BATHURST has been named one of Australia’s best-value holiday destinations for 2015.
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And the survey by TripAdvisor website Trivago also ranks Bathurst as the best-value inland city in NSW for tourists.
According to Trivago, the list is formulated by combining the annual average overnight price of a standard room with a destination’s overall hotel reputation, from over 120 million traveller reviews.
Bathurst ranked number 14 overall in Australia, sandwiched between Batemans Bay on the south coast at 15, and Western Australia’s Albany at 13.
Bathurst Visitor Information Centre tourism manager Felicity Baines welcomed the news, and said the wide range of accommodation available in Bathurst gave the city an advantage over other regional centres.
Family trips can always be expensive when you need to account for three or more people, which is where Bathurst continues to stand out and shine.
“One of the main factors is that we have always been a family destination,” Ms Baines said.
“Affordability is relevant to the people who are looking, and we do cater for everyone.”
Ms Baines added that many of the affordable motels, inns and hotels to stay at in Bathurst are quite close to the local attractions and the CBD, making transportation costs quite minimal.
It also helps that Bathurst is blessed with quality accommodation ranging in price to suit any budget.
One of the most affordable places in town is the Quality Hotel on Stewart Street, which boasts newly renovated rooms and has had a recent restaurant overhaul which can compete with the best.
Head chef of the hotel’s Celsius Bar and Grill, Eldon Brackenreg, said the changes have increased the quality, but the prices have stayed at the same affordable price, with the exception of race weeks.
“During all other seasons times the prices are pretty good,” he said.
Mr Brackenreg, who has lived in Bathurst his entire life, believes Bathurst is ranked so highly on Trivago’s list as it is always a hum of activity, from motor racing meets to local events and icons.
“There is always something going on,” he said.
Ms Baines seconded those comments, explaining many local attractions, from the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum to Chifley House, are low cost or even free.
“Half of the beautiful things you do in Bathurst don’t cost money,” she said.
This includes visiting popular areas like Mount Panorama, Chifley Dam and Machattie Park.
