Home to cricketer Don Bradman and Mary Poppins’ author, PL Travers, the Southern Highlands is home to the perfect getaway trip.

Located 90 minutes from Canberra, the Southern Highlands is known for its countryside, wineries and heritage sites.

From Mittagong to Moss Vale, Bundanoon and Burrawang, the region was home to cricketing legend Don Bradman, who grew up in Bowral.

From lolly shops, pies and bespoke jewellery, the Southern Highlands is  made for the great getaway trip.

An authentic dining experience for travellers 

Seeing themselves as “more than just a pie shop”, Heatherbrae’s Pies owner, Russell Cox, says they are a bakery experience as well as being an Australian icon that celebrates local, Australian-made and independent producers. 

“Our store is a working bakery, with our pastry chefs and apprentices working hard from early hours each morning to provide our customers with freshly made, freshly baked pies, sausage rolls and cakes,” he says. 

Starting 24 years ago in Heatherbrae, the pie shop has now opened across three locations, with its Sutton Forrest shop creating a “haven for travellers and locals alike”.

“We’re blessed to be situated against a backdrop of beautiful, rolling hills and trees, typical of the Southern Highlands region,” says Russell. 

On a mission to provide an “authentic Australian and independent dining option for travelling and local customers”, Russell says they welcome CityNews readers to come by for a break on their travels to enjoy some “real Australian food and hospitality”, all while supporting local and Australian producers. 

Inside the federation-style building, Russell says they use locally sourced meat and fresh produce as well as coffee from family owned company, Zentvelds, from the Byron Bay Hinterlands. 

With EV chargers available, Russell says their location is the perfect place for travellers to stop and enjoy a hot pie. 

Heatherbrae’s Pies. Sutton Forest Service Centre, Hume Highway, East Side, Sally’s Corner Road. Call 4878 9355 or visit heatherbraespies.com.au 

Jewellery craftsmanship at the heart of the Highlands

Nestled in the heart of Bowral, Bowral Fine Jewellery has become a beloved name among locals and visitors alike, says co-owner Rebecca Lee Bon. 

Known for its impeccable craftsmanship and personalised service, Rebecca says their family-run boutique brings a rare blend of artistry, tradition and genuine care to every piece they create.

Husband and wife duo, George Karvounis and Rebecca, both goldsmiths/jewellers, have built their reputation on the philosophy of using only the highest-quality materials and workmanship for their customers. 

“Whether it’s forging custom wedding bands, redesigning heirlooms, or repairing beloved jewellery, every item reflects our passion for excellence,” says Rebecca. 

Winner of a 2025 local business award and dozens of glowing reviews describing the business as “professional”, “kind” and “incredibly talented”, Rebecca says they pride themselves on creating breathtaking jewellery while also providing exceptional customer experiences. 

One reviewer wrote: “They turned my sentimental stones into a piece I’ll treasure forever, every step felt personal.” 

Using traditional hand-forging techniques, a skill rare in modern jewellery-making, all pieces are made onsite.

“This ensures heirloom-level durability and character that mass-produced jewellery simply can’t match,” says Rebecca. 

From engagement rings to bespoke remodelling, she says their dedication to their craft and community makes them so much more than a store. 

“It’s a cherished part of the Southern Highlands,” she says. 

“For locals looking for something truly special, it’s clear why this boutique has earned its place in the hearts of so many.” 

Bowral Fine Jewellery, Grand Arcade, Shop 7B/295 Bong Bong Street, Bowral NSW. Call 0435 039111 or visit bowralfinejewellery.com.au

A zesty, fruity and sweet pitstop for road trips

For nearly 30 years, Lolly Swagman has been part of the complete Southern Highlands experience, says owner Ian Richardson. 

Located in the very heart of Berrima, the store stocks more than 1300 different treats, with something to appeal to everyone. 

“Right now we are heading towards tulip time as everything comes out of winter and starts to blossom,” he says. 

“People are looking for more springtime flavours in the zestier, fruitier and tangier lollies and are less interested in the warm and cozy treats they went for in winter.” 

Featuring their own Mrs Swag’s Fudge, alongside an eye-watering selection of chocolates, hard candy and lollies, Ian says they stock everything from American Reese’s, Hershey’s and candy corn, as well as English bon bons and chocolates, sours and super sours, Dutch liquorice and Scottish tablet.

“We’ve just restocked an old favourite, chocolate-covered orange peels,” he says. 

“We’ve also got an expanding range of Japanese lollies, which are always hugely popular.” 

Ian says the store is a common stop on people’s trip to Berrima.

“We love saying hello to Canberrans who pop by on their trips,” he says. 

“Berrima is such a lovely place to visit all year round and we love being part of your holiday.” 

Lolly Swagman, 11 Old Hume Highway, Berrima. Call 4877 1137, or visit lollyswagman.com.au

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