Wildlife & Surrounds

A stay at Little Forest is more than just a country escape – it’s a chance to reconnect with nature and experience the unique charm of the Southern Highlands landscape.

Wander along our peaceful bush tracks and you’ll find yourself surrounded by the sights and sounds of native Australia. Bowerbirds, vibrant parrots and tiny blue wrens flit through the trees, while frogs and insects hum in the background. At dusk, rabbits begin to stir, and if you're lucky, you may spot a wombat waddling by, a wallaby grazing in the distance, or even a kangaroo or fox passing through the paddocks. In the summer months, red-bellied black snakes may be seen basking quietly in the sun – a reminder that you're deep in the Australian countryside, where wildlife and guests coexist with care and respect.

“A glorious stand of paper barks, so old and unusual that they are Heritage Listed, guard the entrance to Little Forest Country Cottages like ancient sentinels. Once you pass through them, as if heading through a magical gateway, you are quickly upon another world with a history all its own…” — Sunday Telegraph, Escape 2008

This ‘other world’ is one of unspoiled beauty and quiet discovery. The property is home to a variety of native flora, with each season offering something new to see – from blossoms in spring to golden tones in autumn. It’s a place where children can explore freely, birdwatchers can revel in the variety of species, and those seeking solitude can find stillness under the trees.

At night, the sky comes alive. Free from city lights, the stargazing here is spectacular – a treat for astronomers and romantics alike. And for those with a love of history and place, Little Forest is layered with stories, from Governor Macquarie’s 1820s campsite to the creative legacy of artists and writers who have drawn inspiration from its peaceful setting.

Beyond the property, the Southern Highlands offers its own array of wonders. The nearby villages of Bowral, Mittagong, Berrima and beyond invite you to explore heritage architecture, boutique shops, local galleries, farmers’ markets and cool-climate wine trails.

Whether you're looking to unwind, reconnect, or simply breathe deeply, the surrounds of Little Forest promise an experience that lingers long after you leave.