Things to do around Berrima, NSW

Things to Do Around Berrima, NSW

There are plenty of things to do around Berrima, NSW – the picture-perfect town just off the main highway en route to the Southern Highlands. It’s a popular spot and a drawcard for many tourists because of its mix of history, unique shopping, Berrima food and wine, and adventure. Plus, there’s some fabulous day trips from Berrima you’ll love. Whether you’re craving a relaxing weekend getaway, a foodie-filled escape, or on a shopping mission, Berrima is a very good place to spend some memorable time. We’ve put together an excellent list on the things you shouldn’t miss while visiting.

Getting to Berrima, NSW from Sydney, Canberra, and Brisbane

Getting to Berrima, NSW is easy and scenic. From Sydney, it’s just a 90-minute drive via the M5 and Hume Highway. From Canberra, it’s about a 2-hour drive, making it an ideal spot for a weekend escape. And if you’re coming from Brisbane, a flight to Sydney or Canberra followed by a leisurely drive south will put you in Berrima’s streets lined with quaint shops in about 3.5 to 4 hours. Pack your bags, because your next adventure awaits in this vibrant, historic town.

Wellness and Pampering Hotspots in Berrima, NSW

• Allymac Massage Therapy: This place is determined to get results with relaxation massage and lymphatic drainage if you’re feeling a little a little under the weather. Otherwise, remedial massage is better suited to your needs. Cnr Bong Bong & Wingecarribee Streets Shop 10, Highlands Arcade, Bowral.
• Endota Spa Bowral: Endota’s range of beautiful services are legendary. They offer relaxation, pregnancy & remedial massage, facials and beauty & body treatments plus a range of gorgeous beauty products like their sublime Hydrating Mists. 20 Merrigang St, Bowral.
• Glam Bowral: They have an extensive range of beauty, skincare, makeup and cosmetics. You can have a full service with facial, spa and body treatments by a very qualified team of make up artists, cosmetic specialists and senior therapists. 325 Bong Bong St, Bowral.
• Sculptress Day Spa: The pampering here is next level. Yes, they offer beautiful traditional treatments, but it’s their state-of-the-art therapeutic technology like HIFU (High Intensity Focused Ultrasound) and Fat Freezing that’s getting a lot of attention. Sculptress use ULTRAcel Q+ treatment to trigger the body’s healing process and boost collagen levels for a resulting much younger skin. 26 Shangri La, Rd Bundanoon.

Explore and Discover Things to Do around Berrima, NSW

Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Trips:

• Visit Bendooley Estate – go for a walk through the vineyard and paddocks.
• Play golf at one of the five major 18-hole courses in the area.
• Visit Corbett Gardens, Bowral (September to October) for its stunning tulip display.
• Berrima Lookout and Goulburn’s Rocky Hill War Memorial and Lookout: Both spots are perfect for a panoramic view of the town and its surrounding rolling hills – a great photo op.
• Go bush-walking or horse-riding, or visit the spectacular Fitzroy Falls.
• Red Rocks Nature Reserve: A hidden gem with walking tracks through scenic bushland and amazing rock formations, ideal for a peaceful afternoon.
• Kids will love the playgrounds and swings at the many parks and reserves in the area in and around Berrima.
• Berrima River Walk: This a lovely scenic 1.8km (about an hour) walk along the riverbank trail of the Wingecarribee. The Walk starts from Berrima Reserve which is located at the end of Oxley Street (on the same side of the main road as the Berrima Gaol). You’ll eventually notice interesting  historical photographs as this area was once the site of a German Internment Camp from 1915 to 1919. They also held regattas back in the day too and today, you may see local kids enjoying the rope swing into the cool water. Wear joggers or hiking boots as the path can be slippery after rains.

Day Trips from Berrima: Bowral,  Bundanoon, Mittagong, Moss Vale and Wombeyan

• Nellie’s Glen: Just outside Mittagong, this is a top spot with a beautiful waterfall – very peaceful for a nature walk or picnic.
• Lake Alexandra, Mittagong: It’s a cool spot for a swim, a BBQ, picnic, or a walk along the sealed pathway around the lake. The kiddies also love feeding the ducklings here. Bit of a hidden secret really.
• Cataract Gorge: Not far from Berrima, this natural wonder near Mittagong is perfect for a relaxing day trip with stunning views, walking trails, and wildlife.
• Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens: Full of local plants and wildlife. There’s exotic, native & endemic species laid out by season and covering 15 hectares. 1 Old S Rd, Bowral
• Wingecarribee Dam: The dam’s a good picnic spot, or there’s walking trails. Otherwise just relax beside the water.
• Wombeyan Caves: A bit of a drive, but totally worth it – explore this wild limestone cave system and feel like you’re in another world. Check for reopening times after rains/floods.
• Morton National Park: one of the largest parks in NSW and has beautiful walking trails. Make sure you check opening and closing times before you set off. There’s plenty to see including Fitzroy Falls and Granite Falls further south, and lookout points with spectacular views. The walking trails are dotted with native flowers, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot some wildlife.
• Leighton Gardens, Moss Vale. Have a wander and enjoy the pavillion and seasonal flowers.

Historic and Cultural Highlights around Berrima

• Berrima Historic Walk: Take the self-guided walk around the town that lets you explore Berrima’s rich history.
• Pepper Green Estate Cellar Door, Tasting Room – 13 Market Pl, Berrima NSW 2577
• Berkelouw Book Barn at Bendooley Estate – a paradise for book lovers, authors, artists and visitors. Built early last century, the iconic Book Barn is both the HQ of Berkelouw Books and the alluring centrepiece of Bendooley Estate. Dine amongst the books too!

• Go wine tasting at Bendooley Estate Cellar Door.
• If you’re into ancestry or general history, check out the Berrima Cemetery.
• The Surveyor General Inn: Built-in 1834, and one of the oldest buildings here. 34 Old Hume Highway, Bundanoon
• St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church: An 1939 beautiful heritage-listed church, Berrima
• Berrima District Museum: Discover fascinating exhibits showcasing the town’s convict history, early settlers, and Aboriginal culture. Old Hume Highway, Berrima.
• Old Berrima Gaol (Jail): Built in 1836, this historic jail (recently sold to developers and currently closed) offers a glimpse into Berrima’s convict past. Opposite the main shops.
• The Berrima War Memorial, at the village entrance,
• The Maltings: This 19th-century building was once a brewery. Today it hosts events, art exhibitions, and the occasional market on the Old Hume Highway.
• Berrima Public School: This little school opened in 1851, and is one of the oldest public schools in NSW and still serving the local community. 20-22 Argyle Street, Berrima
• Berrima Memorial Hall: A heritage building used for community events, concerts, and local gatherings –  an important part of the Berrima’s cultural life. 17-19 Old Hume Highway, Berrima
• Berrima Court House: This 19th-century courthouse is one of the best-preserved colonial buildings in NSW and a must-see for history buffs. Join the immersive courtroom experience plus there are tours and historical exhibits. The Old Hume Highway, Berrima

Good Eats around Berrima, NSW: Top Cafes, Pubs & Restaurants

• Berrima Bakery: famous for its delicious pastries, pies, and sweet treats. The star of the show is their famous meat pies. You’ll also find an array of cakes, tarts, and fresh bread. 46 Old Hume Highway, Berrima
• Bendooley Estate Cafe – Try their delicious Pineapple Tea and a wicked slice of chocolate cake shaped like Toblerone!

• The Royal Hotel: It’s a cosy, historic pub with hearty meals and a relaxed atmosphere. The menu features pub classics such as steaks, schnitzels, and fish and chips. It’s also family friendly. 39 Old Hume Highway, Berrima
• Briars Inn, Burradoo. A family friendly pub with beer garden. We recommend their delicious handmade pizza from the wood-fired oven. Or have a drink in the historic Throsby’s Bar.
• The Courtyard Cafe: A family operated and kid friendly cafe with a cosy wood fire in winter and homey wood tables. They do simple but tasty soups, pies, toasties etc at a reasonable price. Coffee is excellent. They cater for large groups and are Vegetarian friendly with Vegan and Gluten free options. 20 Old Hume Highway, Berrima
• Cupcake Co – An award winning cupcake boutique and tea house. 2/30 Old Hume Hwy, Berrima

• The Courtyard Café: Serves up a variety of coffees, cakes, and light meals. There’s a nice garden setting as well. 17 Old Hume Highway, Berrima
• Berrima General Store & Cafe: A little gem selling local produce, fresh fruit and vegetables and homemade treats, perfect for a picnic. 1/13 Old Hume Highway, Berrima.

Foodies around Berrima, NSW: Fine Dining and Gourmet Food and Wine

• Eschalot Restaurant: This is French-inspired cuisine and  a sophisticated, contemporary dining experience. Eschalot offers a menu filled with exquisite dishes like duck, lamb, and fresh seafood, all prepared with the finest local and seasonal ingredients. The wine list features carefully selected Australian wines to complement each dish. 25 Eschalot Lane, Berrima (just outside the village).
• Berrima Vault House is built on a long standing heritage of hospitality and public spaces. Today it offers 5 star dining experiences in ‘Taylor’s Crown Inn’ with breakfast lunch and dinner being served.
• The Mill Café: offers an elevated café dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal produce. The menu features a mix of modern Australian dishes and gourmet breakfast options, from house-made pastries to creative salads and seasonal specials. 3/5 Old Hume Highway, Berrima
• The Secret Garden Café: In a beautiful garden setting, offering fresh, wholesome meals and a tempting selection of homemade cakes and desserts.  3/9 Bendooley Street, Berrima
• Gumnut Patisserie: There’s always a queue out the door here. It specialises in handmade pastries, cakes, and French-style patisserie done super well. Think decadent chocolate éclairs, excellent tarts and macarons.
• Eling Forest Winery: A gourmet food and wine experience set amongst a vineyard landscapes. Tastings are paired with a meal. 91 Berrima Road, Berrima
• Josh’s Café: A super popular cafe with a foodies vibe. It’s innovative, modern Australian cuisine and creative drinks. 1/25 Old Hume Highway, Berrima
• Bendooley Estate Restaurant: In a stunning vineyard setting with fresh, local produce. Enjoy a refined dining experience paired with wines from the estate’s cellar. 2920 Old Hume Highway, Berrima

Retail: Antiques and Art Galleries 

• Berrima Village Antiques: A must-visit for antique lovers, this shop is full of hidden gems, furniture pieces and vintage finds. 28 Old Hume Highway, Berrima
• Whitewall Arts Project Gallery -They showcase contemporary art by independent Australian and international artists. It’s ever changing here with seasonal exhibitions and in house creative workshops.
• Berkelouw Book Barn Bookshop & Cafe.
• The Milk Factory Gallery and Exhibition Space: See mixed artists exhibit, always changing. The Gallery Shop is full of amazing works for sale with an eclectic mix of categories from sculptures, to jewellery, cards, wall hangings and more. There’;s also a cafe coming soon! 33 Station Street (rear), Bowral NSW (9 min from Berrima).

Retail: Local Finds in Berrima, NSW

• Berrima Patchwork: A quirky shop offering handmade jewellery, art, quilting fabrics and patchwork patterns. 9 Old Hume Highway, Berrima
• The Australian Alpaca Barn: It’s a family owned business specialising in quality products made from alpaca fibre grown in Australia and manufactured in either, Australia, New Zealand or Peru. High quality alpaca everything from alpaca coats, sweaters, shawls, scarves, gloves, beanies, socks, throw rugs, quilts, bedding, knitting yarn, teddies, silver jewellery and more.
• Mrs Oldbucks Pantry: Honey, jams, marmalades, jellies, truffle oils and aiolis, mustards, butters, vinegars and delicious gourmet goodies. Plus, there’s classic sweets and treats and the nostalgia of childhood with our classic sweets and treats, and premium loose leaf teas from the world’s best tea-growing regions. You’ll be in Mrs Oldbucks longer than anticipated!
• Willow and Chai Gift Tea Room and Cafe: A fun and eclectic shop/cafe with everything from gifts to snacks, ice creams, Devonshire Tea – fluffy scones with fresh cream and jam (they do delicious Vegan Devonshire Teas as well). Hot tip – got a dog? head out the back to the secret garden – want somewhere secluded? Head inside the lower level for a cosy nook amongst the books and amazing gifts. 9 Old Hume Highway, Berrima.
• Lolly Swagman: You’ll find all sorts of modern sweets and fudge and melt in your mouth goodies from your morsels from your childhood. 11B Old Hume Hwy, Berrima

If you’ve decided Berrima sounds like an amazing holiday destination, why not browse our Stays with a WOW options in the Southern Tablelands.