Driving into the heritage village of Rylstone feels like stepping into a well-kept secret. Picture dramatic mountain peaks, rolling green pastures, winding waterways and vineyards that quietly produce some seriously good drops – all backed by the natural beauty of the Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park. Unhurried, authentic and full of character, this little town punches well above its weight – from French-inspired wineries to lush rainforest hikes, Rylstone is full of surprises waiting to be explored.
Wander the historic main street where sandstone buildings now house boutique shops, cosy cafes and gourmet gems. Bite into steamy dim sum and yum cha in the sunlit courtyard of 29 Nine 99, an authentic Yum Cha and Tea House that locals literally drive miles for!
Whether you’re seeking a Rylstone memento or a treat, there’s no shortage of local epicurean delights at The Country Plate. Pick up hand-made Rocky Roads in four unique flavours, and don’t miss their date and almond chutney, sought after for its rich, sweet and spicy flavours. Those with a sweet tooth won’t be able to resist the nostalgic lollies and deluxe chocolates found in the Lollipop Shop – a family favourite filled with locally crafted toys, gifts and eats. If knitting is your thing, drop into the iconic Convent and Chapel Wool Shop, showcasing artisan yarns sourced locally and internationally. Drop in to Sisters Bazaar Rylstone for sustainable, fair trade and cruelty free products, and for one of kind gorgeous furniture, homewares and gifts, visit Folkologie.
Drop into The Rylstone Club or The Globe Hotel for a meal, refreshing beverage and have a yarn with the few locals. Pull up a stool at the bar, test your skills with a game of pool or darts and enjoy being a part of this friendly community. Feeling like something a little more spicy? Pepino's Mexican Restaurant is a local dinner favourite - don't miss the fish tacos!
Rylstone’s vineyards are among the country’s best, and where good vines grow, gourmet masterminds follow. The charming De Beaurepaire Wines began crafting drops of French-style wine in 1998, inspired by the limestone terroir similar to that of Burgundy in France. Since then, the family-run vineyard has made a name for itself, lauded for its elegant minimal intervention wines and intimate experiences. Book a private Tour du Vin tasting to sample the estate’s signature wines, or enjoy a gourmet picnic snacking on hamper goodies overlooking the vines.
Rylstone is a viticulture hub, and with a climate primed for wine, it’s no surprise that the region is also peppered with olive groves – and not just any olives at that. Rylstone Olive Press claims to produce Australia’s best virgin olive oil, and the worldwide awards adorning its walls are a testament to that. Stop by to learn more about the natural extraction process and sample their collection of five oils yourself, each named after a New South Wales river.
Rylstone isn’t just a place for gourmands, but water lovers too – nestled on the edge of Lake Windamere and enveloped by bushland sits Cudgegong Waters Park. This tranquil locale abounds with activities, attracting families from all over New South Wales. Think waterskiing, sailing, kayaking, fishing and swimming in the sun-drenched lake. Come evening, barbeques and campfires are coupled with lake views and majestic sunsets. Pitch a tent at a powered or unpowered spot, or switch off in a cabin complete with a kitchenette, ensuite and BBQ. If you’re seeking a campsite closer to civilisation, Rylstone Caravan Park offers the best of both worlds, being a stone’s throw away from the town centre while sitting near the banks of the Cudgegong River.
The adventures don’t stop there. Ferntree Gully could well be Rylstone’s best-kept secret. This short (but extremely sweet) 2.8 km walking circuit invites you to explore the breathtaking rainforest and its intriguing scenery of unique rock formations, lush vegetation and trickling waterfalls. A mecca for birdlife, you won’t be hard-pressed to spot lyrebirds, a generally shy and elusive species, among other native Australian wildlife.
The World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park is as vast as it is magnificent. Spanning from the Blue Mountains all the way to Rylstone, it’s the largest declared wilderness area in New South Wales. Imagine a patchwork of awe-inspiring walking trails, rugged rivers carved between dramatic clifftops and canyons, and waterfalls.
Adventure is Wollemi’s middle name, and Rylstone’s got front-row seats to the action. Pack up your things to enjoy a nature-filled weekend at Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp Campground, where the tranquil waterway meets the scribbly gum forest. Glide over the river with Southern Cross Kayaking to immerse yourself in the landscape, lace up your trainers to seek out the vistas from the Pagoda Lookout Walking Track, or simply sit peacefully, soaking in the scenery.
