Berrima is widely recognised today as the best preserved example of a
Georgian village on the Australian mainland.
Historic Berrima
Berrima was established in the 1830s during a time of great exploration and expansion in New South Wales. In 1829 surveyor general Major Thomas Mitchell camped near the site of the present bridge over the Wingecarribee River while surveying the route for the Great South Road. He advised governor Bourke that here was an ideal town site, and surveyor Robert Hoddle submitted a plan for the village which was approved in 1831.
From Then to Now
Berrima is widely recognised today as the best preserved example of a Georgian village on the Australian mainland.
A fortunate series of events created the Berrima we see today. 1831 to the 1860s was a time of promise and growth, which came to an abrupt end when the railway bypassed the village in 1867. For the next hundred years there was little or no development in the village.
Where to Stay
For the solitary visitor, for a couple or family; exploring the village, the river and the region around Berrima requires more than just a day trip. A hotel, a motel, numerous cottages and B&Bs are located in and around Berrima village. Accommodation is priced from budget to luxurious with weeknight and weekend packages available.
Meet Half-way, Stay All Day (Or Longer)
Berrima is within easy driving distance from major population centres.
Friends meet at Berrima for lunch or dinner, wander around the village and enjoy its
many delights, perhaps stay overnight and explore the wineries, or maybe just relax.
Distances and times are:
| Sydney | 125 km | 80 min |
| Canberra | 162 km | 100 min |
| Wollongong | 82km | 50 min |
