Most people know the Mudgee Region as a charming escape nestled in the heart of New South Wales, renowned for its world-class wines, breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.
While our Region’s iconic attractions are well-loved, there’s a whole world of hidden gems and new experiences waiting to be discovered.
For those seeking to avoid the crowds and forge their own paths, the Mudgee Region offers a wealth of unique experiences. Venture off the beaten track and discover secluded vineyards, hidden trails and charming local businesses that offer a glimpse into the true essence of the region.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to uncover the Mudgee Region’s secret treasures. From off-the-beaten-path walks and boutique cellar doors to newly opened products and seasonal delights, there’s something for everyone to explore.
So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the hidden gems of the Mudgee Region.
Beyond the well-known wineries, Mudgee boasts a thriving community of boutique cellar doors, each offering a unique and intimate experience. These hidden gems often produce limited-edition wines, showcase unique grape varieties, and reflect the personal passion of dedicated winemakers.
By venturing off the beaten path and exploring these smaller cellar doors, you’ll discover hidden treasures that offer a personalised and authentic experience.
Nestled amidst picturesque vineyards, McIntosh Estate Mudgee is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Their newly opened rustic shed cellar door offers visitors the opportunity to savour their exceptional range of wines while enjoying breathtaking scenery of the surrounding vineyard and mountains – a view that must be seen to be believed!
Come and experience the true essence of the Mudgee Region at McIntosh Estate.
Small Batch Brewery is a small-scale, owner-operated microbrewery and hop farm offering a unique and sustainable experience. Producing limited-release beers using locally sourced ingredients, they showcase the region’s agricultural diversity.
Committed to environmental sustainability, the brewery utilises solar, rain and spring water in their brewing process.
Discover this boutique brewery and savour the flavours of Mudgee Region’s craft beer scene.
Heslop Wines is a boutique family vineyard and winery in the heart of the Mudgee Region. Their aim is to ‘tread lightly’, producing small batches of handcrafted premium wine with grapes from their vineyard and select local growers. At Heslop Wines each season brings something different, but their aim is always the same – from the vineyard to the winery to the cellar door and beyond, their wines are made with care at every step.
Indulge yourself in warm, generous hospitality at Short Sheep Micro-Winery & Farm. Enjoy a relaxed and delicious combination of distinctive and genuinely small-batch wines carefully paired with local produce. Served with storytelling, fun banter and often informative insights, Short Sheep offers one of the Region’s best kept secret experiences.
Martins Hill Organic Wines is a small, family-owned organic vineyard with a sensational view of the rolling vineyards and hills of the Mudgee Region. Their approach embodies a profound commitment to sustainability and quality, and their dedication to organic practices underscores respect for the land.
In an era of industrialised production, Martins Hill Organic Wines is reminiscent of the way it used to be – hand-worked with attention to detail and minimal impact.
The Mudgee Region receives acclaim for our luxurious range of accommodation options and we continue to grow in this area. Our new and boutique accommodation options are sure to impress even the most discerning traveller. Read through to hear all about exciting new accommodation options now available.
Newly opened, The Clairfield Hotel offers a luxurious retreat near the heart of Mudgee. With 57 impeccably designed guest rooms and suites, each featuring a unique blend of modern elegance and rustic charm, The Clairfield provides the perfect base for your Mudgee adventure. Indulge in the hotel’s luxurious amenities, including an enclosed heated pool, state-of-the-art gym and relaxing steam room.
Inspired by the clear fields of Mudgee, The Clairfield Hotel emanates warmth and an approachable atmosphere. The staff is dedicated to providing personalised service and introducing guests to the local community. With a focus on turning visitors into friends, The Clairfield strives to create unforgettable experiences that will bring you back again and again.
Tucked away in the beautiful Mudgee countryside, Piambong Tops is a designer cabin offering a secluded and unforgettable retreat. Nestled atop a ridge, the cabin boasts breathtaking views and a private playground for exploration.
Enjoy the rustic charm of the cabin’s exterior, while delight in modern luxury with high-end finishes and designer touches. The cabin features a full bathroom, kitchenette, queen bedroom and living room/second bedroom, making it perfect for solo travellers, couples or two friends. With its expansive windows, open-pitched ceilings and luxurious amenities, Piambong Tops is a hidden gem that offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Nearby in the picturesque Spicers Creek region, Budgalong is a luxury safari-style lodge that offers a unique and unforgettable experience off the beaten track making it a hidden gem. Embrace the wilderness while indulging in the comforts of this Australian country lifestyle retreat. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, Budgalong’s glamping accommodation provides guests with the opportunity to slow down and reconnect with nature. Experience a sense of belonging and well-being as you immerse yourself in the simplicity of life in a remote environment.
As a family-owned and operated farm, Budgalong values sustainability and conservation, ensuring that the land is preserved for future generations.
Beyond the well-known wineries and charming town centre, Mudgee offers a wealth of undiscovered experiences waiting to be explored. From indulging in delectable chocolate factory tours to embarking on off-the-beaten-path adventures, there’s a world of new experiences to uncover here.
Embark on a captivating tour of the Spencer Cocoa factory and gain insights into the chocolate-making process. Meet the talented chocolate maker, Luke Spencer, and learn about the journey of cocoa beans from Vanuatu to Mudgee.
Established in 2013, Spencer Cocoa is a renowned chocolate maker that produces award-winning ‘bean to bar’ chocolate using cocoa beans grown on the island of Malekula, Vanuatu.
In Mudgee, Spencer Cocoa roasts, stone-grounds and tempers the cocoa beans into a lively and delicious chocolate. Experience the distinctive flavour of one of Australia’s best single-origin chocolates made from the freshly roasted Vanuatu cocoa beans.
This unique experience is a must-do for chocolate lovers visiting Mudgee and must be pre-booked. Book your experience by clicking here.
Nestled within the World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park, Ganguddy (Dunns Swamp) offers a tranquil escape just a short drive from Kandos and Rylstone, which are 45 minutes drive from Mudgee. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of this wilderness area, featuring scenic canyons, towering cliffs, wild rivers, serene nature and a camping area.
Explore the remarkable pagoda rock formations of Ganguddy and enjoy a range of activities, including scenic walks, swimming, canoeing and camping.
Guided kayaking tours as well as kayak and stand up paddle board hire are available during school holidays and weekends from September to April through Southern Cross Kayaking.
Spring is the perfect time to visit Ganguddy and make the most of the spectacular Wollemi National Park!
In the historic town of Rylstone, just 45 minutes from Mudgee, The Country Plate is a charming store offering a delightful range of gourmet products. Renowned for her handcrafted rocky road, chocolate and chutney, Jenna, the owner of The Country Plate, has created a collection that celebrates the flavours of the Central West.
The Country Plate specialises in high-quality, small-batch, handmade food products. From cooking with her mother and grandmothers to baking for the local farmers market, Jenna’s passion for food has always been evident. In addition to her delicious treats, The Country Plate also offers a curated selection of homewares and other unique items. Whether you’re looking for a thoughtful gift or a taste of the region, you’ll find something special at The Country Plate.
Gigi's is a 70-seat contemporary restaurant offering inventive Australian cuisine with an Italian influence and The Flour Bin is a 30-seat lounge for drinks and informal meals – both are housed in the newly opened Clairfield Hotel. Executive Chef Sam Potter’s vision is elevated yet approachable cuisine using the highest quality seasonal produce. The Mudgee Region is blessed with exceptionally talented artisans from cheese and chocolate to oils and meats, and the aim of Gigi’s and The Flour Bin is to support and showcase this community as much as possible.
Open daily for breakfast and Thursday to Sunday for dinner, you can reserve your table by clicking here.
