Berrima Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Berrima, Australia with this comprehensive travel guide including information about where to stay, what to do, and how to get around town.


Introduction to Berrima

Located in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia, Berrima is a charming historic town that offers a unique glimpse into colonial Australia. With its picturesque cottages, quaint tea rooms, and historic buildings, this town is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, culture, and nature. In this travel guide, we’ll explore all the best things to do in Berrima, including where to stay, what to eat and drink, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Berrima

Are you visiting Berrima for the first time and wondering what to do? Here is a list of some must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Berrima Courthouse: Built-in 1835, this courthouse is a reminder of Australia’s colonial history. Today, it houses a museum with exhibits about the region’s history.
  • Harper’s Mansion: A beautifully preserved Georgian house that dates back to the 1830s. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and see what life was like for a wealthy Australian family in the 19th century.
  • Surveyor General Inn: Established in 1834, the Surveyor General Inn is Australia’s oldest continuously licensed inn. Today, it operates as a tavern and restaurant, where visitors can sample traditional Australian fare.

Natural Attractions of Berrima: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Berrima River Walk: A scenic walk that takes visitors along the Wingecarribee River, providing beautiful views of the surrounding bushland.
  • Mount Gibraltar: A popular hiking spot, Mount Gibraltar offers panoramic views of the town and its surrounds.
  • Berrima Reserve: A relaxing green space that features picnic areas, walking trails, and playgrounds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Berrima

Are you looking for some outdoor adventure during your trip to Berrima? Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in and around town:

  • Berrima River Walk: A 2.5 km walk that takes visitors along the Wingecarribee River, providing beautiful views of the surrounding bushland.
  • Mount Gibraltar Summit Walk: A 5 km hike up to the summit of Mount Gibraltar, offering panoramic views of Berrima and the Southern Highlands.
  • Berrima to Bowral Bike Ride: A picturesque 18 km ride connecting Berrima to the nearby town of Bowral, known for its beautiful gardens and quaint boutiques.

Best Things to Do in Berrima: Activities and Tours

There’s always something to do in Berrima, whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature. Here are some of the best things to do in Berrima:

  • Take a guided tour of the Berrima Courthouse Museum to learn about the town’s history and colonial past.
  • Visit Harper’s Mansion and admire its well-preserved Georgian architecture.
  • Have a pint at the Surveyor General Inn, Australia’s oldest continuously licensed inn.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through Berrima Reserve and enjoy a picnic with family and friends.
  • Explore Southern Highlands’ well-curated wine scene with a half-day or full-day guided wine tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Berrima

Are you planning to spend more than a day in Berrima? Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long visit:

Day 1

  • Arrive in Berrima and check into your hotel.
  • Stroll through town and explore its quaint shops and boutiques.
  • Visit Surveyor General Inn for dinner.

Day 2

  • Take a guided tour of the Berrima Courthouse Museum.
  • Visit the Harper’s Mansion and take a guided tour of the house.
  • Have lunch at one of the local cafes or tea rooms.
  • Take a scenic drive to Bowral and visit the Bradman Museum.

Day 3

  • Go hiking through Mount Gibraltar or enjoy a bike ride through the countryside.
  • Have a picnic lunch at Berrima Reserve.

Day 4

  • Take a half-day guided wine tour of Southern Highlands’ wineries and vineyards.
  • Have dinner at one of the region’s fine dining restaurants.

Day 5

  • Explore the charming village of Bundanoon and visit Morton National Park.
  • Have lunch at one of the local cafes or picnic areas.
  • Visit the Glow Worm Glen on your way back to Berrima.

Day 6

  • Visit nearby Fitzroy Falls and enjoy nature walks and scenic views of the waterfall.
  • Have lunch at the Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre or bring a picnic.

Day 7

  • Spend a relaxing day in Berrima and visit the local artisan shops and galleries.
  • Have a farewell dinner at one of Berrima’s excellent restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Berrima

Berrima has a rich food and drink scene that draws inspiration from the region’s colonial past and natural abundance. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kangaroo Filet: A lean and flavorful cut of kangaroo meat, often served with roasted vegetables and a red wine jus.
  • Crispy Chicken Skin Salad: A salad made with crispy chicken skin, rocket leaves, and shaved parmesan, served with a citrus vinaigrette.
  • Salt and Pepper Squid: A popular Australian seafood dish made with tender squid rings coated in a spicy batter and served with lemon wedges.

Local Beverages

  • Southern Highlands’ Wine: This region is known for producing rich, full-bodied wines, particularly cool-climate varietals such as pinot noir and chardonnay.
  • Bundanoon Highland Spring Water: Sourced from the pristine waters of Morton National Park, Bundanoon Highland Spring Water is a popular beverage in the region.
  • Australian Craft Beer: Berrima has a thriving craft beer scene, with several microbreweries producing unique and interesting brews.

Where to Stay in Berrima: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Looking for a cozy place to stay during your visit to Berrima? Here are some suggestions:

  • The Berida Hotel: A historic hotel dating back to the 1870s, the Berida Hotel offers luxurious accommodations and fine dining in the heart of Berrima.
  • Bendooley Estate: A charming guesthouse located on a vineyard, Bendooley Estate offers cozy rooms and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The Loch Berrima: A boutique hotel with a unique colonial-inspired design, The Loch Berrima offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a beautiful garden.

What to Buy in Berrima: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for a special souvenir or gift to bring home from Berrima? Here are some ideas:

  • Handmade Pottery and Ceramics: Berrima has a thriving artisan community that produces beautiful pottery and ceramics that make for unique and special gifts.
  • Australian Wines: Southern Highlands is known for producing some of Australia’s finest wines.
  • Gallery Artwork: Berrima has several galleries that showcase the work of local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and other unique pieces.

Local Culture and Customs of Berrima

Berrima is a friendly and welcoming town, where locals are proud of their cultural heritage and eager to share it with visitors. When visiting Berrima, it’s important to observe the following customs and traditions:

  • Respect for Australian colonial history and culture
  • Respectful behavior towards locals and other visitors
  • Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but it’s acceptable to leave a 10% tip for excellent service.

Best Time to Visit Berrima

Berrima is a year-round destination, with each season offering its unique charms and attractions. However, the best time to visit Berrima is during spring and autumn (September-November and March-May), when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its most beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Berrima

When visiting Berrima, it’s important to observe the following Do’s and Don’ts:

Do:

  • Visit the Berrima Courthouse Museum and other historic sites in the town.
  • Explore the surrounding countryside and natural attractions.
  • Try traditional Australian dishes like kangaroo filet and salt and pepper squid.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the town’s cultural heritage and history.
  • Leave without trying some of the local wines or beers.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Berrima

Berrima is a safe town, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should still take standard precautions to ensure their safety:

  • Keep your valuables safe and secure at all times.
  • Be aware of your surroundings when walking alone at night.
  • Always lock your doors and windows when leaving your accommodation.

Health in Berrima

Berrima has excellent healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics, should you need medical attention. However, visitors should also take standard health precautions:

  • Always wear sunscreen when spending time outdoors.
  • Stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months.
  • Be aware of ticks and other biting insects in the countryside.

Getting to Berrima: Transportation Options and Logistics

Berrima is located approximately 120 km southwest of Sydney, making it easily accessible by car, bus, or train.

Airports Near Berrima

The nearest airport to Berrima is Sydney Kingsford-Smith International Airport, located approximately 120 km away. From the airport, visitors can rent a car or take a bus or train to Berrima.

Bus Stations Near Berrima

Berrima is served by several bus companies, including Premier Illawarra and Murrays Coaches, providing regular services to and from Sydney and other nearby towns.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car to reach Berrima, either from Sydney or from a nearby car rental company. Alternatively, visitors can take a train from Sydney to Bowral and then take a bus or taxi to Berrima, located only about 10 miles away.

How to Get Around in Berrima

Berrima is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. Alternatively, visitors can also rent a bike or drive a car to explore the surrounding countryside and natural attractions.

Where to Go Next from Berrima: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Need to plan your next adventure after Berrima? Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Bowral: A charming town known for its beautiful gardens and quaint boutiques.
  • Fitzroy Falls: A stunning waterfall and surrounding national park with hiking trails and picnic areas.
  • Kangaroo Valley: A scenic valley located just 30 minutes from Berrima, offering outdoor activities such as kayaking and fishing.

Conclusion

Berrima is a fantastic destination that offers a unique glimpse into colonial Australia. With its charming cottages, excellent cuisine, and natural beauty, Berrima is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, culture, or nature. With this comprehensive travel guide, you should be able to plan an unforgettable trip to this picturesque town.