OMG, it’s time to plan the annual group catch-up. Right now, everyone’s throwing ideas into the chat. The vibes? Cute country town. Not too busy. Not too far to drive. Something for the foodies. Some wine tasting. A wine tour like you’re in France, but no planes please, because we’re tired.
How about Rylstone?
It ticks all the boxes. Located close to Mudgee, but with a different “country town” experience. Home to a cosy, heritage-lined main street of cute little shops. Vineyards on one side of town, olive groves on the other. Markets on a Saturday morning. An itinerary just made for a long weekend stay, so you can truly relax, reconnect and recharge.
So, where are we going to stay? The chat mood is country chic. Waking up in a big, broad bed and opening the curtains onto farm fields under a hilly horizon. Wait, was that a dream or just something you saw in Country Style? Either way, you’re going to live your cottage core best life at Wandarra Homestead. Located up a country road just outside Lue village, get ready to sink into a different kind of getaway here. Comfort, elegance and country charm, surrounded by expansive mountain views and interiors you’ll instantly be pinning on your vision board.
Oh, and did we mention the secret trapdoor? Grab the cocktail essentials and climb down the ladder into the cellar speakeasy. For the rest of the evening, you’re pouring drinks at Lue’s most exclusive underground bar, Grandma’s Tipsy.
The foodies are in charge of planning your next adventure, and you’re kicking things off with oil tasting at Rylstone Olive Press. The team will walk you through the oil making process, from the olive grove through the press and into bottles that are winning trophies in Paris, London and New York. You’ll soak a bit of bread into fresh oil, pop it into your mouth, and oh man, the foodies have nailed this one. This is oil like you’ve never tasted, fresh off the farm.
A local lunch must-do is 29 Nine 99 Yum Cha & Tea House. Na Lan is Rylstone’s beloved dumpling chef, bringing a taste of Beijing to country Australia. Sit on the verandah and watch the town go by or settle into the courtyard under shady umbrellas. Order a set menu and let Na Lan and her team bring you a series of mouth-watering dumplings, your herbal tea of choice and a delicious dessert bun.
Now, who first suggested Rylstone? The shopper of the group. Typical. They always get it right. They’re leading you to the Convent and Chapel Wool Shop for a unique shopping experience. Famous among knitters, the Wool Shop has an enormous range of specialist wools, from just across the river or shipped from the Shetland Islands. Whether you’re a first timer or an experienced knitter, you’re going to find the needles you need, along with patterns, buttons, books and more. Every colour of the rainbow is here in wools, most of it from tiny boutique wool dyers around Australia. And if you’re getting a little chilly, you might even be able to pick up a beanie or a scarf.
Next, it’s the wine lovers’ time to shine and they’re taking you to the other side of town to De Beaurepaire Wines. Rylstone’s De Beaurepaire family is making French wine in country NSW. How? They found the one landscape in Australia that’s a perfect match for the soil and climate of Burgundy in France. On this 200-hectare homestead, historic stables have been converted into comfortable tasting rooms. Sit outside under the trees, sip a sparkling rosé, and it’s exactly like you’re having that French wine tour after all.
All good country folk know the pub is the real centre of the community, and you’re going to love the authentic country pub experience offered at the Globe Hotel. Settle in among the local characters to get a taste of the real Rylstone. If you time it right, there’s darts nights, the local permaculture meet-up, markets on the green and live music in the front bar. The bistro serves an ever-changing menu, heavy on local produce, prepared entirely in-house. No wonder it’s a favourite dinner spot for the locals!
So, the foodies are full. The wine lovers are going home with a dozen bottles. You’ve had your “lush country cottage stay” experience. And everyone is knitting. It’s time to leave Rylstone, but it’s safe to say Rylstone won't be leaving you for a very long time…
