We believe that the feeling woven into the walls, cornices and every brick of a home is built on such intentional foundations, on pieces chosen not just for their aesthetic appeal, but for the feelings they evoke and the narratives they carry. It is with this idea that we were delighted to participate in the first Southern Highlands Shopping Trail – a visionary initiative that celebrates conscious buying, recognises regional excellence, and invites design enthusiasts on an unforgettable journey through the heart of one of Australia’s most enchanting regions.
This comprehensive guide is an invitation to immerse yourself in the magic of the Southern Highlands Shopping Trail, an experience that transcends mere retail to become a day of curated discovery, inspiration, and genuine connection. We’ll delve into the ins and outs of this unique tour, explore its carefully selected destinations, celebrate the vibrant spirit of local entrepreneurship, and unveil the hidden gems that make this event an unmissable highlight on the Australian design calendar. Prepare to swap impersonal online scrolling for the rich tapestry of real-world engagement, allowing your senses to guide you through beautifully curated spaces and heartfelt conversations.
The Southern Highlands, with its rolling green hills, charming villages, and thriving artistic community, has long been a sanctuary for those seeking beauty and tranquility beyond the city's edge. It's a place where creativity flourishes, and where small businesses are the beating heart of the community. In this picturesque setting, a powerful idea took root: the Southern Highlands Shopping Trail.
This innovative day tour was born from the vision of Allie Duval, a St George-based interior designer who sought to bridge the gap between discerning consumers and the authentic, soulful offerings of regional boutiques. Allie's philosophy, deeply ingrained in her practice at Coastal Hamptons Design Studio, is to "create the home you were meant to live in today and you will still want to live there tomorrow". This commitment to timeless design and enduring quality extends seamlessly to her approach to shopping. She recognised a palpable longing among consumers for "more meaningful, tactile experiences", a desire to step away from the fleeting nature of online trends and engage with products in a deeper, more personal way.
"In a world of online shopping, people are longing for more meaningful, tactile experiences," says Allie Duval, the trail's founder. "This tour is about slowing down, engaging with beautifully curated spaces, and supporting the passionate small business owners who bring them to life. It’s shopping with soul — and purpose". This powerful sentiment resonates deeply with Few & Far’s own ethos. We believe that every piece in your home should tell a story, evoke an emotion, and contribute to a living narrative. The trail is a direct pathway to finding such pieces, connecting directly with the artisans and curators who inject them with character.
The Southern Highlands Shopping Trail is, at its core, an act of conscious buying. It's a deliberate choice to support independent makers, regional boutiques, and the local economy, thereby contributing to the sustainability and vibrancy of these unique enterprises. By fostering a direct connection between shopper and shopkeeper, the trail transforms what could be a mere transaction into a rich, shared experience of discovery and mutual appreciation. It’s about valuing the journey of the object, from its creation to its place in your home, and understanding the passion of those who bring it to you. This initiative is a beautiful example of how thoughtful consumption can create a positive ripple effect, nurturing both individual style and community prosperity.
Imagine a day designed solely for your inspiration and enjoyment, where every detail is meticulously orchestrated to ensure a seamless and enriching experience. This is the promise of the Southern Highlands Shopping Trail. The journey begins with the unparalleled convenience of luxury coach transfers from South Sydney. This thoughtful inclusion immediately sets a relaxed and anticipatory tone, allowing guests to shed the stresses of travel and simply open themselves to the beauty that awaits in the picturesque Southern Highlands. The strategic choice of a weekday date for the tour—such as Tuesday 19th August — is intentional. It promises "a more relaxed, unhurried experience" away from the hustle and bustle of weekend crowds, fostering a more intimate atmosphere and allowing for deeper engagement with each unique destination.
The day’s itinerary is a curated tapestry of sensory pleasures and insightful engagements, transforming a shopping trip into a delightful expedition:
A Warm & Inviting Commencement: The trail typically commences with a convivial gathering, offering morning coffee and pastries – a perfect opportunity for guests to mingle, connect with fellow design enthusiasts, and set a joyful tone for the inspiring day ahead. The inclusion of a celebratory Bellini upon arrival further elevates the experience, marking the beginning of a truly special journey of discovery.
Handpicked Store Visits: A Journey Through Unique Spaces: The very heart of the Southern Highlands Shopping Trail lies in its meticulously handpicked store visits to Southern Highlands boutiques and artisan retailers. These are not merely commercial spaces; they are vibrant extensions of their founders' passions, brimming with unique finds, handcrafted treasures, and distinct styles. Each stop presents an opportunity to explore diverse aesthetics, from timeless homewares to unique fashion pieces, artisanal beauty products, and captivating curiosities. Guests are often treated to exclusive in-store discounts, ranging from 5%–20%, along with other guest-only perks, adding an element of genuine value and appreciation for their conscious purchasing decisions. It’s an immersive experience where the quality and story of each item come to the forefront.
Expert Styling & Design Insights: Illuminating Your Vision: A standout feature of the Southern Highlands Shopping Trail is the direct and invaluable access to expert design insights. Allie Duval, with her "keen eye for detail" and philosophy to "create the home you were meant to live in today and you will still want to live there tomorrow", personally conducts mini styling sessions and dedicates time for design Q&A. This unique opportunity allows guests to delve into specific design challenges, ask pressing questions, and gain practical tips and personalised advice. It's a chance to translate inspirations gleaned from the beautiful boutiques directly into their own homes, empowering participants to make more informed and confident design choices. This hands-on guidance truly elevates the shopping tour into a learning experience, providing a deeper understanding of how to curate meaningful spaces.
A Culinary Interlude: Savouring Regional Flavours: The day’s journey of aesthetic discovery is thoughtfully punctuated by a delightful two-course lunch, often accompanied by wine, at a handpicked heritage-inspired Highlands restaurant. This provides a cherished moment to relax, reflect on the morning’s inspiring finds, and savour the region’s renowned culinary offerings. This pause allows for invigorating conversations among fellow attendees, reinforcing the communal aspect of the trail and further enriching the immersive cultural experience. It's an opportunity to taste the bounty of the Southern Highlands, complementing the visual feast of the morning.
The Grand Finale: An Elegant Culmination: The trail culminates in a delightful high tea, often held at an iconic Southern Highlands location such as the picturesque Centennial Vineyards. Picture delicate finger sandwiches, an array of savoury and sweet pastries, and homemade scones with jam and cream, all enjoyed amidst breathtaking views of sprawling vineyards. This elegant conclusion provides a perfect setting for final reflections, shared enjoyment, and the formation of new friendships, cementing the day's memories with a touch of sophisticated indulgence. It's a moment to truly savour the rich tapestry of the Highlands experience.
Seamless Convenience: A Journey of Effortless Discovery: Beyond the curated experiences, the practicalities of the tour are also meticulously handled, ensuring a truly effortless day. Luxury coach transfers guarantee comfort and ease between destinations, with ample storage space for purchases. This freedom allows guests to shop to their heart's content without the burden of carrying bags, enhancing the relaxation and enjoyment. Furthermore, a digital style and shopping guide, complete with an itinerary map and reference points, ensures that the inspiration and discoveries can be revisited and integrated into their homes long after the tour concludes. Automatic entry into exclusive raffles featuring generous spending vouchers and carefully curated gifts adds an extra layer of excitement to an already exceptional day. This thoughtful orchestration transforms a simple shopping trip into a memorable journey, celebrating conscious consumption and the profound joy of real-world discovery.
We at Few & Far were truly honoured and immensely grateful to have been included in the inaugural Southern Highlands Shopping Trail. Our Bowral showroom, a cherished cornerstone of the Southern Highlands community, perfectly embodies the spirit of curated beauty, global craftsmanship, and timeless design that the trail seeks to celebrate. It was a natural and harmonious alignment, as both Few & Far and Allie Duval's visionary initiative share a deep and abiding commitment to quality, authenticity, and the vital role of supporting the local ecosystem of unique businesses. This synergy ensures that every step of the trail, and every piece discovered, resonates with a shared philosophy of intentional living and design.
Our Bowral store, with its meticulously arranged displays of furniture, homewares, and decor, offered guests a genuine, real-world experience. It allowed them to witness firsthand "how products could look, feel, and smell in your home" – a powerful sensory immersion that transcends the limitations of online viewing. It’s a space that customers consistently describe as "a shop filled with loveliness," a true "absolute gem" where "luxe and glamour" are evident "in every nook and cranny". This immersive environment allowed participants to truly envision how our diverse collection — from grand statement pieces that anchor a room to delicate accents that add layers of personality — can transform a mere house into a soulful home, reflecting their individual style and unfolding story.
A particular highlight of our involvement, and a moment that truly captivated the guests, was the engaging bed styling demonstration conducted by Allie Duval herself at Few & Far Bowral. Allie, renowned for her expert eye and practical approach to design, generously shared her invaluable tips and techniques for creating truly relaxing and luxurious bedroom sanctuaries. This live, interactive demonstration offered tangible takeaways, showing how thoughtful layering of textiles (from sumptuous sheets to inviting throws), strategic placement of accent furniture (such as a chic side table or an elegant bench), and the discerning selection of quality decorative pieces can effortlessly elevate a bedroom from a mere sleeping space to a haven of tranquility, comfort, and sophisticated style. Her insights resonated deeply with the audience, empowering them with actionable ideas and inspiring confidence for their own home styling projects. Our comprehensive bedroom furniture collection, featuring unique bedheads, elegant benches, versatile storage solutions, and an array of luxurious textiles, provides the perfect foundation for these styling principles, allowing anyone to transform their sleeping spaces into deeply personal and beautifully curated sanctuaries that balance luxury with functionality.
Few & Far's participation in the Southern Highlands Shopping Trail further underscores our deep-seated dedication to supporting local initiatives that champion conscious consumerism and celebrate the enduring artisan spirit. It's a vibrant testament to the power of community and meaningful collaboration in fostering a dynamic and resilient retail landscape — one that genuinely values quality, narrative, and authentic human connection above all else. We extend our sincerest gratitude to Allie Duval for envisioning and orchestrating such an exceptional event, and for allowing Few & Far to be an integral part of this truly incredible and inspiring experience.
The Southern Highlands Shopping Trail is a masterfully woven tapestry of unique destinations, each contributing its distinct flavour to the day's unfolding narrative. While the trail's precise itinerary is meticulously curated and may evolve, the overarching spirit of exploring charming boutiques and connecting with passionate local business owners remains the unwavering constant. The inaugural trail, and anticipated future iterations, shine a spotlight on a selection of the region's finest establishments, fostering a collective appreciation for the unique and diverse offerings of Bowral and its charming surrounds.
Imagine the delight of wandering through the inviting doors of these distinctive establishments:
Few & Far Bowral: Our very own haven in the heart of the Highlands, where globally sourced, thoughtfully curated furniture, homewares, and decor invite you to discover pieces that each tell a unique story. From rare antique finds imbued with a beautiful patina to contemporary designs crafted from exquisite natural materials, our showroom offers endless inspiration for creating a home with true soul and character. Our collection encourages the art of layering textures and embraces a harmonious blend of old and new, allowing each space to evolve with a rich, personal narrative. It's a place where design feels both aspirational and intimately attainable.
Berida Hotel: A truly stunning heritage property that effortlessly exudes classic elegance and refined country charm. A visit here offers a captivating glimpse into luxurious accommodation and beautifully appointed interiors, setting a high standard for the aesthetic sensibilities of the Southern Highlands. Its timeless style often features plush fabrics, intricate detailing, and sophisticated colour palettes, reflecting a sense of enduring grandeur and rich history, inviting a moment of quiet contemplation.
Suzie Anderson Home: Known for its exquisite collection of French country and Hamptons-inspired homewares, furniture, and gifts. Stepping into Suzie Anderson Home is akin to entering a beautifully styled magazine spread, a veritable treasure trove for crafting elegant and inviting spaces with a distinctly European flair, where every detail speaks of refined taste. Their unwavering focus on classic designs, serene muted colour palettes, and impeccable quality finishes aligns perfectly with a desire for timeless, sophisticated aesthetics.
Hunter Gatherer Collections: An undeniably eclectic treasure trove, brimming with carefully selected vintage, antique, and globally collected pieces. This is a quintessential destination for the true connoisseur of unique finds, a place where every item has a captivating past and a story patiently waiting to be discovered. It wholeheartedly champions the beloved "collected" look, actively encouraging a harmonious blend of eras and origins to create deeply personal interiors that reflect a life well-travelled and thoughtfully curated.
Dirty Janes Bowral: An iconic and much-loved destination in the Southern Highlands, often described with affectionate enthusiasm as an "antique market paradise". With an expansive array of numerous dealers showcasing their wares under one vast roof, it’s a sprawling wonderland of vintage furniture, intriguing collectibles, unique clothing, and delightful curiosities. It’s a place where patience and a keen, discerning eye are generously rewarded with one-of-a-kind treasures that can infuse immense character, depth, and tangible history into any home, ensuring your space feels genuinely authentic.
Wilson Dorset: Specialising in exquisitely crafted, high-quality leather goods and accessories, often with a profound emphasis on artisanal craftsmanship and timeless design. Their products embody both remarkable durability and classic style, reflecting a deep-seated dedication to enduring quality that resonates powerfully with the conscious consumer who values longevity over fleeting trends.
Ferris Wheel Bowral: This boutique offers a thoughtfully curated selection of contemporary fashion and lifestyle products, providing a refreshing and stylish interlude from the homewares focus. Its emphasis on personal style and unique apparel allows guests to explore how their individual fashion choices can seamlessly complement their interior aesthetics, reflecting a holistic approach to personal expression.
The Bag Lady 925 Bowral: A specialised boutique, likely offering a distinctive collection of handcrafted bags and accessories, potentially with a compelling focus on intricate artisanal techniques or the use of uniquely sourced materials. It celebrates individuality and the inherent charm of bespoke, one-of-a-kind items that add a touch of personal flair.
Bare Body Beauty Co.: This inspiring stop focuses on natural and ethically sourced beauty products, wholeheartedly promoting holistic wellness and mindful self-care. Its inclusion on the trail highlights the growing and important trend towards conscious living, extending beyond home decor to encompass personal well-being, offering products that nourish, restore, and rejuvenate both body and mind.
Sip SoHi: An establishment that likely offers unique, gourmet beverages or delightful culinary treats, providing a welcome sensory experience and a moment of indulgent pleasure during the tour. It speaks to the broader lifestyle aspect of the Southern Highlands experience, embracing local produce, artisanal creations, and the joy of discovering unique culinary delights.
Centennial Vineyards: A truly stunning winery universally renowned for its exceptional cool-climate wines and breathtakingly picturesque setting. Beyond the opportunity for wine tasting, their elegant restaurant offers a sophisticated high tea and exquisite dining experiences, providing a perfectly refined backdrop for the tour's culminating moments. Their commitment to quality produce and elegant presentation embodies the sophisticated and luxurious side of regional living.
These are but a selection of the many incredible businesses that collectively contribute to the vibrant, diverse, and deeply inspiring shopping scene in the Southern Highlands. The trail encourages guests to explore, engage, and truly appreciate the profound passion, dedication, and artistry woven into the very fabric of each unique establishment.
The Southern Highlands Shopping Trail is far more than a delightful day out; it is a powerful, intentional movement advocating for conscious buying and the vital support of small businesses. This philosophy is deeply ingrained in the very ethos of Few & Far. In a world increasingly saturated with rapid consumption, ephemeral trends, and the often-impersonal nature of mass-produced goods, choosing to shop small and local offers a multitude of profound benefits that extend far beyond the immediate purchase.
It’s a deliberate act that creates ripple effects of positive change.
By consciously embracing the principles of mindful, responsible consumption through visionary initiatives like the Southern Highlands Shopping Trail, consumers become active and empowered participants in building a more sustainable, vibrant, and authentic world – one thoughtful purchase, one heartfelt connection, and one inspiring discovery at a time.
The Southern Highlands Shopping Trail is more than an event; it's an invitation to experience the exquisite charm of a region that embodies the very best of Australian style, craftsmanship, and community spirit. It's a journey that speaks directly to the Few & Far philosophy – a dedication to curated beauty, timeless design, and the profound stories embedded within every cherished object.
From the picturesque streets of Bowral to the welcoming doors of its unique boutiques, and culminating in the refined elegance of a high tea at Centennial Vineyards, every moment of this tour is designed to inspire and delight. It's an opportunity to connect with passionate artisans, discover hidden gems, and shop with a purpose that resonates deeply with your values. As Allie Duval envisions, it’s about "slowing down, engaging with beautifully curated spaces, and supporting the passionate small business owners who bring them to life."
We at Few & Far are immensely proud to have been a part of this inaugural event, welcoming guests to our Bowral store and sharing our passion for creating soulful spaces. The Southern Highlands Shopping Trail is a testament to the enduring power of real-world experiences and the joy of conscious consumption. It encapsulates our belief that a beautiful home is a collected home, filled with pieces chosen not just for their appearance, but for the memories they evoke and the positive impact their purchase creates.
Ready to embark on your own day of inspiring discoveries? The Southern Highlands Shopping Trail offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of curated style and genuine connection.
Book Your Journey Today! The next tour is scheduled for Tuesday 19th August, 2025 – a weekday date specifically chosen for a "more relaxed, unhurried experience" away from the weekend bustle, ensuring a truly intimate and enriching day.
Tickets are now available via:
TryBooking:
https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1433753
Follow the journey on Instagram: @southernhighlandsshoppingtrail
We invite you to fill its chapters with pieces that carry meaning, and to discover them on a journey that nourishes your soul. Join us in celebrating the beauty of conscious buying and the captivating charm of the Southern Highlands.
Your next treasured piece, and a day of unforgettable inspiration, awaits.
Located in the heart of the beautiful Southern Highlands, our Bowral store is a must-visit destination in a town renowned for its unique shopping. A favourite among locals and visitors alike, it’s the perfect place to explore our carefully curated collection of furniture, homewares, décor, original art, giftware and more.
For a personalised shopping experience, book an In-Store Design Consultation. Let our expert stylists guide you through our curated collection of furniture and homewares to find the perfect pieces for your home.
Find us in the heart of Bowral, with street parking available out front or free parking in the Wattle Lane carpark behind the store.
Come wander, discover and be inspired—we can’t wait to welcome you.
351 Bong Bong Street
Bowral, NSW 2576
Phone:Â +61 (02) 4861 6756
Monday - Saturday: 10am - 5pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
Discover all Few & Far locations here.
Drawing from years of experience in homewares and design, we celebrate conscious buying, artisanal craftsmanship, and are driven by the belief that every space should be a collection of pieces that tell stories from past and present and make ways for the narrative to continue in the future. Our mission is to inspire, guide, and help you weave a unique and meaningful story within your own walls.
