Berrima

Berrima is a perfectly preserved Georgian village in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, where sandstone buildings, convict-built bridges, and tree-lined lanes evoke a bygone era. This historic gem, bypassed by the Hume Highway, offers a peaceful detour for travellers seeking colonial charm, artisan food, and a sense of stepping back in time.

Highlights & What to See

• Berrima Courthouse – An elegant 1830s sandstone courthouse, now a museum, where you can explore a recreated 19th-century courtroom and learn about the village's convict past.
• Berrima Historic Walk – Follow the self-guided trail past 30-plus heritage-listed buildings, including the Surveyor General Inn (1834), the oldest continuously licensed pub in NSW, and the beautiful St Francis Xavier's Catholic Church.
• Berrima Vault & Cellar – Sample cool-climate wines from the Southern Highlands at this atmospheric cellar door set in a former bank vault, and pick up local cheeses and preserves.
• Bendooley Estate – A short drive away, this winery boasts a magnificent book barn housing over 30,000 second-hand books, plus a cellar door and a lovely café overlooking the vines.
• Harper's Mansion – Climb the hill to this restored 1830s home for panoramic views of the village and a glimpse into the life of a wealthy colonial family.

Suggested Time to Spend

Berrima is easily explored in a half-day, especially if you combine a stroll through the historic streets with a wine tasting and a pub lunch. Many visitors spend 2–3 hours, but if you linger over a long lunch at the Surveyor General Inn or browse the antique shops, you could happily fill an afternoon. For a deeper dive, consider an overnight stay at one of the village's B&Bs or boutique hotels.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bowral – The bustling hub of the Southern Highlands, famous for its tulip festival, antiques, and the Bradman Museum, just 10 minutes' drive north.
• Mittagong – A charming town with a thriving food scene, craft breweries, and the lovely Lake Alexandra, only 5 minutes away.
• Fitzroy Falls – Spectacular waterfall in Morton National Park, about 30 minutes south, with excellent bushwalking and picnic spots.
• Moss Vale – Known for its historic buildings and the bustling Moss Vale Markets (on the 4th Saturday of the month), a 10-minute drive east.
• Southern Highlands Wineries – The region's cool-climate vineyards, such as Centennial Vineyards and Tertini Wines, are scattered around Berrima and make for a lovely self-drive tasting tour.

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