Hewn out of the living rock in the 1860s using hand tools and blasting powder, Big Hill Cutting was at one time the deepest railway cutting in the southern hemisphere. Taken as it was near the eastern end of the cutting, even this pic doesn't properly illustrate the depth.

The cutting has a long and macabre history, with several workers killed during its construction due to a blasting accident and several drivers later perishing after crashing their automobiles through the old timber bridge's guardrails and down onto the rails below. Despite the history, it's a peaceful and beautiful place.

The old railway line was abandoned in the 1970s and runs for around 50km between the towns of Thirlmere and Mittagong. Although not a proper rail trail, there are service trails parallelling the railway for much of its length. I've walked it a few times, including the trip pictured which was undertaken 2-Boot-Drive Swagman style ;-)

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Find a great place to stay in Balmoral, which has a lot to offer the traveller looking to book a beach holiday.

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After arriving and checking into your hotel, you'll probably want to explore your surroundings. Make time for a range of local attractions, which include Bargo State Conservation Area and Bargo River State Conservation Area. For additional things to see and do, consider a visit to Trainworks or Destination Southern Highlands.

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