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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Top Mittagong Hotel Reviews

Berrima Bakehouse Motel

10/10 Excellent

"Such a delightful stay in an extremely clean, quiet room…would highly recommend…great stop over just off the highway…delicious food options within short walking distance….thank you…we’ll be back"

Coniston Hotel Wollongong

10/10 Excellent

"The staff was really friendly upon our arrival despite it being really late. We had booked connecting rooms and got locked out of one of them, but the staff was helpful to help us open the door. The rooms are pretty cozy and spacious, and bathrooms are pretty big. Easy too given there is onsite parking. Overall a very comfortable stay! "

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Number of reviews	43
Accommodation	19 Farmstay
Lowest Price	AU$496
Highest Price	AU$769

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Top Mittagong Hotel Reviews

Berrima Bakehouse Motel

Mittagong Motel

Five Islands Hotel

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Links House

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