Moss Vale

Moss Vale and the Southern Highlands have become a popular day trip and weekend getaway destination over the past two decades with couples also making it their choice for romantic getaways and overnight stays. It offers Hotel and Motel accommodation as well as B&B’s and themed lodgings as well within the area.

First settled by Europeans in the early 1800’s, within a short period of time small huts appeared for accommodating the local constabulary and the military. It wasn’t until the 1865 that the rail line reach town and town actually started to grow with new buildings and housing. History tells us that the town’s name was derived from one of Charles Throsby’s herdsmen, Jeremy Moss.

Popular Link to Sydney and the Illawarra

As the town grew in population so did the sheep and cattle farming on the lush and fertile land within the district. Increased interest ultimately spread to Sydneysiders who enjoyed the beautiful scenery and fresh highland atmosphere thus making it a popular holiday destination and weekend stay.

As a major stop on the southern rail line a junction was incorporated to move limestone from the area eastward over the Illawarra escarpment to Port Kembla but ultimately fell into disuse after many years. Today that very rail line is known as the Illawarra Scenic Mountain Railway and is used to carry the 3801 Limited on the Cockatoo Run The Railway Station is a fine example of Victorian Architecture and is set prominently in the main street, as are a few of the other buildings around town.

Places Of Interest

Leighton Gardens is the grand park in the centre of Moss Vale and is one of the districts highlights, it is also a pleasurable place to sit and unwind. If you feel like something to eat or drink there is an assortment of good cafes and restaurant in town as well.

The course record is 66 and ready to be broken by all hackers who think they can. Moss Vale Golf club offers a variety of “stay and play” packages at the Dormie House onsite.

The Moss Vale Agricultural Show operates every March and offers a real family experience in the time honoured tradition of genuine old time country fairs. Highlights are the billy tea and damper making demonstrations. There are exhibits by schools and local business, various competition, rides for the kids, entertainment and side show alley as well as agricultural and commercial displays.

Day drives around the surrounding countryside are very pleasant with numerous small villages offering great opportunities for window shoping, handmade crafts and various antiques.

Lookouts and Waterfalls

Waterfalls and lookouts are a real treat to discover with close by and Fitzroy, Belmore and Carrington Falls well worth the visit. There are lookouts at Talong and Robertson with views to die for down the huge valleys that run through Morton National Park.