The Southern Highlands is a popular travel destination in New South Wales, approximately 110 kilometres southwest of Sydney. This region is known for its scenic beauty, historic towns and welcoming cool climate.
If you are planning a visit to this part of NSW, you can explore the historic towns of Bowral and Berrima, stroll through picturesque gardens, sample local wines at cellar doors, or embark on scenic drives through the rolling countryside.
With a broad range of cultural, outdoor, and culinary experiences, there are several things to do in the Southern Highlands that cater to every traveller's preferences.
Lovely Towns in the Southern Highlands
As you plan your travel itinerary, be sure to include these towns in your list of must-visit places. Each of these towns offers unique experiences waiting to be discovered.Bowral
This is the biggest town in the Southern Highlands that offers visitors a blend of attractions and experiences. The area is renowned for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Some of the things to do in Bowral include a visit to Fitzroy Falls, Cherry Tree Walk, and the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame.
Moss Vale
If you are looking for a laid-back town where you can explore new places and unwind in a rural setting, Moss Vale is the place for you. This town features farmers' markets, picturesque gardens, livestock sale yards, and traditional agricultural shows. Some of the must-visit spots in the region include Leighton Gardens and the Bowral & the Bong Bong Track.Berrima
Berrima is one of the most beautiful towns in the Southern Highlands, known for its colonial architecture and rich history. It is home to the Surveyor General Inn, a timeless treasure established in 1834. This hotel holds the record as Australia's oldest continually licensed inn. The other must-see attractions in Berrima include the Berrima District Museum and the Berrima River Walk.
Sutton Forest
This is a historic village town located 5 km southwest of Moss Vale. One of the most visited places in the area is the Red Cow Farm, a private garden that features vibrant flower beds and serene landscapes. The other things to do in Sutton Forest include the Sutton Forest Monument, the Hillview Hotel, and Sculpture Park.Admire the Stunning Galleries and Museums
The Southern Highlands' galleries and museums showcase a wide range of artwork that offers a rich and immersive cultural experience. Here are the two most visited cultural institutions where you can explore the region's history, art, and culture:Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame
Located in Bowral, Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame is a must-visit destination for cricket enthusiasts and sports fans. This iconic museum showcases state-of-the-art interactive exhibits tracing the origins of crickets and their evolution through significant eras.
Sturt Gallery & Studios
This popular studio and gallery is located in Mittagong, at the corner of Range Road & Waverley Parade. Established in 1941, Sturt Gallery & Studios is one of Australia's oldest studios known for promoting and teaching Australian craft. Stuart is also home to an award-winning craft shop and gallery that showcases exquisite Australian-made crafts such as woodwork, ceramics, and textiles.Leisure Walking and Sightseeing
If you are looking for a delightful way to experience the region's natural beauty and attractions, below are some of the best places to visit for leisure walking and sightseeing.Red Cow Farm - Open Garden
Red Cow Farm is located in Sutton Forest, along 7480 Illawarra Highway. It features private gardens renowned for their beautiful sculptures, beauty, and ambience. During your visit, you will explore vibrant floral displays, garden nooks, and meandering pathways. This farm offers parking, but animals and picnics are not permitted. Children must also be supervised at all times.Retford Park
Open Thursday to Sunday, the Retford Park, located at 1325 Old South Road, boasts a rich heritage dating back to the early 19th century. The park was once owned by James Fairfax but is now preserved by the National Trust. Visitors can enjoy strolls through hedged gardens as they admire sculptures and the serene ambience.
Corbett Gardens
Established in 1911, Corbett Gardens, located in Bowral, is a popular destination renowned for its display of tulips and vibrant springtime blooms. During your visit, you'll enjoy leisurely walks as you explore over 15,000 annuals and 75,000 tulips, creating a breathtaking floral spectacle. Entry to this park is typically free, but a fee applies during the festival held in late September.Guula Ngurra National Park
Guula Ngurra National Park is located in Canyonleigh and borders Berrima, Moss Vale, and Mittagong. The park is frequently visited by nature enthusiasts and adventurers looking to hike the trails while enjoying spectacular views of the Highlands.Southern Highlands' Must Try Vineyards
The region's cool climate, with rolling hills and lush greenery, is ideal for grape growing. Many vineyards in the area offer guided tours where visitors can learn about winemaking and taste cool-climate wines. Below are some of the best vineyards in the region.Centennial Vineyards
Located at 252 Centennial Road, this vineyard specialises in cool-climate grape growing and winemaking. Its unique location allows for slower fruit ripening, which results in balanced and aromatic wines. Centennial Vineyards produces various wines, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Tempranillo.
St Maur Wines
This family-run and boutique winery located along 238 Old Argyle Road in Exeter focuses on handcrafted cool-climate wines. St. Maur Wines features a sustainable vineyard dedicated to Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Merlot. Their rustic cellar door is set in a vintage dairy farm, which invites visitors to savour quality wines while enjoying extensive views of the region.Dawning Day Farms
The Dawning Day Farms, located along 25 Rockleigh Road in Exeter, is a sustainable haven for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts. The farm is part of Sustainable Winegrowing Australia, an organisation that prioritises social, environmental, and economic sustainability in winemaking. At the farm's cellar door are wines paired with local produce platters, plus you can unwind by the fire on cooler days. For a unique experience, you can stay in the farm's boutique barn accommodation and enjoy the farm life.
