A Guide to Mittagong: A Southern Highlands Gem
Mittagong - Southern Highlands
Updated - 23rd August 2024 by The Fitzroy Inn
Amidst the picturesque Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Mittagong offers a delightful blend of history, nature, and culinary delights. This charming town, just a short drive from Sydney, invites visitors to escape the bustling city and immerse themselves in a serene, idyllic setting. Let's embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems and captivating experiences that await in Mittagong.
What is the history of Mittagong?
Mittagong's story begins with the Aboriginal people of the area . The name "Mittagong" is said to come from an Aboriginal word meaning "little mountain". Their rich cultural heritage is still evident in the area, offering visitors a glimpse into Australia's ancient past. European settlement began in the 19th century, transforming Mittagong into a thriving agricultural and industrial centre. Today, the town's historical significance is reflected in its well-preserved landmarks and museums.
Learn about the History of the Fitzroy Inn
Fitzroy Inn - An original travellers inn
National Parks and Outdoor activities near Mittagong
Mittagong is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. The picturesque Lake Alexandra offers a serene escape for fishing, boating, or simply enjoying a picnic. For those seeking adventure, Mount Gibraltar Reserve provides challenging hiking trails with panoramic views of the Southern Highlands. For nature lovers, Nattai National Park offers hiking trails and stunning waterfalls.
Lake Alexandra
What is the best food in Mittagong?
Indulge your taste buds with Mittagong's culinary offerings. From farm-to-table restaurants showcasing local produce to award-winning wineries, the town offers a diverse range of dining experiences. Don't miss the opportunity to sample the region's renowned cool-climate wines, particularly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Where to eat in Mittagong on Trip Advisor
Historic places to visit in and around Mittagong
Explore the town's rich history by visiting its historical landmarks. The Fitzroy Iron Works, once the first ironworks in Australia, offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's industrial past. Stroll through Mittagong's charming streets and admire its well-preserved Victorian architecture.
Retford Park is a captivating heritage garden and Victorian Italianate homestead located in the heart of Bowral, New South Wales. Explore the elegant mansion, wander through the pristine gardens dotted with sculptures and artworks, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this historic site. https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/places/retford-park/
Harpers Mansion Nestled in the picturesque town of Berrima, Harper’s Mansion is a stunning colonial Georgian country house dating back to 1834. Surrounded by charming gardens and boasting one of Australia’s largest hedge mazes, this historic site offers visitors a delightful experience.
Explore the restored mansion and uncover the fascinating stories of the Harper family, who once called this place home. Wander through the two-acre gardens, filled with vibrant perennials, heritage roses, and camellias. And don’t miss the opportunity to challenge yourself in the extensive hedge maze, a perfect activity for children and adults alike. https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/places/harpers-mansion/
Explore history around Mittagong
Come and explore the Fitzroy Inn’s Self Guided Historical Walk
Mittagong and Bowral - Southern Highlands
Mittagong serves as an excellent base for exploring the Southern Highlands. Take a short drive to Bowral, a charming town known for its antique shops and the International Cricket Hall of Fame.
Embark on a journey through the life of the legendary Sir Donald Bradman with the Bradman Walk. This self-guided stroll takes you through the charming streets of Bowral, where the 'Boy from Bowral' grew up and honed his cricketing skills. Visit his childhood home, school, and other significant landmarks, gaining insights into the life of the greatest sportsman of all time. Accessible to all ages and abilities, the Bradman Walk is a must-do for cricket enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Learn more about the Bradman Walk
When is the best time to go to the Southern Highlands? Tulip Time?
The best time to visit Mittagong depends on your preferences. Spring offers blooming gardens, summer is ideal for outdoor activities, autumn showcases vibrant foliage, and winter provides a cozy atmosphere.
If you're staying in Mittagong and looking for a vibrant springtime experience, head just a short drive away to Bowral for the annual Tulip Time Festival at Corbett Gardens. This picturesque public garden, renowned for its beauty, transforms into a breathtaking sea of color during the festival.
Imagine strolling through a vibrant tapestry of over 75,000 tulips in a kaleidoscope of hues, complemented by 15,000 annuals. It's a feast for the senses that attracts thousands of visitors each year. The festival typically takes place at the end of September and spans over two days.
While entry to Corbett Gardens is usually free, a small entry fee applies during the Tulip Time Festival to support the event and the ongoing maintenance of this lovely public space. So, pack your camera and prepare to be enchanted by the splendor of spring at this nearby gem.
Learn more about the Tulip Time Event
Tulip Time in the Southern Highlands
Southern Highlands Events
Throughout the year, Mittagong hosts various events that add to the town's vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the Southern Highlands Food and Wine Festival or the Mittagong Blues Festival.
Is there shopping in and around Mittagong?
Explore the charming shops in Mittagong and discover unique local products. From handcrafted goods to artisanal food, there's something for everyone. Moss Vale nearby also boasts a variety of shops, including boutiques, antique stores, homewares, and specialty stores. You'll find a good mix of local and national brands, making it a great place to find unique items.
Bowral has a more extensive range of shops, especially if you're looking for high-end fashion, homewares, and antiques. The town's main street is lined with charming boutiques and specialty stores, offering a diverse shopping experience.
Ultimately, the best place to shop depends on your individual preferences. If you're looking for a more intimate and relaxed shopping experience, Moss Vale might be a better fit. If you prefer a wider variety of shops and a more bustling atmosphere, Bowral could be the ideal choice.
Things to do in the Southern Highlands
Enjoy a picnic at Lake Alexandra Recreation Area in Mittagong or visit the Bradman Museum in nearby Bowral. You can also explore Berrima a very historic town, with plenty of galleries and craft shops; it has lots of old buildings and the Jail. There are also some lovely walks along the river, which can bring you to The Surveyor General (Australia’s oldest inn!) for a nice beer. Berrima market (in the school grounds) is probably the best market around as it is a good size and has a good variety of local stuff.
Here are some additional details about Berrima's attractions:
Berrima Courthouse: This imposing building is a must-see for any visitor to Berrima. Built between 1836 and 1838, it was designed by the colonial architect Mortimer Lewis in a Roman style. The courthouse is now a museum and is open to the public for tours.
Berrima Gaol: This gaol was built in 1836 and is one of the oldest gaols in New South Wales. It is now a museum and offers tours that allow visitors to learn about the history of the gaol and its inmates.
Berrima River Walk: This is a beautiful walk that follows the Wingecarribee River. The walk is about 2 kilometers long and is a great way to see the natural beauty of the area.
Surveyor General Inn: Australia's oldest continually licensed inn, The Surveyor General Inn offers a variety of dining options, from a bistro to a beer garden. They also have live entertainment on weekends.
Southern Highlands Wineries and Breweries
Artemis Winery is a family-run winery in the Southern Highlands, known for being Pinot Noir pioneers in the region. They offer tastings, lunches, and even accommodation!
Joadja Winery holds the title of oldest winery in the Southern Highlands.
And for those who enjoy craft beers, Eden Brewery offers a variety of brews and a burger bar. They use high-quality ingredients and brew everything on-site.
Local Walks for Nature Lovers near Mittagong
For nature lovers, visit the Morton National Park and enjoy scenic hikes and waterfalls.
Morton National Park is a great place to go hiking, camping, and fishing. The park has a variety of trails, including the popular Kosciuszko Walk, is a popular 10km (6.2-mile) trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Mount Ainslie is a shorter but more challenging hike that offers panoramic views of the park. Big Bend Falls is a beautiful waterfall that's a popular swimming spot in the summer.
