6 PLACES TO VISIT IN SYDNEY’S SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS

“AND AT THE END OF THE DAY, YOUR FEET SHOULD BE DIRTY, YOUR HAIR MESSY, AND YOUR EYES SPARKLING” – SHANTI

Nestled just over 100KM south-west of Sydney is the famous Southern Highlands. Considered both a wine connoisseurs dream and nature lovers haven, there’s plenty to see and do in this much loved region.

For those wanting a nature fix, or perhaps to burn some calories after some wine tasting, I have included 6 great spots in this famous region that are easy to find and show off what the Southern Highlands has to offer.

NELLIE’S GLEN

Located near Carrington Falls in Budderoo National Park, Nellie’s Glen is a short 100M walk from the car-park off Cloonty Road, Robertson. It’s both peaceful and beautiful. Can stop here for a picnic lunch, or on the way to Carrington Falls.

JAMBEROO LOOKOUT

Offering spectacular views of Kiama and Lake Illwarra from Budderoo National Park, Jamberoo lookout is about a 10-minute drive from Carrington Falls. Head along Jamberoo Mountain Road and watch for signs to the lookout.

FITZROY FALLS

Fitzroy Falls and Fitzroy Visitor Centre in Morton National Park, just off Nowra Road, is a great place to stop for those exploring the Southern Highlands. The visitor centre is very informative and has a café and toilets. It is $4 per car per day to park in the Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre Carpark or you can purchase an $8 ticket that includes your parking in other spots in the Bundanoon area.

BELMORE FALLS

Another spot worth visiting in Morton National Park is Belmore Falls. The short walk starts at Hindmarsh Lookout Carpark and the trail follows along the escarpment to several lookouts before finishing at Belmore Falls.

CARRINGTON FALLS

Only a few minutes from Nellie’s Glen is the famous Carrington Falls. There are a number of walking tracks from the picnic area offering different lookouts fronting the falls which are all of an easy to medium grade. There’s a picnic area here as well for those who want to stop for a picnic lunch.

DRAWING ROOM ROCKS

Though not technically the Southern Highlands, you would be crazy not to stop in at Drawing Room Rocks if you’re headed in that direction. Located in Barren Grounds Nature Reserve, this lookout is nature’s version of a drawing room – with tables and chairs made of rock – offering stunning panoramic views over the south coast.