There’s something magical about the Southern Highlands. Made up of a series of leafy villages, including Bowral, Bundanoon, Robertson, Sutton Forest, and historic Berima, well-heeled Sydneysiders have been visiting the area for well over a century for a city escape and a welcome dose of crisp, fresh country air.
The Southern Highlands is Gundungurra Country, some 700m above sea level on the Great Dividing Range with spectacular mountain outlooks, waterfalls, and wiery bushland to explore. Unlike the Blue Mountains, however, rows of planted oak and elm trees and sprawling country manor houses give the Southern Highlands its romantic English countryside aesthetic. It’s also one of NSW’s noted wine regions, with around 60 vineyards growing cool climate Pinot Noir and other tasty drops.
At just 90 minutes out of Sydney, it’s a pretty quick trip too. If you’re planning a weekend getaway, a wine-tasting adventure, or have a wedding to attend, these are our top picks for the Southern Highlands’ best accommodation.
The Best Hotels In The Southern Highlands
Osborn House
Bundanoon
This stunning Southern Highlands manor quietly opened its doors in February 2022, complete with 15 unique suites and seven self-contained cabins, each looking out onto the beautiful garden and forest beyond. Design lovers will swoon over the property’s magnificent details. The interiors are the work of London-based designer Linda Boronkay (Soho House) alongside Sydney-based Mac Design Studio, led by interior architect Alan McMahon. As well as looking the part, at Osborn House, you can also indulge in the 25m lap pool and an ultra-luxe spa with four treatment rooms, a sauna, steam room, cool plunge, and gym. The on-site restaurant is led by executive chef team Segundo Farrell and Luz Gimenez, with a focus on cooking over fire. Book your stay here.
Milton Park Country House Hotel And Spa
Bowral
Milton Park Country House is a converted manor house inspired by the country hotels of Europe. Basically, if Downton Abbey is the mood you’re in, this is the spot to live and breathe it. Milton Park is a popular spot for weddings thanks to its romantic gardens. Prep your camera for the ivy-covered pool house, wisteria archways, and bluebell fields, book a garden suite to wake up to views of the courtyard and rolling green paddocks beyond, and schedule a little self-care time at the luxurious wellness spa. Book your stay here.