Industry experts revealed the venue was sold for about $16 million to a Sydney-based hotelier, who plans to relocate his family to the Highlands.

It was put up for sale via expression of interest, which closed in July, and was predicted to fetch $20 million by experts.

It was listed for sale by HTL Property directors Sam Handy and Blake Edwards.

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Owner and operator Tom Porter, who has plans to retire and travel, said his family has "thoroughly enjoyed our 35 years at the Moss Vale Hotel".

"A lot of blood, sweat and tears goes into owning and operating a hotel for this length of time," he said.

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"Accordingly, there are countless happy moments and memories attached to this place for my family, however it's time for us to pass the torch onto someone else and we're delighted that that person is a successful hotelier."

Mr Edwards said the property attracted competitive offers from the Highlands, Sydney, Canberra, Queanbeyan, Goulburn and Wollongong.

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