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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Vacation Homes in Mittagong

"We had a wonderful stay in this beautiful home! Very central to town centre walking distance to everything! Would definitely recommend this place!"

"We loved our stay at the Jean House. The house is very spacious and the games room is amazing. Host was very responsive."

SAR 2,081 total

includes taxes & fees

23 Jul - 24 Jul

"Whilst Iona House is a nice home and we have enjoyed our stay it requires some serious attention and maintenance i.e. stove oven seal is broken. Dial to timer is not working so just start the oven is difficult.Instruction of use is required for the coffee machine. It required descaling before it could be used. This should have been carried out prior to our use.PowerPoints top left bathroom not working Billiard room half the cues are either broken or tips missing No Number marbles for Kelly pool...

"Convenient location to village amenities and surrounding activities. Very clean and comfortable with excellent decor and furnishings. Perfect for weekend getaway."

SAR 1,343 total

includes taxes & fees

20 Jul - 21 Jul

"Lovely spot great accommodation and very dog friendly! Will be visiting again!"

"The entire process from booking to the actual stay was seamless. There was plenty of room for our 20 guests, the hosts have thought of everything and the property manager was excellent. It made our wedding weekend fabulous!"

"Great relaxing week away with family"

SAR 1,588 total

includes taxes & fees

13 Aug - 14 Aug

"Was a very clean safe and unique stay with interactions with farm animals contributed to the occasion. Loved the fire."

"This was our second stay at Sherwood House and it was great for our family. Highly recommend."

"Wonderful weekend in a historical home. Thank yoi"

SAR 4,258 total

includes taxes & fees

13 Aug - 14 Aug

"Extremely beautiful property with all the luxuries and comfort. Fabulous host too. "

"Everything about the house was well thought out, with all the amenities you could want. We all wish we were staying longer!"

"I can't find fault with Hollyday. Beautifully appointed. Immaculately clean. Very warm on a cold weekend. This property had everything we needed to enjoy and relax during our stay while being conveniently located. There was a glitch soon after we arrived, but this was dealt with quickly by the hosts while maintaining communication with us. We'd love to return one day."

"Great property, Justin and Andrew very Friendly and the most comfortable bed we have ever slept in! "

"Thanks Shelly we had a lovely “Mums” weekend away. Your home is gorgeous and a perfect fit our group of 6! "

"The property was exactly as advertised, so spacious and comfortable. Great for a weekend getaway and so close to the town centre.When the property manager was contacted they responded promptly.The only downside was no reception available for any of us and the wifi was down.Other than that was a fantastic getaway and would definitely stay at this property again."

4 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, WiFi, bed sheets

"Beautiful house very warm and welcoming everything you need was there, close to all amenities I would recommend and stay again "

"Very friendly hosts, and comfortable quiet stay. The hosts were very welcoming and keen to assist in whatever way they could. Loved the boiled eggs for breakfast "

SAR 533 total

includes taxes & fees

16 Jul - 17 Jul