In partnership with Volvo Cars
Escaping the city for a weekend away is one of life’s simplest luxuries, and for Brooke Testoni, the Southern Highlands of New South Wales is the perfect place to recharge.
Known for its crisp air, heritage towns, and rolling green landscapes, the region offers a sense of calm she returns to time and again. This trip was no exception – time spent wandering cafés, hunting for vintage treasures, and slowing down by the fire provided the reset she was looking for.
And the journey itself was part of the pleasure, with Testoni behind the wheel of the new Volvo XC90. Marrying timeless Scandinavian elegance with modern innovation, the plug-in hybrid SUV delivers a smooth, electrically assisted drive and the confidence of on-demand all-wheel control – perfect for those long country drives with the whole family in tow (or just a few extra suitcases). Step inside, and you’re met with a beautifully refined seven-seat cabin enriched with thoughtful details, intuitive Google integration, and advanced driver assistance features that elevate every journey with ease and sophistication.
It was here, amid both the journey and the destination, that Testoni found a balance between exploration and stillness. From long country roads to moments of quiet reflection, she shares with RUSSH how a weekend in the Highlands helps her reconnect with herself, her creativity, and the simple rituals that matter most.
Was this your first time out in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales? What was the experience like?
It wasn’t my first time – I’ve been here twice before – and I love coming back. There’s something about the sharp, clean air and leaving the city behind that just feels like a reset. I love wandering through the small towns, popping into quiet cafés and restaurants that feel like home, and being met by locals who make you feel instantly welcome.
What makes the area so special for a weekend escape?
When you live and work in the city, the Highlands feel like another world. It's just a drive away, but far enough to leave the daily routine behind. The air is sharper, the hills roll on, and the farms are so beautifully kept. During evenings by the fire, a glass of wine in hand, time slows; there’s nowhere to be. Days consist of town visits, vintage finds, bush walks, cafés that feel like home. It’s the kind of place that helps me relax and reset.
The journey out is such a beautiful part of the trip. What was the drive like?
The drive was easy and comfortable. Once you leave the city, it’s pretty much one road straight to the Southern Highlands. I love having big, comfy seats, a smooth ride, and a great playlist – it makes the journey so enjoyable and relaxed.
You were behind the wheel of the new Volvo XC90 this weekend. What were some of the best-loved features of the car?
Yes, I was! It’s such a beautiful, luxurious car – spacious, smooth to drive, and enjoyable to be in. It has a plug-in hybrid engine which really helped to deliver a smoother, more effortless acceleration on those winding country roads. Plus, the on-demand all-wheel drive gave me more confidence in changing conditions (especially with all the rain recently!).
I loved the large, supportive leather seats (the built-in massager was a definite highlight), the panoramic sunroof, air purification, and the intuitive, Google-powered touchscreen, which was so easy to navigate. It's a 7-seater SUV, and the boot space is very generous – it would be perfect for comfortably bringing along the whole family too. The 360-degree cameras also made parking so stress-free. Honestly, driving it just feels fun.
What’s on your essential pack list for a weekend escape?
For a weekend like this, I take warm comfortable clothes that you can explore and relax in, a great book, a good pair of boots, a hat and my skincare – plus a good face mask!
Who was on your road trip soundtrack?
Such a mix. I love so many different genres of music. Chris Staples, Richy Mitch & The Coal Miners, Royel Otis, Van Morrison, Smokie, Cloud Control, The Hollies.
What moments from the trip helped you reconnect most with yourself and nature?
I stayed at Osborn House while I was there, and it’s such a beautiful place. The old grand residence has been stunningly restored, and I loved spending time in my cabin with the fire on, reading and just relaxing. Funny enough, these quiet moments often spark my best work ideas. I also love being outdoors, so the walk to Fitzroy Falls was a highlight, and the forest bathing deck in the woods was incredible. And there’s nothing quite like a hot spa outdoors in winter – it feels indulgent and grounding all at once.
How did slowing down for simple pleasures impact your mindset over the weekend?
Having a couple of nights to myself feels like a real luxury. Stepping away from the day-to-day noise and routine gives me space to reset, reflect, and reconnect with what’s truly important.
