10 ways to pretend you’re a local on your next visit to Mudgee Region

Living in a small country town just hits different.

There’s no traffic, no commute, no escalators, and a hell of a lot more wide, open spaces to roam.

Want to *really* fit in with the locals on your next Mudgee Region visit?

Here’s a few things you need to know…

  1. Nail the reverse angle park - most of Mudgee’s parking is reverse angle only, so if you haven’t swung your car in backwards since your driving test, now’s the time to brush up on your skills.
  2. Fall in love with roundabouts - fun fact: there’s no traffic lights in Mudgee. But what we lack in lights, we make up for in roundabouts, so practice your roundabout driving, toot sweet.
  3. Know your wine - locals know a thing or two about wine. Don’t know your pinot noir from your pinot grigio? Do your homework before you visit, or better yet, pop to a Mudgee Region cellar door or two and take notes!
  4. Shop small, shop local - every time you shop in a local store, a small business owner does a happy dance. Mudgee is a region of small businesses and the locals love to support their entrepreneurial mates. You should do the same…
  5. Stop rushing! Country living is all about slowing down, chilling out and embracing a less frantic pace of life. Locals love a leisurely coffee date at Alby + Esthers, a long lunch at The Cellar by Gilbert or an amble amongst Mudgee Fine Foods’ monthly market stalls - no deadlines in sight…
  6. Country pubs are hidden gems - country pubs have come a long way from sticky beer mats, dated carpet and over-cooked schnitzel. Mudgee Region’s pubs, like the Paragon Hotel, the Oriental Hotel (the Ori to the locals!), the Woolpack Hotel and the Prince Of Wales in Gulgong, are what country pubs should be - warm and inviting with delicious food, local wine and beer on-tap and some seriously good cocktails.
  7. Cellar doors are not just for adults - forget the parks, a weekend play date is all about wine. Oh, and space for the kids to play. Many of the cellar doors are family-friendly, with playgrounds, kid-friendly menus and more. Try Lowe Family Wine Co for farm animals & garden grazing or Clover Cellars for cordial & outdoor games.
  8. The clock tower is your true north - locals orientate everything in the CBD from the clock tower. Trying to find a cafe or shop on Market or Church Street? Give directions in relation to proximity from the clock tower. And if you get lost? Stand at the clock tower and shout for help.
  9. Act surprised when you see farm animals in town. Yes, seriously. From a rabbit that roams the streets with its owner, to a local who travels via horse and buggy, you never know just where a farm animal will pop up.
  10. We’re not just about wine - yes, we love wine. But the region is SO much more than its cellar doors. From stunning natural attractions, to arts and culture, wellness and more, the locals recommend you come for the wine, but stay for everything else the region has to offer.