The Southern Highlands has a distinct cool climate compared to coastal NSW. Winters are cold and sometimes frosty, with foggy mornings in the valley. Summer is mild — a welcome escape from Sydney's heat, and the main reason city-dwellers have been coming here for over a century.
Spring (September–November) brings the tulip display at Corbett Gardens and the Tulip Time festival in October. This is the most crowded time — book accommodation well in advance if you plan to visit then. Autumn (March–May) is equally beautiful, with the European deciduous trees in the gardens and along the streets turning gold and red. Winter is quiet but atmospheric, and the local fire-lit pubs do good trade.