Hewn out of the living rock in the 1860s using hand tools and blasting powder, Big Hill Cutting was at one time the deepest railway cutting in the southern hemisphere. Taken as it was near the eastern end of the cutting, even this pic doesn't properly illustrate the depth.

The cutting has a long and macabre history, with several workers killed during its construction due to a blasting accident and several drivers later perishing after crashing their automobiles through the old timber bridge's guardrails and down onto the rails below. Despite the history, it's a peaceful and beautiful place.

The old railway line was abandoned in the 1970s and runs for around 50km between the towns of Thirlmere and Mittagong. Although not a proper rail trail, there are service trails parallelling the railway for much of its length. I've walked it a few times, including the trip pictured which was undertaken 2-Boot-Drive Swagman style ;-)

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Farmstay in Mittagong

Property entrance

"A little dated but clean, comfortable and with bonus continental breakfast provisions. "

SAR 354 total

includes taxes & fees

27 Jul - 28 Jul

Front of property - evening/night

"Great size room and convenient location off the highway. Rooms was lovely and clean, towels soft. Will definitely stay again."

SAR 317 total

includes taxes & fees

23 Jul - 24 Jul

Property grounds

"Exceptionally helpful and generous staff, stunning historical accommodation and beautiful gardens. Extremely practical and understanding property for a stay with pets."

Exterior

"Lovely clean modern setting with everything we needed. Will definitely book again."

SAR 559 total

includes taxes & fees

23 Jul - 24 Jul

Exterior

"Very clean, comfortable and convenient. Enjoyed our stay."

Exterior

"Booking & checking in was easy & efficient."

Outdoor dining

Exterior

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Top Mittagong Hotel Reviews

Camden Valley Inn

Camden Valley Inn

10/10 Excellent

"Gorgeous location beautiful room and friendly staff! Would definitely come back! Only negative is that it's extremely busy and popular and car spaces are not reserved for guests so it was difficult to park to get to our room we had to wait for a car to leave."

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