The Southern Highlands is a region that boasts an abundance of heritage buildings, historic landmarks and natural wonders. Marked as one of New South Wales’ wine hubs, Southern Highlands is surrounded by acres of planted vines and ample greenery. The region’s old world charm encourages both locals and visitors alike to slow down and enjoy all the area has to offer.
Located 90 minutes south of Sydney, Southern Highlands encompasses country living at its finest, radiating a sense of togetherness and locality.
Southern Highlands’ sense of community is an entrenched characteristic of the region. At the heart of Southern Highlands, Bowral town centre serves as the thriving hub for locally owned boutiques, farmer’s markets, gourmet restaurants and local landmarks such as the Bradman Museum, Corbett Gardens and Springetts Arcade.
Venture 10 kilometres away from the Bowral and the cosy town of Berrima will enthrall with its vast historical culture. Home to historical buildings such as the Berrima Gaol and Courthouse and Harpers Mansion, Berrima is a village that thrives with heritage.
If you’re looking for genuine countryside living, Peppers Manor House and Peppers Craigieburn are picturesque properties that will deliver the perfect Southern Highlands accommodation experience. These stunning rural properties incorporate deluxe elements of a Southern Highlands retreat – with both properties surrounded by lush garden countryside and a wealth of guest facilities.
Attractions and Activities in Southern Highlands
Food and Wine
As one of Australia’s up and coming cool climate wine regions, wandering the acreage fields of surrounding wine estates is a good place to begin exploring Southern Highlands. With various vineyards including Southern Highlands Wines, Artemis Wines and PYGMY Hill Estate offering wine tasting, estate tours and on-site restaurants with exquisite culinary dishes made from local artisan produce, the family owned estates provide a taste of the region’s quality grown food and wine. With spectacular open spaces that sprawl into the distance, through the estates can easily become an all-day affair.
Walking Tracks
If you’re planning to immerse yourself completely in the natural surrounds, the region has a variety of bush walking trails through National Parks that lead to breathtaking views and impressive scenery. Routes at Morton National Park vary from easy slower paced walks to more challenging tracks specifically reserved for experienced walkers.
The East Rim wildflower walking track is a perfect beginner’s track, boasting with grassy woodlands, rainforest areas populated with native birds and spectacular lookouts nestled throughout the trail. Alternatively, the trail from Hindmarsh lookout carpark is a short 45 minute walk that leads to views of the stunning Belmore Falls.
As a more challenging option, the Pigeon House Mountain Didthul walking trail has steep climbs and various ladders to conquer, but rewards with captivating views of cliffs and gorges within the Budawang wilderness.
Wandering through Southern Highlands’ lush bush lands and sanctuary of plants and wildlife omits a constant sense of wonder and awe, leaving nature’s displays of extraordinary sights firmly ingrained in memory.
Seasonal Activities
For a truly, immersive experience into country life plan your trip around one of two major annual events held in the region. If you are a Scottish fiend than the Brigadoon in Bundanoon festival is for you. The festival, held in April each year, celebrates Scotland’s highland culture with dancing, games and cuisine on offer.
The Southern Highlands second significant annual event, Tulip Time in Bowral, is one of Australia’s oldest floral festivals, running annually for the last 55 years. The festival is celebrated for two weeks in September and includes music in the gardens, a street parade and market stalls touting local produce, food and wine.
Accommodation in Southern Highlands
Staying in the Southern Highlands to wind down and relax is simple with Peppers. Peppers Manor House or Peppers Craigieburn are both conveniently located within surrounding towns and local attractions, making the properties the perfect Southern Highlands accommodation choice.
Peppers Manor House
Peppers Manor House is framed by incredible park-like grounds. Equipped with a myriad of outdoor guest amenities, the property is also host to Katers Restaurant and the cosy Nook Bar. Inside, the manor has undergone significant refurbishment and has been styled with distinctive features that bring the character of the original building to surface. The various rooms and suites are decorated to highlight the majestic aesthetic of the mansion and are furnished with elegant pieces that complement the overall theme of the building.
Peppers Craigieburn
At Peppers Craigieburn, a private 100 year old golf course stands as the main focal point of the property. The grounds are framed by impeccably kept gardens and outdoor guest amenities, as well as the newly refurbished Hickory's Restaurant and Bar.
The rooms and suites at Peppers Craigieburn emanate a comfortable Southern Highlands retreat feel. With modern facilities and sweeping views of the gardens, accommodation at Peppers Craigieburn offers the perfect balance of style and elegance.