresh air and country calm'.

Getting there is an easy 40-minute drive north of Canberra or three-hour drive south-west of Sydney.

For a small town, Bungendore punches above its weight in food and wine.

The town boasts a number of top restaurants including The George Bar and Dining and Scrumpers Kitchen.

For more casual fare, there's The Gathering Café for brunch or a classic country pub food at The Royal Hotel.

Wine tasting is on offer at local cellar doors Sapling Yard and Lark Hill Winery. The town is also right around the corner from Canberra's District Wine region.

If you're there on a Saturday morning, check out the Southern NSW Harvest Farmers Markets to pick up locally made delights like truffle oil, warm sourdough, fresh herbs and honey sticks.

Art lovers can go gallery hopping to Bungendore Fine Art, Suki & Hugh Gallery, and X Gallery. 

With its preserved historic buildings and country charm atmosphere, Bungendore was recognsied at the recent tourism awards as the perfect spot for 'weekend wanderers escaping the city'

Queanbeyan-Palerang Council Deputy Mayor Esma Livermore said the latest accolade was 'a remarkable achievement for Bungendore and our region' 

There's beautiful craftmanship to behold at Bungendore Leather and it's also worth popping into The Malbon, a local creative precinct home to antiques, florals, homewares and artisan makers.

Truffle lovers visiting in July or August can also stop by the seasonal Blue Frog Truffle Hunt where they can even follow clever dogs as they trek out and dig up the prized ingredient.

If you're staying overnight, check in at The Carrington Inn, which is located in one of several preserved historic buildings in town.