Southern Highlands Wineries

Just a scenic two-hour drive from Sydney, the Southern Highlands unfurls as a cool-climate wine lover's paradise, where rolling green hills are dotted with cellar doors, artisan producers, and heritage villages. This is a region where the air smells of eucalyptus and ripening grapes, and the pace of life slows to a pleasant amble. Whether you're a dedicated oenophile or simply seeking a day of pastoral beauty, the Southern Highlands offers a refined yet unpretentious escape into New South Wales' wine country.

Highlights & What to See

• Bendooley Estate – A standout cellar door set in a rambling barn with a roaring fireplace and a bookshop; try their acclaimed pinot noir and chardonnay.
• Artemis Wines – A boutique winery known for small-batch, handcrafted wines; the tasting experience is intimate and personal.
• Centennial Vineyards – One of the region's largest, with a sleek modern cellar door and a restaurant that pairs local produce with their award-winning wines.
• Southern Highlands Farmers Markets – Held at the Bowral Showground on the first Saturday of each month, this is the place to stock up on local cheeses, preserves, and fresh bread.
• Dirty Janes – A treasure trove of vintage and antique shops in Bowral, perfect for a midday browse between tastings.

Suggested Time to Spend

For a relaxed exploration, set aside a full day – from mid-morning to late afternoon. This allows you to visit three to four cellar doors at a leisurely pace, enjoy a long lunch at one of the winery restaurants, and poke around the charming towns of Bowral and Berrima. If you're on a self-drive itinerary from Sydney or the South Coast, consider an overnight stay to fully immerse yourself in the region's hospitality.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bowral – The main town, known for its boutique shopping, cafés, and the grand Corbett Gardens.
• Berrima – A beautifully preserved Georgian village with historic inns, galleries, and a famous pie shop.
• Morton National Park – Just east, offering dramatic sandstone escarpments, lookouts, and bushwalks at Fitzroy Falls.
• Kangaroo Valley – A lush, scenic valley with a historic bridge, kayaking on the river, and a vibrant community of artists.
• Port Stephens – A three-hour drive east, combining wine touring with coastal adventures like sand dunes and dolphin cruises.

Please check official sources for current details.