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, Berrima is 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 quaint streets 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 or 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, NSW.
• 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.
• Thai Village Massage & Spa Bowral: Traditional Thai massage. 14 Wingecarribee St Shop 6B, Bowral, NSW
• Glam Bowral: They have an extensive range of beauty, skincare, make-up and cosmetics. You can have a full service with facial, medi spa and body treatments by a very qualified team of Make up Artists, Cosmetic Specialists and Senior Therapists. Plus, they’ll naturally give you expert treatments and skincare advice. 325 Bong Bong St, Bowral, NSW.
• Sculptress Day Spa: traditional This place has relocated and are now on Shangri La, Bundanoon. 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. It’s all amazing,  and the precise location is emailed on booking. (way to keep that element of mystery!)

Explore and Discover Things to Do around Berrima, NSW

Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Trips:

• 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.
• 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.
• As you stroll through Australia’s most popular Georgian town, take 1.5 hours out with Berrima Walking Tours who offer insights and tales into the rich past of Berrima. Bespoke tours are also available.
• Berrima River Walk: This a lovely scenic 1.8km (about an hour) walk along the riverbank trail of the Wingecarribee. Follow the signs from the Berrima Picnic and Camping ground (and yes, there’s loos). You’ll eventually notice interesting  historical photographs as this area was once the site of a German Internment Camp from 1915 to 1919. You’ll eventually get to where they held amazing regattas back in the day too and today, you may see local kids enjoying the rope swing into the cool water. Remember to wear joggers or hiking boots as the path is through bushland and can be slippery after rains. Access by car is available via Oxley Street, Berrima, NSW

Day Trips from Berrima: Mittagong, Bowral, Bundanoon 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.
• 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.

Historic and Cultural Highlights

• Berrima Historic Walk: Take the self-guided walk around the town that lets you explore Berrima’s rich history.
• If you’re into ancestry or general history, check out the Berrima Cemetery.
• The Surveyor General Inn: Built-in 1834, this inn is one of Berrima’s oldest buildings and is still standing strong. 34 Old Hume Highway, Berrima
• St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church: An 1939 beautiful heritage-listed church with stunning stained glass windows and peaceful surroundings. Corner of Church and Hume Streets, Berrima
• Berrima District Museum: Discover fascinating exhibits showcasing the town’s convict history, early settlers, and Aboriginal culture. Old Hume Highway, Berrima.
• Historic Streets of Berrima: Walk along the Old Hume Highway to see colonial buildings and unique shops.
• Old Berrima Gaol (Jail): Built in 1836, this historic jail (recently sold to developers) offers a glimpse into Berrima’s convict past. On the Old Hume Highway, Berrima opposite the main shops.
• The Berrima War Memorial: Check it out at the village entrance on the Old Hume Highway, Berrima. You’ll see the locals honoured who served in both World Wars.
• 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. The building still serves the local community. 20-22 Argyle Street, Berrima
• Berrima Memorial Hall: It’s 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 in 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
• 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
• 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
• 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 in 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, a freshly baked croissants, or show-stopping 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: This place is multifunctional. It’s an antiquarian bookshop by day, as well as housing the Bendooley Estate Restaurant and Cafe. Weddings and Special Events take place here as well. Bendooley, 3020 Old Hume Hwy, Berrima
• 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.

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