Berrima, NSW

A beautiful historic town full of character and charm – Berrima is a little slice of countryside heaven. A predominantly preserved Georgian village filled with stone cottages, historic buildings, established gardens and the loveliest main street to peruse. Situated on what was once the main highway between Sydney and Melbourne, now this quaint village is its own destination – a place to browse, wander, and enjoy at your leisure.

If you’re a shopper – this is your town. For the best ceramics, you can’t go past the handmade and beautifully finished pieces from Berrima Village Pottery. Any art lover must make their way to Michael Reid Art Gallery and Whitewall Art Projects Gallery for an incredible selection of curated pieces to fill your home. The Highlands institution – Gumnut Patisserie – has it’s original store here, and is always worth picking up a few sweet treats. And speaking of sweet – a stop at The Lolly Swagman is a must – an old-fashioned lolly shop with the best selection you’ll find anywhere in the country. Enjoy a peruse down the main street at the various stores, galleries, knick-knacks and cafes, and wind around to PepperGreen Estate cellar door for a wine tasting.

“Situated on what was once the main highway between Sydney and Melbourne, now this quaint village is its own destination.”

Foodies are in luck, because one of the very best restaurants in the Highlands is here – the award-winning Eschalot. Fresh, seasonal produce served up in generous country portions with a modern twist. And for a fantastic country pub with a great menu and great vibes – the Surveyor General Inn has you covered. The oldest continuously licensed pub in Australia, and for good reason - killer location and consistently great food.

Of course, Bendooley Estate is one to visit. What was once just the iconic Berkelouw Book Barn, is now a stunning sprawling estate including a cellar door, restaurant, popular wedding destination, plus beautiful cottages to stay.

BERRIMA VAULT HOUSE

The most incredible place to work, drink, dine, play and stay – Berrima Vault House has it all. A stunningly renovated venue in an historic building has transformed this space into a destination not to be missed. During the week, this is a unique private members club for corporates and creatives, but on the weekends -everyone is welcome, and I definitely recommend you take the opportunity to visit!

With great food from Exec Chef Tommy Prosser, and the spectacular cocktails and wine list from Hank & Molly’s Bar – there are so many different spaces to experience. From the chic upstairs Lounge, to the sexy Jail Cells, the moody Fireplace Lounge, sunny Terrace and stunning Rose Garden – each with their own personality and vibes. Plus my favourite element of them all – The Residence. And incredible light-filled two (and a half) bedroom apartment overlooking the main street of Berrima. With interiors curated by the incredible Carlie Philby of CP&Co – this space is perfection.

Highlights

Eat

Eschalot, Berrima Vault House, Bendooley Estate, Gumnut Patisserie

Drink

Berrima Vault House, The Surveyor General Inn, Peppergreen Estate Cellar Door

Coffee

Berrima General Store, Josh’s Cafe, Berrima Vault House, Berkelouw Book Barn

Walk

Along the river or around the gardens of Harper’s Mansion

Explore

Bendooley Estate including the cellar door, restaurant, and Berkelouw Book Barn

Shop

Berrima Village Pottery, Lolly Swagman, Michael Reid Gallery, Whitewall Art Projects Gallery, Mrs Oldbuck’s Pantry, Alpaca Barn, Brown Shutter