Winter is here and it’s time for the mercury to finally drop. So, locate your favourite flannel and pair of uggs and get ready for crackling fires, peppery pinot noirs and freshly baked pies. These are all great spots, so book ahead and you don’t have to wait until next year!
We’re lucky to live within a couple of hours’ drive from some of Australia’s best winter holiday spots. Here’s a list of some favourite areas and places to stay, along with a few activities and must-dos nearby.
Words Matt Castell, curatedtravel.com.au
Winter is here and it’s time for the mercury to finally drop. So, locate your favourite flannel and pair of uggs and get ready for crackling fires, peppery pinot noirs and freshly baked pies. These are all great spots, so book ahead and you don’t have to wait until next year!
Bilpin, Blue Mountains
Often overlooked for other towns, like Katoomba or Blackheath, Bilpin lies on the Bells Line of Road, the original route over the mountains. The area is home to many orchards, mostly apples, a lot of which gets turned into delicious ciders. Check out Hillbilly Cider (try the woodfire pizzas) and Bilpin Cider and grab a few takeaways to sip next to a warm fire later. Stay at the award-winning Love Cabins and wake up late, to the sound of the forest and breathtaking views.
Jenolan Caves, Blue Mountains
I recommend taking the southern route, via Goulburn which is a much nicer route compared to going via Sydney. You’ll also pass through historic Taralga, which is worth a pit-stop for a drink and a pie at the “haunted” Argyle Inn. Give yourself at least half a day to explore the caves and make sure to pre-book one of the nine or more tours on option.
Stay at Caves House, which is at the caves site. Breakfast and dinner are included in your rate, and you might be invited on an exclusive night caves tour, only available to overnight guests. On your way home, try a spot of wild mushroom foraging in Oberon State Forest. Winter is the perfect time to find pine mushrooms (Lactarius Deliciousus). Only consume mushrooms identified by an expert and remember, if in doubt, throw it out.
Cupitt’s Estate, Ulladulla
A destination itself, what started as a winery has turned into a delightful playground for food and drink connoisseurs. You can easily spend two nights here and not leave the property, although nearby Milton and Mollymook may beckon for more eats, famous pie shops and quirky artisan shops.
Cupitt’s Estate has cute and cosy cabins on-site which come with a delicious house made breakfast hamper. After brekkie and a long hot bath on your private balcony overlooking the gum trees, wander over to the cellar door to taste craft beers, wines, and cheeses, all made from local ingredients. A la carte, farm to table dining is open for lunch daily and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday. Don’t rush out the door on Sunday morning though as they host live music on the lawn every Friday and Sunday.
Berrima, Southern Highlands
Only 45 minutes from Wollongong, Berrima is the jewel of the Southern Highlands. Berrima was established around 1831 and is one of NSW’s best preserved historic villages. History buffs will get their kicks at the Berrima Courthouse and Gaol which you can explore on a self-tour.
Exploring is thirsty work, so park up for a schooner at the Surveyor General Inn, what is said to be the oldest continually operating hotel in Australia – they serve a decent pub meal too! Pastry lovers can keep their cockles warm, with five cafes, bakeries, and pie shops all on the main street and wine lovers will have their fill at around a dozen wineries in under 15 minutes’ drive.
Bendooley Estate boasts great wine, a fantastic restaurant, and a book barn to boot (grab a novel to tuck into next to the fire later). For a more intimate tasting experience, try Tertini Wines, tucked away on a quaint country road with amazing hosts. Stay at Oldbury Cottage and remember to book a romantic dinner for two at Eschalot.
Tumut, Riverina
Just south of Gundagai, Tumut lies on the shore of the Tumut River, at the base of the Snowy Mountains. You can’t get more winter than this. If conditions are right, head another 90 minutes down the road to Selwyn Snow Resort. The resort was sadly lost during the 2020 bushfires and is on track for reopening this season. After a long day of sledding and/or skiing, head back to Tumut and grab a table at Tumut River Brewing Co for a tasting session, burgers and if you’re lucky – live music. Stay at Tumut Log Cabins, a perfect spot on the edge of town to relax.
For help planning your next getaway, get in touch at matt@curatedtravel.com.au
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