Berrima is the perfect place to stop on between Sydney and Canberra. It’s just a couple of minutes off the highway. There’s no traffic and it’s the cutest Georgian town in all of Australia with fabulous places to eat and things to see.

Why you must stop at Berrima on the road from Canberra to Sydney.

For years we drove between Sydney and Canberra every second Friday night, heading to Riverbend. Once the traffic cleared after Campbelltown, the temptation was to belt it and just get there without stopping.

It was always a mistake. Wombats and kangaroos made high speeds treacherous. So we learned to slow down and enjoy the journey.

Berrima about halfway between Sydney and Canberra. It’s easy to get to because there’s access heading south or north on the M31 via the Old Hume Highway. Then it’s literally a couple of minutes before you’re in the gorgeous town.

There’s bakeries and cafes, a riverside walk along the Wingecarribee River, plus establishments like Eschalot have brought European-styled delcioussness to town.

Art at the heart of Berrima.

Since nearby Ngununggula opened in a former dairy, it has made the area an art destination with spectacularly curated exhibitions. Then Michael Reid Southern Highlands opened its doors on the main street of Berrima, making the tiny town more than a historic waypoint, it has become a cultural hub, showcasing talent from the area and beyond.

So whether you have half-an-hour or half-a-day, Berrima is the best and easiest places to stop between Sydney and Canberra.