Guys, let’s put the iPads down. The kids have had more than enough screen time – and honey, so have you. You’ve just binged all six seasons of Selling Sunset; seriously, it’s enough.
We all need to get outside, breathe in the fresh country air and feel the grass between our toes. We need to go somewhere where the kids can be kids. That they can run under the sprinkler, ride their bikes for days and roast marshmallows under the stars.
And if there happens to be a bar there for the adults, that wouldn’t hurt.
Enter a much-needed escape to Mudgee – where the wine is chilled, the sunsets are stellar and there’s plenty of space for the kids to roam, play and explore.
Start your visit at Clover Cellars, located a stone’s throw from the CBD.
Here, the kids can cut loose, while the adults taste their way through the Hop & Clover range of locally brewed beers.
There’s a giant chess set, footballs, *and* you can fish in the lake – it’s a child’s paradise.
And if you come on the right weekend, the family-friendly activities extend to everything from yabby races to rocking out at a kids’ rave (yes, really).
The visiting food truck pulls up on Saturdays, and musicians are always dropping in to add to the ambience.
These brewers even make a fresh fruit soda that’s refreshing for all ages, and a gin that’s refreshing for the grown-ups.
A little further up the road, lunch is being served at 791 Estate.
Expect to be treated like family – Fiona the owner and Brendan the winemaker will instantly make you feel like you’re at home - washing up aside.
This is a small-batch winery with a café-style menu (don’t miss the monthly pizza and wine nights!) and a vibe that’s a glimpse of country living.
There’s chickens wandering the grounds, a firepit ready for the cooler evenings and enough space for a game of cricket.
It’s just like you’re chilling in Fiona’s backyard – because you are.
When you’re ready for more adventure, take the drive out to Ganguddy–Dunn’s Swamp, near Rylstone.
This is a gorgeous and serene waterway, surrounded by bushland.
Yes, there are easy bushwalking tracks, but the ultimate way to experience Ganguddy is by kayak.
Hire a kayak from Southern Cross Kayaking, or join a guided tour and paddle out to explore the waterways, cliffs and caves that can’t be reached on foot.
And when you’ve had enough? Pitch a tent for the night under the starlit sky (ahhhh, bliss).
If you prefer your nature with a side of comfort, Peppertree Farm offers a range of accommodation options spread across its 250 acres of farmland.
The woolshed has been converted into luxurious accommodation, while the homestead has room for a few families; every cottage combines modern luxury with rustic charm for a quintessential rural stay.
Quiet and comfortable, with heaps of space for the family to explore, it’s farm life without the pre-dawn milking, but with room to move, peace and quiet, and views of the Mudgee hills.
Dinner is at Club Mudgee – the family-friendly hotspot in the centre of town.
Let the kids climb the outdoor playground while you hit the Sports Bar.
Hot tip: try the lychee martini; you won’t regret it!
And if you’re more of a craft beer type, Club Mudgee has an impressive range.
You can’t go wrong at the bistro either – the roast is great, the Rogan Josh is a delight and the chicken schnitzel is…
Now that I think about it, I might just head there for a schnitty tonight.
PSA: kids eat free on Sundays, so plan your visit accordingly.
Before you head home, make sure you visit 10’s Estate and sample produce from their organic orchard.
During cherry season, grab your hat and bucket, and make your way into the cherry orchard to pick the fruit straight off the tree.
They’re rosy, juicy, and sweet, and so fresh you can taste it.
And you should feel free to taste test – one for the bucket, one for the mouth, and repeat until the bucket (or your stomach!) is full.
Whilst the cherry season might be over at this orchard, drop by for the cherry and fig produce..
And if the kids still have energy to burn (or you secretly do too), head over to the Mudgee Pump Track and Glen Willow’s Multi-Sport Court. Bring a bike, scooter, ball, or even just your competitive spirit, and let the family go wild – ramps, hoops, goals and more, all set in the great outdoors. Who knew exercise could be this fun?
Remember what it was like being a kid on holidays?
No phones, no work on Monday morning, no responsibilities – just climbing trees, running through the long grass, cherry juice dribbling down your chin as you spit the seeds out on the ground. Sigh.
The good news? It’s still here waiting for you in Mudgee…
