Southern Highlands Nsw Travel Guide
Explore the Best of Southern Highlands NSW
Situated in New South Wales, Southern Highlands is a picturesque destination known for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, Southern Highlands has something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide will take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions in Southern Highlands NSW
Berrima
Berrima is a quaint village in Southern Highlands with a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The village is home to several historical landmarks, including the Berrima Courthouse and the Berrima Gaol, both of which are open to visitors. Take a stroll through the village’s charming streets, visit local boutiques and galleries, and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes.
Fitzroy Falls
Fitzroy Falls is a stunning natural wonder located in Morton National Park. The falls drop 81 meters into the valley below, creating a breathtaking scene. Take a walk along the Fitzroy Falls Walking Track, which offers panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding landscape. The track is suitable for all fitness levels and is wheelchair accessible.
Mount Gibraltar
Mount Gibraltar is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. The mountain offers several walking tracks that take you through lush forests and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The mountain is also home to several picnic spots, making it a perfect destination for a family day out.
Hidden Gems in Southern Highlands NSW
Bundanoon
Bundanoon is a charming village located in the heart of Southern Highlands. The village is known for its beautiful parks, gardens, and walking tracks. Take a walk along the Glow Worm Glen, a hidden gem that offers a unique opportunity to see the bioluminescent glow worms in their natural habitat.
Bong Bong Picnic Racecourse
The Bong Bong Picnic Racecourse is a historic racecourse located in the heart of Southern Highlands. The racecourse has been in operation since 1886 and is home to several annual events, including the Bong Bong Picnic Races and the Highland Gathering. The racecourse is also open to visitors throughout the year and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Belmore Falls
Belmore Falls is a hidden gem located in Morton National Park. The falls drop 100 meters into the valley below, creating a stunning scene. Take a walk along the Belmore Falls Walking Track, which offers panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding landscape.
Food Scene in Southern Highlands NSW
Bowral Farmers Market
The Bowral Farmers Market is a must-visit destination for foodies. The market is open every Saturday and offers a wide range of local produce, including fresh fruits and vegetables, artisanal bread, cheese, meat, and seafood. The market is also a great place to try local dishes and sample some of the region’s finest wines.
Birch Restaurant
Birch Restaurant is a fine-dining restaurant located in Moss Vale. The restaurant offers a seasonal menu that showcases the best of the region’s produce. The dishes are beautifully presented and are complemented by an extensive wine list.
The Press Shop
The Press Shop is a charming cafe located in Bowral. The cafe offers a range of delicious dishes, including homemade pastries, sandwiches, and salads. The cafe is also known for its great coffee and friendly service.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Southern Highlands NSW
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the best of Southern Highlands. Here are some budget-friendly tips to make the most of your trip:
- Visit the region during the off-season to take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds.
- Take advantage of the many free walking tracks and parks in the region.
- Shop for local produce at the farmers markets and cook your meals at home.
- Stay in budget-friendly accommodation options, such as hostels or camping grounds.
- Take advantage of discounts and deals offered by local businesses and attractions.
Outdoor Adventures in Southern Highlands NSW
Bushwalking
Southern Highlands is home to some of the best bushwalking tracks in New South Wales. The region offers a range of tracks suitable for all fitness levels, from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Some of the most popular tracks include the Fitzroy Falls Walking Track, the Three Views Walking Track, and the Boxvale Walking Track.
Mountain Biking
The region’s natural beauty also makes it a popular destination for mountain biking. The trails in the region offer a range of difficulty levels, from easy beginner trails to challenging downhill runs. Some of the most popular mountain biking trails in the region include the Wingello State Forest Trail and the Bundanoon MTB Track.
Horse Riding
Experience the beauty of Southern Highlands on horseback. The region offers several horse riding trails that take you through picturesque countryside and lush forests. Some of the most popular horse riding trails in the region include the Centennial Glen Stables and the Kangaroo Valley Horse Riding.
Family-Friendly Activities in Southern Highlands NSW
Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens
The Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens is a beautiful destination for families. The gardens offer a range of activities for children, including a fairy garden, a maze, and a playground. The gardens are also home to several walking tracks and picnic spots.
Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures
The Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures is a unique experience that allows you to walk among the treetops of a native forest. The adventure includes a 1.5-kilometer walk through the treetops, a climb up the spiral tower, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Bowral Swimming Pool
The Bowral Swimming Pool is a popular destination for families during the summer months. The pool is heated and offers several slides and water features for children to enjoy.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in Southern Highlands NSW
Berrima River Walk
The Berrima River Walk is a hidden gem that takes you through picturesque countryside and along the banks of the Wingecarribee River. The walk is suitable for all fitness levels and is a great way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
Bundanoon Abandoned Railway Tunnel
The Bundanoon Abandoned Railway Tunnel is a unique experience that takes you through a historic railway tunnel that has been abandoned for over 40 years. The tunnel is open to visitors and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s industrial history.
The Milk Factory Gallery
The Milk Factory Gallery is a hidden gem located in Bowral. The gallery showcases the works of local artists and hosts regular exhibitions and events. The gallery is housed in a historic milk factory and is a great place to experience the region’s art and culture scene.
Natural Wonders in Southern Highlands NSW
Moss Vale Golf Course
The Moss Vale Golf Course is a stunning destination that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The course is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
Wombeyan Caves
The Wombeyan Caves are a natural wonder located in the Wombeyan Karst Conservation Reserve. The caves offer a unique opportunity to explore the region’s underground world and see stunning rock formations and cave systems.
Mount Alexandra Reserve
The Mount Alexandra Reserve is a beautiful destination that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The reserve is home to several walking tracks and picnic spots, making it a perfect destination for a day out in nature.
Vibrant Nightlife in Southern Highlands NSW
Bowral Hotel
The Bowral Hotel is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The hotel offers a range of entertainment, including live music, comedy shows, and trivia nights. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar that serves delicious food and drinks.
The Imperial Hotel
The Imperial Hotel is a historic hotel located in Bowral. The hotel has been in operation since 1880 and is known for its vibrant atmosphere and live music. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar that serve delicious food and drinks.
The Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel is a popular destination for nightlife in Southern Highlands. The hotel has a lively bar that serves a range of cocktails and drinks, as well