Hotel in Southern Highlands, NSW, New South Wales, New South Wales
Peppers Craigieburn Bowral
Elegant country estate hotel in the picturesque Southern Highlands of NSW, just 90 minutes from Sydney. The historic property features manicured gardens, a golf course, excellent dining at Centennial Restaurant, and a relaxed country atmosphere. Perfect for a romantic escape or family retreat.
Peppers Craigieburn is a four-star country estate hotel set on Centennial Road in Bowral, within New South Wales' picturesque Southern Highlands, approximately 130 kilometres south-west of Sydney. The historic property, dating from the early twentieth century, occupies expansive manicured grounds that include heritage rose gardens, tree-lined fairways, and sweeping lawns characteristic of the Southern Highlands' cool-climate pastoral setting.
The estate's accommodation ranges from manor-style rooms within the original historic building to newer wing rooms, several of which look across the golf course or gardens. Rooms are furnished in a refined country style with quality linens, fireplaces in select categories, and verandas suited to Bowral's crisp four-season climate. The property's aesthetic is understated and elegant, appealing to guests seeking a sophisticated rural retreat within an easy drive of Sydney.
Centennial Restaurant is the dining centrepiece of the estate. The kitchen draws on Southern Highlands produce — local lamb, seasonal vegetables, and artisan cheeses — and pairs dishes with an extensive New South Wales wine list. Breakfast in the dining room is a leisurely affair well matched to the pace of a Highlands morning. The bar stocks local ales and spirits alongside a curated cocktail list well suited to late afternoon and evening.
The day spa offers a full treatment menu including massages, facials, and body treatments in a quiet setting within the estate grounds. An outdoor pool provides warm-weather swimming with garden views, and tennis courts are available for casual play. The 18-hole golf course winds through the estate's parkland and is open to hotel guests and day visitors.
Bowral is within a five-minute drive, offering boutique shopping, the Bradman Museum and Oval, and the town's acclaimed autumn foliage season. The Southern Highlands' temperate climate, receiving more rainfall and cooler temperatures than coastal New South Wales, produces vivid autumn colour each April and May. Tulip Time, held each October in Bowral's Corbett Gardens, is the region's most popular festival and rooms at Peppers Craigieburn typically sell out months in advance during this period. The Southern Highlands Winery region and nearby Kangaroo Valley add further day-trip options for guests exploring the area.
Amenities
- Outdoor pool
- Day spa
- Golf course
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Tennis
- Gardens
- Free parking
- Free WiFi
Visit / Book / Contact
Location
Centennial Road, Bowral NSW 2576
Highlights
- Historic country estate in Bowral's Southern Highlands, 130 km from Sydney
- Centennial Restaurant showcasing Southern Highlands produce and regional wines
- Full-service day spa set within the estate's heritage grounds
- 18-hole golf course winding through parkland gardens
- Gateway to the Southern Highlands' famous autumn foliage and October Tulip Time
Tips
- Book 6 months ahead for October's Tulip Time festival period — the hotel fills very quickly
- Request a room with fireplace for winter stays — the Southern Highlands gets genuinely cold
- April and May offer the region's famous foliage and are less crowded than the festival period
- The Bradman Museum in Bowral town centre is a 5-minute drive and a worthwhile visit
- Golf tee times and spa appointments should be reserved at the time of room booking
FAQ
How far is Peppers Craigieburn from Sydney?
The estate is approximately 130 kilometres south-west of Sydney near Bowral, a roughly 90-minute drive via the Hume Motorway.
What is Tulip Time and when does it occur?
Tulip Time is Bowral's annual spring festival held each October in Corbett Gardens and around town. It is the Southern Highlands' most popular event and accommodations in the area sell out far in advance.
Is the golf course open to non-guests?
Yes, the golf course is open to day visitors as well as hotel guests. Tee times can be booked through the hotel reception.
Does the property have a spa?
Yes — the day spa offers a full menu of massages, facials, and body treatments. Weekend bookings should be made well in advance as time slots are limited.
Accessibility
Peppers Craigieburn has a mix of heritage and newer accommodation buildings; ground-floor rooms in the contemporary wings offer the most accessible configurations, with step-free entry and wider bathroom doorways available on request. The main estate pathways are paved, though some garden areas involve uneven ground. Guests with mobility needs are advised to contact the hotel when booking to confirm room suitability.