About Us
About the Estate.
Set across 200 acres of rolling hills and manicured gardens in the heart of the Southern Highlands, Bendooley Estate is a place where history, beauty, and community come together. Loved by locals and visitors alike, the Estate has long been a place for gathering, celebrating, and creating memories that last a lifetime.
Bendooley Estate has been shaped by over two centuries of history. In 1818, the land, originally granted by Governor Lachlan Macquarie, passed from Sir William Henry Moore to his sister Anne on her marriage to William Cordeaux, a prominent colonial official. The Estates grand Georgian homestead, European trees, and cool-climate gardens reflect its early 19th-century origins. In 1919, Sir James Murdock acquired the property and planted the avenue of European trees that still lines the Estate’s entrance today.
Almost sixty years would pass before Leo Berkelouw, a fifth-generation antiquarian bookseller, purchased the property, relocating his family and thriving Sydney book business and establishing the Berkelouw Book Barn. What began as a quaint teahouse has grown into a celebrated destination for books, dining, and wine, welcoming generations of visitors who love to explore its unique charm.
Today, under Paul and Katja Berkelouw, Bendooley Estate is recognised as one of Australia’s premier rural estates. Their passion for viticulture, paddock-to-plate cuisine, and authentic experiences has transformed the family Estate into a vibrant destination for weddings, events, and unforgettable moments. From historic pathways and magnificent trees to beautifully restored interiors and welcoming cottages, every corner invites guests to explore, celebrate, and connect. It is a place where tradition meets innovation, history meets luxury, and every visit is an extraordinary experience.
Our Team
Behind every experience at Bendooley Estate is our remarkable team of over 150 dedicated people. From chefs and managers, to event planners, winemakers, book buyers, gardeners and tradesmen, each brings care, creativity, and a shared passion for excellence. Loyal, hardworking, and deeply connected to the Estate, they’re the heart of everything we do, ensuring every guest feels welcomed, every detail is considered, and every moment unforgettable; curating truly exceptional experiences.