Moss Vale

Moss Vale is a charming Southern Highlands town that feels a world away from Sydney, yet is just a 90-minute drive. With its historic streetscape, cool-climate gardens, and a thriving food scene, it's a perfect base for exploring the region's rolling green hills and country estates.

Highlights & What to See

• Stroll the main street – Argyle Street is lined with heritage buildings housing antiques shops, galleries, and cosy cafes. Don't miss the Moss Vale War Memorial and the grand post office.
• Explore the gardens – Visit the lush Retford Park (National Trust) for its formal gardens and historic homestead, or the sprawling Mount Broughton estate with its rhododendron collection.
• Wine and dine – The Southern Highlands is known for cool-climate wines; pop into cellar doors like Tertini Wines or Bendooley Estate. For a meal, try the rustic-chic Harry's on Green Lane or the historic Moss Vale Hotel.
• Walk or cycle the trails – The Wingecarribee River offers peaceful walking tracks, and the nearby Morton National Park has excellent bushwalking and lookouts.
• Local markets – The Moss Vale Community Market (fourth Saturday) is a treasure trove of local produce, crafts, and vintage finds.

Suggested Time to Spend

Moss Vale deserves at least a day to soak up its atmosphere, but two days allow you to explore the surrounding villages, gardens, and wineries without rushing. An overnight stay in a B&B or country pub lets you enjoy a relaxed dinner and a morning walk before heading off.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bowral – Just 10 minutes north, Bowral is the Southern Highlands' main hub, with the famous Bradman Museum, upmarket shopping, and the annual Tulip Time festival.
• Berrima – A beautifully preserved Georgian village (15 minutes north), perfect for a stroll, historic pubs, and the Berrima District Museum.
• Fitzroy Falls – A dramatic 81-metre waterfall in Morton National Park, about 20 minutes east, with excellent lookout platforms and walking trails.
• Kangaroo Valley – A scenic drive (30 minutes south) leads to this lush valley with the historic Hampden Bridge, canoeing on the river, and the Kangaroo Valley Pioneer Museum.

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