Cool Temperate Rainforests
The Southern Highlands is renowned for beautiful temperate rainforests, found across the sheltered gullies and on the slopes of the Great Dividing Range. Here rainforests thrive in areas with rainfall and relatively mild temperatures, creating a cool and moist microclimate that supports the growth of a diverse range of plant species. Many of the plant species found in the cool temperate rainforests of the Southern Highlands are ancient relics from a time when Australia was part of the supercontinent Gondwana. These living fossils provide valuable insights into the continent's geological history and evolutionary past.
Notable species across areas such as Morton National Park include the smooth bark and glossy green leaves of the Coachwood Tree, the rough tree fern (Cyathea australis) and the soft tree fern (Dicksonia antarctica) along with native violets, flannel flowers, waratahs, Old Man Banksia (Banksia serrata) and the Mountain Devil (Lambertia formosa).
Rural Landcapes & Charming Towns
The region is characterised by picturesque rolling hills, verdant valleys, dotted with farms, vineyards, and orchards, taking advantage of the region's fertile soils and temperate climate. The fertile soils support agriculture, including dairy farming, sheep grazing, and fruit cultivation. Farmers in the region grow a variety of fruits and vegetables, including apples, berries, cherries, and stone fruits.
Additionally, the area is home to numerous vineyards and wineries, producing cool-climate wines such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. Many farms open their doors to visitors, offering farm tours, pick-your-own experiences, farm stays, and farm-to-table dining experiences. This allows visitors to connect with local farmers, learn about sustainable agriculture practices, and experience rural life firsthand.
The region is dotted with endearing historic villages and towns, each with its own unique character and heritage. Places like Bowral, Mittagong, and Berrima feature beautifully preserved colonial architecture, boutique shops, and quaint cafes. Additionally, the southern highlands are renowned for their stunning gardens, including the Tulip Time Festival and Corbett Gardens in Bowral.
Riverine Environment
Several rivers and waterways play a crucial role in shaping the region's landscape and ecology. The Wingecarribee River is one of the main rivers which flows through the towns of Bowral, Moss Vale, and Bowral before joining the Wollondilly River near Bullio. This river is a vital habitat for a wide range of wildlife, contributing to the ecological diversity and health of the Southern Highlands region including a wide variety of birds such as herons, egrets, swans and ducks. Below the surface, the river supports populations of native fish species, including Australian bass, trout, and freshwater eels along with Eastern Water Dragons and Eastern Long-necked Turtles.
It is also an extremely important habitat for the Platypus which are often spotted swimming in its waters, particularly in the early morning or late evening. For this reason, it is a key observation point for the Southern Highlands Platypus Conservation Project, which aims to gain a better understanding of platypus distribution, habitat, status and threats throughout the Southern Highlands.
