NSW Southern Highlands

An abundance of quaint country towns are a special feature of the NSW highlands, many have rich historical value and are bubbling with their own personalities and peoples and they are an ideal place for romantic weekend getaways, day trips or places to dine out or explore. Obviously when one visits it’s easy to recognise the influences the cooler climates of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland have had around here.

Click to view some of the best places to visit on the Highlands

Colonial architecture, restored railway stations and many sandstone building can be seen scattered throughout the highland villages. With the remarkable stone courthouse now a museum Berrima is one town that showcases an impressive bygone era. Cafes and Tea Rooms offering Devonshire teas and other delectable meals make any visit worth the effort.

And while the region is is particularly great for viewing on open country roads it's also nice to get in amongst the villages and feel the character of the area as well. photo by Anetz

NSW Southern Highlands Visitor Information

The Southern Highlands have been describe as a world away and that’s easy to understand when visiting because of the crisp fresh air, the gorgeous sprawling scenery and the wonderful character of the people who reside in the laid back villages that dot the countryside here.

This is of course a very unique region with many places of discovery awaiting both new and past visitors. Apart from the major attractions throughout the region each village has become existent with its own distinctive qualities and locals who add much color and life to the pages that unfold around these often quaint country towns.

Popular Holiday Destinations

Berrima like many other highland villages draws visitors to it charm of yesteryear. This is a place where travellers like to stop by and pause a little while taking in some of the sonderful sights, gardens and walks as well as some of the shops and other offerings. Visit Berrima



Bowral is famous for the annual Tulip Festival, the Bradman Museum and being home to many of Australia's rich and famous. This town is popular for those who visit on day trips from Sydney and for romantic weekend getaways. Visit Bowral




Bundanoon is such a delightful town located on the main rail line that visitors from all over can come by either car or train. Come visit the rigadoon Festival in April each year or just take in the sights from with Morton National Park. Visit Bundanoon



Burrawang is one of the best examples of rural life so close to Sydney, with classic and timeless characters who simply love to live here amongst the age old village that was founded in the late 1800's. Worth a visit on any highlands venture. Visit Burrawang



Colo Vale is one of the many villages visited on day trips and displaying popular local community markets that keep the towns folk together and thick with pride. Only an hour down the road from the big smoke means that it's easy to get to. Visit Colo Vale



Fitzroy Falls is an ideal spot to visit with the family, it's located in the heart of Morton National Park and nearby to Belmore Falls and Carrington Falls. This area also makes a great place for a picnic or day outing. Visit Fitzroy Falls




Kangaroo Valley is located between the Southcoast and the Highlands and is one of the most visited places in NSW because of the sheer beauty and tranquility of the surrounding area. It also offers wonderful water activities on the Kangaroo River. Visit Kangaroo Valley



Mittagong is the gateway to the highlands and less than 2hours drive from Sydney. From here you can visit historic villages and buildings, wineries and restaurants or enjoy a drive in the country on one of the many tourist routes. Visit Mittagong



Moss Vale is a major centre of the highlands, it's a delight to visit with its wonderful tree lined main street, many country pubs and well kept Railway Station gardens. Also a major stop on the CountryLink train service and junction to the Illawarra. Visit Moss Vale



Robertson often sits in the clouds atop the Illawarra escarpment, it is home to the iconic Cheese Factory, a main stop on the Cockatoo Run, access point to some wonderful waterfalls and adoring Highland villages all this less than 1hour from the coast. Visit Robertson

Southern Highlands Accommodation

Making time to get away from the day to day grind is one thing we all need to do more often and what better place to take a break than some of the places offering accommodation on the highlands.There are Guest Houses offering family suites, Bed and Breakfast’s that range from art deco mansions to modern homes and historic period homes. Hotel and Motels and Caravan Parks for the budget conscious and Resorts and Health Spas for those that like to pamper themselves.

All in all there’s accommodation to suite all and that will help soothe away the tensions brought on from the hectic pace of life while putting the perspective back on to relaxation.

Southern Highlands Attractions

Like many regions the NSW Southern Highlands has its own attractions that draw different visitors from all over the state and country. Nature is the obvious choice of attractions with some awesome waterfalls to view. There are nature walks in the Morton National Park amongst the scribbly gums or a visit to the Glow Worm Glen in the dark can be a highlight.

There are Golf courses and Shops, the Book trail and Gardens, the most popular gardens are on view to the public during September and the famous Bowral Tulips Festival is also on in September. There’s a whole calendar of events throughout the year. There are Museums and even a Winetrail. Did you know that?

One of the most favoured attractions of highland visitors is the simple pleasure of driving in the country and of course some of the nearby regions with another lot of attractions. So take your time think it over and enjoy the marvellous wonders that are on offer in the NSW Southern Highlands.