From wild escarpments and ancient rainforest to manicured manor gardens and rolling vineyards, this mountain region offers diverse landscapes to explore and enjoy.
The Southern Highlands encompasses the rolling and mountainous hinterland southwest of Sydney and has wonderful national parks and gardens. Check out the area’s natural marvels, including bushland lookouts, waterfalls and ancient forests. After a day in the outdoors, settle in with a glass of regional cool-climate wine and a breathtaking mountain vista.
Explore the Southern Highlands’ charming townships, including Bowral, Bundanoon, Berrima, Mittagong and Moss Vale. Wander the towns’ historic streets and stop by boutique restaurants to savour regional produce and award-winning local wines. The region’s wellness spas offer relaxing treatments in gorgeous natural settings. In Bowral, discover a cherished piece of national history at the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame, which celebrates the lives of well-known Australian cricketers and the inimitable career of former Bowral local Sir Donald Bradman.
Follow the Southern Highlands’ walking trails and be rewarded with stunning views across the region’s peaks and tablelands. Find a range of walks for different fitness levels at the Morton National Park, the Mount Jellore Lookout, the Bowral Lookout, Gibbergunyah Reserve or the trail to the renowned cascade of Fitzroy Falls, which plunges through a fragrant rainforest gully. Enjoy unbeatable views of temperate rainforest and mountain ranges across the Illawarra, the Southern Highlands and Budderoo National Park from the Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk in Robertson.
Stay at Southern Highlands’ distinguished manor houses, such as Peppers Craigieburn, Berida Manor and Peppers Manor House. Stroll through the historic estates to admire manicured gardens and rustic architecture. The Corbett Gardens in Bowral is famous for its spring Tulip Time festival.
The Southern Highlands is located midway between Sydney and Canberra, within Australia’s magnificent Great Dividing Range. Reach the region within a 1-hour drive of the South Coast. Stay in historic country towns, upscale manors or beautiful forest retreats in this relaxing natural hideaway. The Southern Highlands has a cool climate with low humidity. Enjoy gorgeous native blooms in late winter or check out pretty English-style gardens in spring.
