In the heat of the summer, what could be nicer than an escape to the cool of the Southern Highlands? Or what about making the trip in winter – there’s bound to be a roaring open fire waiting for you! This area really has seasons and takes on a different look and feel no matter what time of year you choose to visit. The towns of Bowral, Mittagong, Moss Vale, Robertson and Bundanoon offer tearooms, galleries, arts and crafts and antiques. You will be fascinated by Berrima with its historic main street. The rolling hills in between offer a relaxing rural escape, while the dramatic mountain scenery of Morton National Park has great bushwalks. Don’t miss Fitzroy Falls in the Park, which are especially spectacular after rain.

Historic Goulburn, Australia’s first inland city, makes an ideal base for a weekend. The Heritage Walk takes you past many of Goulburn’s historic buildings. Visit Goulburn Regional Art Gallery, recognised as one of Australia's major regional galleries. The Old Goulburn Brewery is the oldest working industrial complex in Australia and the guided tour is fascinating. The city boasts some delightful parks and gardens, including Belmore Park and Victoria Park. The Goulburn City Rose Festival, held in March, showcases the magnificent City of Goulburn rose. On the hill behind the city stands the Rocky Hill War Memorial. The lookout provides stunning views of Goulburn and the surrounding district. The War Memorial with its enclosed viewing platform is open to the public at the weekend and houses a collection of interesting wartime artefacts. To the east of the city lies Bungonia Gorge which offers a range of bushwalks, lookouts and picnic facilities. The more adventurous can try abseiling and rockclimbing in the gorge.

The South Coast offers many delightful popular weekend spots from Canberra. All along the coast there are delightful seaside communities and great beaches. Bateman's Bay has some lovely beaches, some with shallow water for littlies and others offering fine surf. Futher north, Ulladulla has fine fishing, while Jervis Bay has the whitest sandy beaches in the world. Wildlife lovers should not miss the trip to Montague Island from Narooma, or you could visit Pebbly Beach or Murramarang National Park where wild kangaroos can often be seen, especially in the early evening. If you are feeling energetic, you could try horse riding, canoeing or even hire a jet ski. Fishing, diving and wildlife cruises are available in many locations. Take the opportunity to browse the many art and craft galleries in the area.