……………………..A Long and Winding Road……………………

Hooray, we didn’t get lost today! After warming up with a hasty cup of tea at the Illawarra Fly, it was back to Robertson and hopes of scones or lunch in Bowral. I’d spied the Gumnut Patisserie and was looking forward to a treat. Alas, and alack, it wasn’t meant to be. No seating, just takeaway like a real cakeshop.  After the difficulty in finding parking at Bowral, even on a week day, I gave up and drove the 10km to Berrima to try the Old Bakery Cafe, but there were no patrons and the coffee machine was broken. Ended up at the Courtyard Cafe where the scone was fine but rather solitary don’t you think?

Perhaps I should have taken that turn to Berkelouw’s Book Barn and Cafe as I came into town? Unfortunately, it’s closed for refurbishment till October. Should have taken the easy option and headed for the Berrima Gumnut Patisserie which I’d visited a few years ago. Here’s their menu which even has Devonshire Tea with their own berry jam and luscious chantilly cream! Humph!

Hopefully, The Surveyor’s Inn has meals for those wanting something more hearty. Only had  a quick look around the Berrima Court House as it seemed just too gloomy today, or was it scone withdrawal symptons?  Getting late, but drove to nearby Sutton Forest, which is probably worth checking out for meals, especially as it’s close to the Freeway.

First stop, arriving here a couple of days ago was the Werai Tea Rooms where my sad scone tale really began. Imagine the disappointment in finding the scones were gluggy in the middle!

Don’t despair, there is a happy ending. Enjoyed the excellent ‘Special Offers’ from My Southern Highlands to stay at Pepper’s Manor House at Moss Vale.  After a rather long day,  a tasty dinner here at Kater’s Restaurant followed by exquisite desserts was truly appreciated. Which would you choose?

“Affogato” vanilla panna cotta/coffee ice cream/Frangelico jelly
*****
Spiced poached pear/mulled wine granité/sabayon
*****
Chocolate delice/raspberry centre/berry ice cream
*****
Mini donuts/rum and raisin ice cream/raisin puree
*****

Have tried to find Homestead or cottage style tea rooms between Sydney and Canberra but it’s been disappointing so far. Never mind, Peppers has a High Tea Menu which judging by the desserts is worth the hour and a half drive from Sydney. Even better, come another time and visit Minnamurra Falls or Fitzroy Falls, have a lovely morning’s walk and reward your efforts with a scrumptious High Tea.