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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Compare rooms and suites by Independent in Mittagong with rates, reviews, and availability. Most hotels are fully refundable.

2 bars/lounges

"Great stay"

AED 313 total

includes taxes & fees

13 Oct - 14 Oct

Courtyard Executive Family Room | Iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets

"Beautiful accommodation and great location in a nice village atmosphere "

AED 424 total

includes taxes & fees

13 Oct - 14 Oct

3 bars/lounges

"Close to shops and parks."

AED 447 total

includes taxes & fees

14 Oct - 15 Oct

Lounge

"It was quaint and just perfect location for us to explore. Thank you for such an enjoyable stay. "

AED 523 total

includes taxes & fees

20 Oct - 21 Oct

Bar (on property)

"Great home away from home "

AED 338 total

includes taxes & fees

20 Oct - 21 Oct

Exterior

"hv family room that provide 3 beds"

AED 618 total

includes taxes & fees

6 Oct - 7 Oct

Garden Room | Premium bedding, individually decorated, individually furnished, desk

"Great spot and reasonably priced "

AED 480 total

includes taxes & fees

19 Oct - 20 Oct

Sports bar

"It ticked a lot of boxes for a comfortable overnight stay."

AED 455 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Oct - 10 Oct

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Top Mittagong Hotel Reviews

Poplars at Mittagong

Poplars at Mittagong

10/10 Excellent

"Excellent "

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