An hour and a half south-west of Sydney, the Southern Highlands trade beach weather for cool-climate wineries, historic villages and gardens that actually go golden in autumn — a genuine change of pace rather than another coastal drive.
Where to Taste Wine
- Artemis Wines — Mittagong, Southern Highlands
- Centennial Vineyards — Bowral, Southern Highlands
Where to Explore
Berrima is the Highlands’ best-preserved colonial village — sandstone buildings, antique shops and the historic Surveyor General Inn, one of Australia’s oldest continuously licensed pubs. Bowral is the region’s hub, home to the Bradman Museum (cricket legend Don Bradman grew up here) and, each spring, the Tulip Time Festival’s public gardens.
Fitzroy Falls, in Morton National Park, is the Highlands’ most dramatic natural feature — an 81-metre drop with a lookout an easy walk from the car park, plus longer walking tracks for anyone wanting more.
Where to Stay
The Highlands run heavily on B&Bs and boutique country stays rather than big hotel chains — book ahead for weekends, especially during Tulip Time in spring.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is the Southern Highlands from Sydney?
About 90 minutes to 2 hours’ drive south-west of Sydney via the Hume Highway.
What is the Southern Highlands known for?
Cool-climate wineries, historic villages like Berrima, gardens, and Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park.
