This was meant to be a big loop through Abercrombie, but like most good rides, the plan changed. Instead, we explored the Southern Highlands from Mittagong to Bundanoon, chasing dirt roads we didn’t know, discovering unexpected highlights, and stopping at some classic country towns like Goulburn, Taralga and Moss Vale.

It was 3 degrees when we started. There were wrong turns, drone shots, side-street surprises, and a reminder that sometimes the best rides aren’t the ones you plan — they’re the ones that unfold as you go.