Where to Find the Best Boutique Accommodation in the Southern Highlands of Australia

Just a 90-minute drive from Sydney or a couple of hours from Canberra, the Southern Highlands of New South Wales is one of Australia’s most charming weekend getaway destinations. With its rolling countryside, cool-climate vineyards, heritage villages and thriving local food scene, the region has become synonymous with luxury escapes and boutique accommodation that blends comfort, character and style.

Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, a girls’ weekend, or simply a change of scenery, here’s where, and how to find the best southern highlands accommodation.

The Best Towns for Boutique Stays

The Southern Highlands is a collection of picturesque towns, each offering its own distinct personality. For boutique accommodation, you can’t go wrong focusing on Bowral, Berrima, Robertson, and Moss Vale.

Bowral is the region’s stylish heart, filled with antique stores, art galleries, cafés and manicured gardens. It’s ideal if you prefer to be close to dining and shopping while still surrounded by country tranquillity.

Berrima offers historic charm in spades, with sandstone cottages, colonial architecture, and riverside walks that feel straight out of a storybook.

If you’re after peace and quiet, Robertson — known for its misty mornings and lush green hills — is perfect for a rural retreat. Moss Vale, on the other hand, combines small-town character with easy access to golf courses, wineries, and nature reserves.

Each town has its own range of boutique hotels, country houses, and self-contained cottages, making it easy to find something that suits your mood and budget.

Types of Boutique Accommodation in the Highlands

The Southern Highlands is known for its variety of boutique stays, from elegant manor hotels to charming farm cottages.

• Historic country houses: Perfect for couples or honeymooners, these properties offer a taste of old-world grandeur with fireplaces, garden views and high teas. Milton Park Country House Hotel & Spa in Bowral is a shining example — complete with manicured gardens, a luxurious spa and traditional décor.
• Cottages and private retreats: Scattered across the region, you’ll find self-contained cottages ideal for privacy and relaxation. Bendooley Estate in Berrima is famous for its Book Barn, fine dining and lakefront cottages that combine rustic charm with modern amenities.
• Boutique inns and designer hotels: For travellers who want personalised service and a touch of sophistication, boutique inns and small luxury hotels are scattered throughout the region. Many feature on-site restaurants, spa facilities, and beautifully curated interiors.

How to Find the Best Boutique Accommodation

With so many beautiful places to choose from, it’s worth taking a moment to decide what type of experience you’re after.

• Choose your vibe: Do you want a heritage-style stay with open fires and garden views? Or are you after a modern boutique hotel with spa treatments and fine dining?
• Consider location: Bowral offers easy access to shops and cafés; Berrima is best for historic ambience; Robertson provides a tranquil, nature-filled escape.
• Check amenities: Boutique doesn’t always mean full-service. Some properties include breakfast or spa access, while others are completely self-contained.
• Book early: The region is popular during autumn (for vibrant foliage) and spring (for the famous Tulip Time Festival), so rooms fill up fast.

Recommended Boutique Stays

To help narrow your search, here are a few well-loved boutique stays worth considering:

• Milton Park Country House Hotel & Spa, Bowral: A grand country manor with luxurious rooms, fine dining and an indulgent spa experience. Perfect for romantic getaways.
• Bendooley Estate, Berrima: Known for its Book Barn restaurant and charming cottages overlooking the lake. A must for wine lovers and foodies.
• The Loch, Berrima: A working farm that combines luxury accommodation with paddock-to-plate dining experiences.
• Osborn House, Bundanoon: A stylishly restored 1890s guesthouse offering a blend of heritage elegance and contemporary design.

Final Tips for Booking

When planning your boutique stay in the Southern Highlands:

• Book directly through the hotel’s website for the best deals and exclusive packages.
• Look for seasonal offers such as spa packages, degustation dinners or midweek discounts.
• Call ahead if you have special requests, most boutique hosts are happy to personalise your experience.

The Perfect Country Escape

The Southern Highlands offers a rare mix of rural serenity, gourmet dining, and boutique luxury, all within easy reach of the city. Whether you’re sipping wine by the fire, wandering through gardens in Bowral, or curling up in a lakeside cottage in Berrima, the region’s boutique accommodation promises an unforgettable stay.

For your next weekend away, skip the big hotel chains and embrace the charm, intimacy and warmth of the Southern Highlands’ boutique retreats. You’ll return relaxed, inspired, and already planning your next visit.