Best Fireplaces to Cosy Up To in The Highlands
Winter is well and truly upon us. And while friends fill your feeds with their European summer stories, there’s never been a better time to ask yourself—are they really your friends at all? Just kidding. Happy for them. That seaside spritz looks lovely.
Seriously though, if there’s one season the Southern Highlands does best, it’s winter. What could be more soul-soothing than cosying up by the fireplace with a glass of red and a plate of incredible food while surrounded by the rugged beauty of the region? Here are the best spots to do just that.
George’s, Osborn House
Let’s get the obvious out of the way first—our bar and restaurant, George’s, is the ultimate winter wonderland experience. We welcome day visitors and hotel guests to toast both drinks and food by our stunning fluted fireplace inside while taking in the spectacular views of Morton National Park outside.
Berrima Vault House
Wouldn’t be much of a list without including what’s known as the Southern Highland’s largest fireplace, would it?! Steeped in history (and sandstone), Taylor’s Crown Inn was built by convicts in 1844 and has lived many lives since then, including housing an art gallery and bakery. Go for a drink, stay for dinner.
Bendooley Estate
Why settle for one fireplace when you can have multiple? Each is unique and memorable, but the star of the show is the huge circular iron fireplace with a chimney to the roof in Bendooley’s restaurant. While you’re there, have a drink and wander through the Book Barn, or enjoy a wine tasting at the Cellar Door.
Sutton Forest Inn
Warmly dubbed “The Sutto” by locals, this classic country bar oozes rustic charm. Founded in 1936 in the Wingecarribee Shire, enjoy a hearty pub feed by the fire while the regulars fill you in on the history of the Highlands. If walls could talk, The Sutto would tell the best stories.
Bundanoon Hotel
Built in 1922 in the same quaint village Osborn House calls home, our friendly neighbour lights their stunning open fire place every night. Cosy up beside it on a chesterfield lounge with a drink and a wood fire pizza and you’ll understand why the Southern Highlands is considered the ultimate place to relax and retreat.
Briars Inn
Established in 1845, Briar’s Country Lodge is a Highlands institution. Inside Throsby’s Bar—named after its founder Charles Throsby—you’ll find a drinkery steeped in history and old-world charm, illuminated by the glow of a fire that’s been lit every winter for nearly two centuries.
Burrawang Village Hotel
Who said dining al fresco during winter had to be al freezing? Don your warmest winter coat and enjoy the clean and crisp Highlands air while cosying up by the huge brick outdoor fireplace under Burrawang Village Hotel’s permanent marquee structure. Flanked by fresh cut wood logs on either side, it’s the perfect dose of cool country living.
ROBERTSON HOTEL
Set on stunning grounds, the grand Roberston Hotel has lived a colourful life—at once a hospice for soldiers and even a seminary run by monks (which explains the beautiful stained-glass windows.) But it’s the huge fireplaces in the dining room and lounge area that make this historic hotel a winter-friendly watering hole.