The Southern Highlands delivers something rare in regional Australia — genuine English village charm, world-class fine dining, extraordinary autumn colour and an atmosphere so removed from Sydney that 90 minutes on the Hume Highway feels like a different country.
When to Visit the Southern Highlands
Late April and May is when the Southern Highlands earns its reputation — the European trees along Bowral's main streets and in private gardens turn amber, red and gold in a display that is genuinely world-class. Tulip Time (held over the September long weekend in Bowral's Corbett Gardens) draws visitors from across Australia and books out months ahead — the 70,000 tulips in full bloom are extraordinary. Winter is the most romantic time — fire-lit restaurants, misty mornings and very few crowds.
Bowral vs Berrima — Which Village is Better?
Both are worth visiting and they're only 15 minutes apart. Bowral is more polished — better restaurants, more boutiques, the Donald Bradman Museum and the prettiest main street colour in autumn. Berrima is more historic — an almost entirely preserved 1830s village with a fascinating convict-built courthouse and a beautiful old pub. Spend Saturday in Bowral and drive to Berrima for Sunday morning — the combination is perfect.
Best Restaurants in the Southern Highlands
Eschalot Restaurant in Berrima is the region's benchmark — hat-awarded, exceptional local produce, booking essential well in advance for any weekend visit. Biota Dining in Bowral is the more adventurous option with a garden-to-plate philosophy and one of the most interesting menus in regional Australia. For casual dining, the White Horse at Sutton Forest is a classic country pub done properly. Gumnut Patisserie for breakfast is non-negotiable — the pastries are exceptional.
Things to Do in the Southern Highlands
Fitzroy Falls in Morton National Park is a 20-minute drive from Bowral and one of the most dramatic waterfall views in NSW — a 100-metre plunge into the Kangaroo Valley gorge. The Highlands Food and Wine Trail connects 40+ producers including cheese makers, honey producers, chocolatiers and wineries — self-drive with a trail map. Bowral's antique shops and boutiques on Bong Bong Street are excellent for a Saturday morning browse. Centennial Vineyards for cellar door is charming.