Southern Highlands Wineries

Escape Sydney's heat to the cool-climate vineyards of the Southern Highlands, a serene wine region known for its elegant cool-climate wines and charming countryside. This area, centered around the historic towns of Bowral, Berrima, and Robertson, offers a refined yet relaxed wine-tasting experience distinct from the larger Hunter Valley. The region's cool temperatures and rich soils produce exceptional Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines, as well as crisp Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling. Beyond the cellar doors, you'll find boutique cheese makers, lavender farms, and antique shops, making it a perfect weekend getaway for wine lovers and culture seekers alike.

Highlights & What to See

• Artisanal cellar doors: Visit standout wineries like Tertini Wines, with its contemporary architecture and superb Pinot Noir, and Bendooley Estate, set on a historic property with a book barn and lake views.
• Bowral: The region's hub, offering antique shopping, the Bradman Museum & International Cricket Hall of Fame, and the fabulous Dirty Janes vintage market.
• Berrima: A beautifully preserved Georgian village with historic inns, galleries, and the acclaimed Berkelouw Book Barn.
• Robertson: Known as the 'Garden Village', famous for its potato farming, the Big Potato, and stunning natural surrounds like Carrington Falls.
• Local produce and dining: Savor farm-to-table cuisine at winery restaurants, sample artisan cheeses at the Southern Highlands Cheese School, and pick your own berries at seasonal farms.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for a full weekend (two to three days) to explore the wineries at a relaxed pace. A day trip from Sydney is possible but feels rushed; you'll want at least one night to enjoy dinners and the region's peaceful ambiance. Spend the first day touring the southern vineyards around Berrima and Bowral, and the second exploring the Robertson area or taking a scenic drive through the Kangaroo Valley.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Kangaroo Valley: A lush valley with a historic village, suspension bridge, and kayaking on the Kangaroo River — a 30-minute drive east.
• Fitzroy Falls: Spectacular waterfall in Morton National Park, with walking trails and picnic spots, just 15 minutes south of Robertson.
• Mittagong: The northern gateway to the region, home to the Lake Alexandra Reserve and several craft breweries.
• Moss Vale: A historic town with a thriving arts scene, antique shops, and the beautiful Leighton Gardens.
• Bundanoon: Known for its glow-worm tunnels and the Brigadoon Scottish festival, about 20 minutes west of Bowral.

Please check official sources for current details.