Explore the Best Southern Highlands Spring Gardens and Tours
Highlands gardens just hit differently, especially in spring!
The ICONIC Tulip Time Festival is a must-visit, showcasing over 80,000 tulips and annuals perfectly planted in Corbett Gardens. It’s a favourite for all kinds of gardening aficionados, but still a fantastic experience for even the blackest of thumbs.
Retford Park Gardens are also gorgeous at this time of year. Visit the garden on its own or book in for a house tour as well. Pack a picnic and make a whole day of it.
Another garden we adore is Red Cow Farm in Sutton Forest. With 2.5 hectares of blooming beauty to explore.
And make sure to mark those calendars for the annual Bundanoon Garden Ramble [usually in late October] for a whole weekend of garden goodness plus market stalls in Bundanoon village.
Unmissable Spring Events in the Southern Highlands
Okay, we know we’ve already mentioned Tulip Time, but we’ve got to give it another shout-out, because it’s seriously an awesome event we look forward to every year! Flowers, markets, foodie-fun, and more. What’s not to love?
But spring in the Highlands has loads more to offer by way of fun events.
The Bong Bong Picnic Race Day is a chance to don fascinators or fancy shirts, mingle, and cheer trackside.
And the Bundanoon Garden Ramble will see our beautiful Bundanoon come alive.
Here’s a link to more sensational events happening this spring.
Southern Highlands Gardening Tips for Spring
In case it wasn’t clear, the Southern Highlands is a dream for gardening. Our distinct seasons help plants that don’t do well in other parts of Australia really flourish. So good!
If all this garden talk has got you itching to whip out the secateurs and pruning shears then check out our Essential Spring-Time Guide For Your Highlands Garden. Full of handy tips on what to plant, prune, and plan for this season.
And make sure to visit our directory of garden centres and nurseries, making it easier to add more greenery to your space.
Fresh Food and Dining in the Southern Highlands This Spring
Fresh, in-season food makes every recipe better. Fill your basket at a local market and start cooking.
Or skip the kitchen and make the most of the deeeelish spring menus on offer at nearby restaurants and eateries.
Eschalot Restaurant celebrates local produce with divine flavours, Franquette Creperie brings a taste of the French life, Bistro Sociale at Berida Hotel combines sophistication with relaxed dining in every bite, and Robertson Public House and Kitchen serves tasty pub food made with top-quality ingredients.
Explore more fab Highlands dining options here.
Outdoor Activities and Adventures in the Southern Highlands
After being cooped up indoors through those chilly winter days, we’re so ready for some outdoor action.
Head out on a bushwalk and spot Aussie native flora in full bloom, have a picnic with the crew at one of these great locations, or jump on the bike for a ride around the towns and villages.
Maybe even pitch a tent and enjoy a staycation at a camping spot not far from home.
Our Outdoor & Adventure guide has more alfresco adventure inspo.
Seasonal Shopping in the Southern Highlands
Who else gets major heart eyes when one of our amazing local retailers drops their latest seasonal collections?
Secure those new-season styles or race-day glam at a local boutique. We’re totally picturing a Fashions on the Field moment at the Bong Bong Picnic Races! And make sure to pick out a new hat or fascinator from a spot like The Highland Hattery.
Spring is also the time to throw open the doors and welcome family and friends over for BBQs, nibbles, and drinkies. Up the hosting game with goodies from a furniture and homewares store, eats and drinks from a deli, grocer or bottle shop, and fresh florals from a florist to have the home looking [and smelling] oh-so good.
Get more retail therapy in our shopping directory here.
Wellness and Experiences to Refresh Your Spring
We’ll be the first to admit winter can take its toll on both our bodies and minds. Dark days, chilly weather, and more time lazing on the couch can lower our mood, energy, and motivation.
All is good, though, because spring is a time for renewal all around. It’s easier to get outside, move, soak up some sunshine, and feel more energized while kicking off new healthy habits.
To get some pep back in those steps we’re thinking a health retreat, spa day or yoga sesh is on the cards.
Or sign up to a gym or fitness centre, pick up a new hobby or treat yourself to a fun one-off class or lesson.
We’re feeling fresher already.
Yep, spring has fully sprung.
Enjoy it now because summer will be here before you know it. Then comes Christmas… then New Year’s… and before you know it, we do it all over again!