Southern Highlands

Whereas Wollongong flicks off its shoes and enjoys the coastal life, up here on the Southern Highlands, it prefers to don its boots and riding gear to set off on horseback, as an instrumental theme tune blasts out. Okay, maybe that’s a tad dramatic, but you’ll be sure to be captivated by the style and sweeping gardens in this unique setting. 

There are so many varied towns sharing this space that it’s a little like trying to herd cats. But these ones purr rather than scratch, with big kids Bowral and Mittagong famous for boutiques, gourmet dining, galleries and those camera-friendly gardens. In Bowral, you’ll also find the Bradman Oval and museum – paying homage to the world’s most famous cricketer.

The Highlands love a good trail, be it coffee, wine, tulips or simply making your own dotted-line between the smaller villages of Berrima (with Australia’s oldest pub), Bundanoon (as Scottish as it sounds), Moss Vale and more. And just when you think the rolling hills and almost English-like setting is quite enough, along come some stunning waterfalls such as the tumbling torrent of Fitzroy Falls – a must see.

From Wollongong, a journey to the Highlands is an easy day trip – offering a fertile inland experience and the perfect compliment to the surf and sand of the coast with the most!