Wondering where to stay in the Southern Highlands of NSW? Choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference — whether you’re looking for a cosy boutique retreat, a romantic country escape or a relaxing weekend away from Sydney.
Just 90 minutes from Sydney, the Southern Highlands is one of the most popular destinations for a quick escape, so finding the right accommodation (and booking early) is key.
I was brought up in the Southern Highlands and love how easy it is to escape Sydney for a relaxing weekend to visit my family and friends.
You have options to self-drive or catch a train. There are railway stations at Bowral, Moss Vale and Bundanoon.
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Here are some of the best places to stay in Bowral, Moss Vale and Bundanoon, based on location, comfort and overall experience.
💡 Tips for Booking
The Southern Highlands is a popular weekend getaway from Sydney, so accommodation can book out quickly — especially during autumn and spring.
👉 Compare prices for your travel dates before booking
If it’s your first visit, we’d recommend staying in Bowral for convenience.
Where to Stay in the Southern Highlands
Bowral
- Best for: First-time visitors
- Close to cafes, restaurants and shopping
- Great base for exploring
👉 Choose Bowral if you want convenience and walkability
Moss Vale
- Best for: Quiet, relaxing escapes
- Surrounded by countryside
- Ideal for a slower pace
👉 Choose Moss Vale if you want peace, space and nature
Bundanoon
- Best for: Nature, walking trails and a peaceful escape
- Surrounded by a national park and bushland
- Ideal for a relaxing getaway with a touch of luxury
👉 Choose Bundanoon if you want a tranquil retreat, beautiful scenery and a true escape from the city
💡 Tips for Booking Accommodation
- The Southern Highlands is a popular weekend destination, especially from Sydney
- Book early for peak seasons (autumn & spring)
- Midweek stays often offer better availability and pricing
👉 Compare prices for your travel dates before booking
Where To Stay in Bowral
Berida Hotel
- Best for: Boutique style in a central location
- Why stay: A stylish and comfortable stay within walking distance to Bowral’s cafes, shops and attractions
- Good to know: Great base for exploring the Southern Highlands
👉 View latest prices and availability
Berida Hotel is a fantastic choice if you want to be close to everything. Located just a short walk from Bowral’s cafes, shops and local attractions, it offers the perfect base for exploring the Southern Highlands.
With its boutique feel, comfortable rooms and welcoming atmosphere, Berida Hotel is ideal for couples or travellers who prefer convenience without compromising on style.
Why we love it:
- Central Bowral location
- Easy walk to cafes and shops
- Comfortable and stylish rooms
- Head to Dirty Jane’s – a vintage lover’s paradise
- For dinner – Berida Manor’s own restaurant (Bistro Sociale) and bar (Aspinalls). Ensure you book your table at Bistro Sociale well in advance
👉 View latest prices and availability
Peppers Craigieburn
- Best for: A classic Southern Highlands escape with heritage charm
- Location: Centennial Road, Bowral
- Style: Elegant country manor with old-world character
Peppers Craigieburn is a beautiful heritage property that captures the timeless charm of the Southern Highlands. Set on expansive grounds just outside Bowral, it offers a peaceful retreat with a refined, country-house feel.
Originally built as a private residence, the property features traditional architecture, cosy interiors and sweeping views across the surrounding landscape. It’s an ideal choice for travellers looking to slow down, unwind and enjoy a more classic Highlands experience.
Why we love it:
- Elegant heritage setting with plenty of character
- Quiet location just minutes from Bowral
- Perfect for a relaxed, slower-paced getaway
- Close to one of the best wineries in Bowral – Centennial Vineyards, which is known for its cold climate wines
- We have stayed in three different types of rooms available, and love the decor and layout of each room
- We have enjoyed excellent meals at their Hickorys Restaurant and Bar
👉 Check availability and best rates here
Where To Stay in Moss Vale
Moss Manor
- Best for: Boutique luxury and a unique, design-led stay
- Location: Bowral
- Style: Art-filled boutique accommodation with a contemporary edge
Moss Manor offers something a little different in the Southern Highlands — a stylish, boutique stay that blends luxury with creativity. Each space is thoughtfully designed, with curated artwork and interiors that give the property a distinctive personality.
Perfect for travellers who appreciate design and a more intimate experience, Moss Manor feels both sophisticated and welcoming. Its central Bowral location also makes it easy to explore the town’s cafes, galleries and shops.
Why we love it:
- Unique, design-focused interiors
- More intimate boutique experience
- Great location for exploring Bowral
👉 View latest prices and availability
Peppers Manor House
- Best for: couples/luxury weekend
- Why stay: historic charm, gardens, peaceful setting
- Set in beautifully landscaped gardens, Peppers Manor House offers a peaceful and refined escape in the Southern Highlands. This charming heritage property is ideal for travellers looking to unwind, enjoy nature and experience a touch of country luxury.
- The property features classic interiors, open fireplaces and serene surroundings — making it perfect for a romantic weekend or a quiet getaway.
- Why we love it:
- Quiet and relaxing location in Sutton Forest just outside Moss Vale
- Beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces
- Perfect for a special occasion stay
- Close to our favourite bakery, wine bar and deli – Flour Bar
- 👉 Check availability and best rates here
Where To Stay in Bundanoon
Osborn House
- Best for: A luxury boutique escape and indulgent weekend away
- Location: Bundanoon
- Style: Stylish retreat combining modern design with natural surroundings
Osborn House is one of the Southern Highlands’ most sought-after boutique stays, offering a beautifully curated experience that blends luxury with a relaxed country atmosphere. Set in a tranquil location surrounded by nature, it’s the perfect place to disconnect and unwind.
With its sophisticated interiors, excellent dining and attention to detail, Osborn House delivers a more elevated experience — ideal for special occasions or those wanting something a little more indulgent.
Why we love it:
- Premium boutique experience with a luxury feel
- We are fans of the artist Jai Vasicek, who created his unique works of art whilst in situ back in 2022
- Peaceful setting surrounded by nature
- Perfect for a special occasion or indulgent stay
- Both dining options – Georges and Fire Kitchen are a must when you stay. Bookings are required for Fire Kitchen
👉 Check availability and best rates here
Planning your stay? Compare the best accommodation deals here
| Hotel | Location | Best For | Price | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peppers Manor House | Moss Vale | Luxury retreat | $$$ | Check rates |
| Berida Hotel | Bowral | Central boutique | $$$ | View deals |
| Peppers Craigieburn | Bowral | Heritage stay | $$$ | Check rates |
| Moss Manor | Bowral | Unique boutique | $$$$ | View deals |
| Osborn House | Bundanoon | Premium luxury escape | $$$$ | Check rates |
Ready to Book Your Southern Highlands Escape?
Whether you’re looking for a luxury retreat or a boutique stay close to town, the Southern Highlands has something for everyone.
👉 Find the best accommodation deals in the Southern Highlands here 👇
If you are looking for things to do in the Southern Highlands our article Best Southern Highlands Getaway has loads of tips for you and places to visit.
General Travel Information
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