Hathaway House

This beautiful property is like the Southern Highlands in miniature: unbelievably cozy, undeniably cute and effortlessly chic. Located in the heart of the popular village of Bundanoon, Hathaway Cottage is a gorgeous period weatherboard with an entirely renovated interior.

Entering down a gravel path, you’ll immediately appreciate the sculpted gardens and beautiful pine trees on the grounds. But it’s the inside that really sings: light spills in through French doors onto the hardwood floor, and it seems like the house is at one with the garden.

The interior design is classic Southern Highlands with a contemporary twist; there’s art on the walls and comfy furniture clustered around the original Victorian fireplace, now with a gas fire. The kitchen is modern as well, with subway tiles, a five-burner gas stove, oven and dishwasher, ideal for whipping up warming meals for family and friends.

Each bedroom is unique, with its own wallpaper and individual touches. The master bedroom with its ornate bedframe features a lovely en-suite, while the Queen and twin rooms feature built-in storage and lots of window light. The main bathroom is lovely as well, with a massive soaking tub perfect for cold nights. Laundry facilities are also included.

What the owner loves:
Though it’s in the heart of town, Hathaway Cottage’s gardens mean it feels private, a place to escape from it all. The gravel path from the front entrance takes you past mature conifers and manicured hedges, while the back deck looks out onto the well-kept lawn. Best of all, the garden seems ever-present within the house thanks to the abundance of windows.

What we love:
This is a house for every season. In those chilly Southern Highlands’ winters it’s perfect: turn on the heating and the fireplace and enjoy a glass of wine on the couch with friends, read a book over a cup of tea in the sunroom or take a long, relaxing bath. But it works just as well in summer too, thanks to the air-conditioning and the beautiful back deck: throw open the doors and let the breeze and birdsong in.

What the sophisticated traveller loves:
Long known as an exclusive retreat for Sydney’s old money, the Southern Highlands is casting off its slightly fusty reputation and embracing its cooler side. The trendy Osborne Hotel and Spa is just around the corner from Hathaway Cottage, and fine dining restaurants abound in the towns nearby. Visits to local wineries are also on the cards, along with some of the best antique shopping in Australia

STRA Permit ID: PID-STRA-34942