Things to do in our Southern Highlands Towns
The Southern Highlands of New South Wales is a captivating blend of historic charm, scenic landscapes, and unique experiences. Perfect for a weekend escape or day trip, this region boasts vibrant towns, world-class wineries, historic sites, and some of the best boutique shopping and dining experiences NSW has to offer.
Read on to explore the highlights of each Southern Highlands town and discover two fantastic day-out itineraries.
Bowral
Bowral, the largest and most popular town in the Southern Highlands, is a hub for culture, food, and outdoor activities.
Highlights:
Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame: A must-visit for sports enthusiasts, offering insights into the legendary cricketer Don Bradman and the world of cricket.
Bowral Lookout: Perfect for panoramic views of the Southern Highlands landscape.
Corbett Gardens & Tulip Time Festival: If you visit in spring, the Tulip Time Festival fills Corbett Gardens with thousands of blooming tulips.
Moss Vale
Known for its rich history, agricultural roots, and beautiful parks, Moss Vale offers a relaxed yet vibrant experience.
Highlights:
Morton National Park: An ideal spot for nature lovers, with walking tracks through pristine bushland.
Southern Highlands Winery: A popular vineyard with tastings and a menu that highlights local produce.
Leighton Gardens: This peaceful park is great for a leisurely picnic and is particularly lovely in spring.
Mittagong
Mittagong is an antique lover’s dream and also serves as the gateway to the Southern Highlands.
Highlights:
Lake Alexandra: Ideal for a family picnic, gentle stroll, or a bit of bird-watching.
Mount Gibraltar Reserve: Explore the scenic lookouts and discover remnants of the area’s mining history.
Mittagong Antiques Centre: A treasure trove of collectibles, perfect for finding unique keepsakes.
Fitzroy Inn Self Guided Historical Tour: Find out more here.
Berrima
Berrima is the most historic village in the Southern Highlands, with a quaint, old-world atmosphere and significant colonial sites.
Highlights:
Berrima Gaol and Courthouse Museum: These heritage sites offer a glimpse into Australia’s colonial past.
Local Markets: Check out the artisan markets, which showcase Southern Highlands-made crafts and produce.
Shopping: Wander the boutique shops offering unique homewares, vintage finds, and local artworks.
Exeter
With its rural charm, beautiful landscapes, and close-knit community, Exeter is a perfect spot for a relaxing retreat.
Highlights:
Exeter General Store: A cozy, popular café serving delicious meals and great coffee.
Hiking and Nature Trails: Discover scenic trails that wind through the countryside and offer beautiful views.
Historic Anglican Church: A lovely example of the town’s heritage, dating back to the early 20th century.
Planning a Day Out in the Southern Highlands
Itinerary 1: Heritage and Scenery (Ideal for History Buffs and Nature Lovers)
Stops: Mittagong → Bowral → Berrima
Total Drive Time: Approx. 30 minutes (easy half-day with stops)
Start in Mittagong (Morning):
Begin with breakfast at a local café, then enjoy the scenic Lake Alexandra.
Explore the antique shops in Mittagong before heading to Mount Gibraltar Reserve for spectacular lookout points.
Drive to Bowral (10 minutes):
Visit the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame.
Take a short stroll to Bowral Lookout for views, then enjoy lunch at a local Bowral restaurant or café.
Afternoon in Historic Berrima (20-minute drive):
Tour the Berrima Courthouse Museum and walk around the historic village.
Conclude with shopping and local market browsing for souvenirs.
Itinerary 2: Wine and Dine (Perfect for Food and Wine Enthusiasts)
Stops: Moss Vale → Exeter → Bowral
Total Drive Time: Approx. 20 minutes (easygoing pace)
Begin in Moss Vale (Morning):
Start with breakfast at one of Moss Vale’s local cafés.
Explore Leighton Gardens before heading to the Southern Highlands Winery for a wine tasting and light lunch.
Head to Exeter (10 minutes):
Stop by the Exeter General Store for coffee and a cozy atmosphere.
Stroll through the village or take a nature walk around the scenic trails surrounding Exeter.
Evening in Bowral (10 minutes from Exeter):
Wrap up with an early dinner in Bowral. Try one of the many restaurants offering Southern Highlands local produce.
Plan Your Perfect Southern Highlands Adventure
Each town in the Southern Highlands has its own unique charm, making the region ideal for day trips that highlight NSW’s diverse heritage, landscapes, and flavors. Whether you’re exploring historical sites, sipping local wines, or hunting for antiques, the Southern Highlands promises something special for everyone.
Robertson
Known as the "Green Heart of the Highlands," Robertson is famous for its lush landscapes and vibrant agricultural community.
Highlights:
Robertson Cheese Factory: Sample artisan cheeses, ice cream, and browse a quirky selection of local products.
The Big Potato: A fun landmark that’s popular for photos.
Waterfall Exploration: Visit nearby waterfalls, including Carrington Falls and Belmore Falls, for stunning natural beauty.
Bundanoon
A quaint, historic town known for its annual Brigadoon Highland Gathering, Bundanoon is also a gateway to Morton National Park.
Highlights:
Morton National Park: Hike to Fairy Bower Falls or explore the park’s scenic lookouts.
Glow Worm Glen: A unique nighttime experience to see glow worms in a natural setting.
Bundanoon Garden Ramble: This event showcases the town’s beautiful private gardens, held annually.
Wingello and Penrose
These smaller villages offer a peaceful rural escape and are popular for bushwalking, cycling, and horseback riding.
Highlights:
Wingello State Forest: Perfect for outdoor activities like mountain biking and picnics.
Horse Riding: The area is well-regarded for horse trails and riding activities.
Burrawang
A tiny, historic village with plenty of charm and beautiful views, Burrawang is ideal for a short stop.
Highlights:
Burrawang Village Hotel: Enjoy a meal at this historic pub with lovely countryside views.
Historic Walking Trail: Explore the history of Burrawang through its charming buildings and heritage sites.
These towns add even more depth to a Southern Highlands guide and provide diverse experiences from natural landscapes and historic sites to local dining and rural adventures. Including these will give your readers a well-rounded sense of everything the region has to offer!
Canyonleigh
A rural community known for its serene atmosphere, wineries, and beautiful countryside.
Highlights:
Local Wineries: Canyonleigh is home to a few boutique wineries, making it ideal for an off-the-beaten-path wine tasting.
Rural Retreats: The area offers secluded accommodations perfect for a peaceful escape into nature.
Sutton Forest
This historic village is known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and grand estates, giving it a distinctly refined ambiance.
Highlights:
Eling Forest Estate Winery: A popular spot for wine tastings and enjoying local wines.
Historic Buildings: Wander through town to view heritage architecture, like the Sutton Forest Inn.
Red Cow Farm Garden: A beautifully designed garden open to the public, featuring a variety of plant species and garden rooms.
Avoca
A small, charming village surrounded by scenic farmland and rural landscapes, Avoca is ideal for those seeking a slower pace.
Highlights:
Avoca Vale Distillery: Known for producing spirits using local ingredients, this distillery offers tastings by appointment.
Rural Scenery: Great for photography and scenic drives through the farmlands and open countryside.
Kangaloon
This peaceful area is primarily rural, with rolling green hills, eucalyptus forests, and some of the region's best farming land.
Highlights:
Nature Walks: Ideal for walking, bird-watching, and enjoying Southern Highlands’ rural landscapes.
Kangaloon Cemetery: A historic cemetery with fascinating headstones, offering insight into the area's history.
Fitzroy Falls
Although often considered part of the Southern Highlands region, Fitzroy Falls is a locality centered around its iconic waterfall within Morton National Park.
Highlights:
Fitzroy Falls: The stunning waterfall is the primary draw, with a network of scenic walking trails.
Lookouts: Numerous lookouts offer breathtaking views of the surrounding escarpment and valley.
