Bowral and Beyond by Rail

This morning after breakfast, we’ll board our private coach and step back in time on a heritage walking tour of nearby Berrima, one of Australia’s best-preserved Georgian villages. Established in the 1830s on the banks of the Wingecarribee River, Berrima was once a bustling administrative centre for the colony and today its wide streets, sandstone buildings and early colonial charm offer a vivid glimpse into 19th-century life. We’ll walk past historic inns, churches, the old courthouse and gaol, while hearing tales of convicts, settlers and bushrangers who helped shape the town’s character. The tour includes a visit to the Berrima District Museum, where thoughtfully curated displays bring the region’s rich social and industrial history to life, from early European settlement and river trade to wartime internment and domestic life in the Highlands.

Next, our private coach will take us to nearby Retford Park, the former home of philanthropist James Fairfax AC.  Built in 1887 by the Hordern family on land originally granted by Governor Macquarie in 1821, and renowned for its elegant Victorian Italianate mansion, meticulously designed gardens, and significant art collections, the property was lavishly redesigned by Fairfax in the 1960s.  Upon his death in 2017, Fairfax ensured its legacy by gifting it to the National Trust, complete with endowments for ongoing maintenance. Here, we’ll enjoy a guided visit of the grand “Portuguese Pink” mansion before having some free time to explore the wonderful gardens or enjoy lunch at leisure in the cafe. 

From here, the choice is yours – you can choose between visiting the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame, which celebrates Australia’s cricketing icon Sir Donald Bradman and the history of the game; or take a peaceful stroll through Corbett Gardens, a historic public park known for its seasonal plantings, manicured lawns, flower beds, mature trees, and central water fountain; or take the opportunity to explore Bowral at your own pace, perhaps browsing boutiques or relaxing in a café. There will be transport available to accommodate your choice.

After some time to relax at our hotel, we’ll head out for a special evening at a premier cool-climate winery on the outskirts of town for a seasonal dinner in the warmth of the restaurant.

Overnight: Berida Hotel, Bowral  (B,D)

This morning is yours to enjoy a relaxed winter morning and early lunch in Bowral in any way you choose – browse the town’s charming boutiques, get lost in a bookshop, conjure up knitting designs at the charming wool shop, cosy up in a café, or simply unwind at the hotel.  

In the early afternoon, we’ll regroup and head to Thirlmere, home of the NSW Rail Museum, featuring Australia’s largest collection of historic rolling stock and a must-visit for anyone curious about the role of rail in shaping New South Wales. Operated by Transport Heritage NSW, it’s a living tribute to over 170 years of rail history, with a collection spanning the steam, diesel and electric eras. You’ll enjoy a guided introduction to the museum’s vast collection of historic locomotives, carriages, wagons, rail memorabilia and artefacts. See rare examples of steam engines that once hauled passengers and freight across the state, step inside the Governor-General’s luxury carriage, and discover how rail shaped settlement, commerce and daily life in NSW. Highlights include the iconic Locomotive 3801, the Prison Van and detailed railway station recreations that bring the past to life.  Then, enjoy a steam train ride through the Southern Highlands landscape, experiencing the nostalgic sounds and sensations of travel in a bygone era. The carriages, many lovingly restored to their former glory, recall the heyday of rail as the lifeblood of regional Australia. 

Later in the afternoon, we’ll return to our hotel to freshen up before venturing to The Robertson Hotel, an elegant Highlands retreat with a storied history and roaring fireplaces perfect for the season, to celebrate the spirit of winter with a festive “Christmas in July” dinner including drinks. Expect hearty fare, warm company and a touch of fun, with guests being encouraged to don their ugliest or funniest Christmas jumper for the occasion.

Overnight: Berida Hotel, Bowral (B,D)

This morning after breakfast and check out, we’ll bid farewell to Bowral, load our luggage onto our private coach and take a short drive to Golden Vale Homestead, a magnificent c1870 Georgian property nestled in the green pastures of Sutton Forest. From a humble land grant in 1821, Golden Vale has witnessed 150 years of elegant living. Today the homestead features an extensive collection of furniture and art, as well as outbuildings dating from the nineteenth century, including stables and fully equipped four stand woolshed. Now under the stewardship of the National Trust, this rare surviving pastoral property offers a window into early colonial life, with its beautifully preserved interiors, sweeping gardens and stories of pioneering families. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of the house and grounds, followed by a light early lunch served in the surroundings of this elegant country estate.

In the early afternoon, we’ll transfer back to Bowral Station and board the intercity train for the return journey to Sydney’s Central Station. Sit back and relax as the train winds through the Highlands one final time, pulling into Central Station just after 4pm.

End of Tour (B, L)