Sutton Forest, NEW SOUTH WALES
Airing Date: Dec 23rd, 2002
Just a two hour drive from Sydney, it's the perfect place to turn back the clock for some old fashioned relaxation.
Positioned in Sutton Forest, 129 kilometres south west of Sydney, Hillview was originally purchased in 1882 as a country retreat for New South Wales Governors and their families.
A century later, it is open to the public as a heritage hotel of grand proportions. Many of the original pieces of furniture have since been renovated and now furnish the lounge, bathrooms and the eight double suites.
A short stroll down the road is Red Cow Farm. The cottage was originally built in 1834 as the Red Cow Inn but these days it's more famous for its stunning gardens.
Since the Red Cow Inn no longer operates as a restaurant, the locals now dine at the Sutton Forest Inn. Rumour has it that it is about to get a write up in the next Sydney Good Food Guide. On a chilly winter's night their roast veal with garlic mash and roasted veggies really hits the spot.
In traditional Southern Highlands style, visit A Little Piece of Scotland, which sells everything Scottish from pewter to pipers and, of course, Edinburgh crystal. Sample a packet of homemade shortbread - it's the perfect dessert to end a fabulous day.
The facts
Qantas flies to Sydney daily from all capital cities.
Qantas
Tel: 13 13 13
A double suite at Hillview costs $200 a night midweek including breakfast, or $500 at the weekend for a two-night stay including breakfast.
Hillview
Tel: 02 4868 2500
Main meals at the Sutton Forest Inn start at around $16
Sutton Forest Inn
Tel: 02 4868 1697
The Red Cow Farm Gardens are open to the public during spring and autumn. Entry costs $5 per person.
Red Cow Farm Gardens
Tel: 02 4868 1842
A Little Piece of Scotland is open daily all year round. Homemade shortbread is $6 a packet.
A Little Piece of Scotland
Tel: 02 4868 3492
Southlands Dairies Pty Ltd
Tel: 02 4878 9213
A Southern Highlands Tourism
Tel: 02 4871 2888
Tourism New South Wales
Tel: 13 20 77
