Mudgee NSW was the first town in Australian Tourism Awards history to be inducted into the National Hall of Fame. The Mudgee Region couldn't be prouder of this achievement and a great reflection of the authentic country charm that Mudgee is renowned for.
“As I immerse myself in the charm of the Mudgee Region, indulging in a glass of local vino and savouring a locally sourced platter from the area's diverse produce offerings, I sense a profound inner rejuvenation. It's a time for appreciating authenticity set amongst deep history, rich culture & friendly people. A time for finding myself amongst the fertile vineyards & farmlands where chefs and winemakers skilfully craft experiences that delight the palate.”
This regional town in New South Wales stands out as a modern countryside destination, blending art and music with a commitment to quality food and wine. The community's strong sense of unity contributes to the sustainable development of tourism, creating an atmosphere that is both lively and intimate. Whether extending your stay or returning for another visit, exploring every facet of this place is a way to disconnect from stress and reconnect with yourself.
The allure of the Mudgee Region lies not only in its natural beauty and gastronomical delights but also in the vibrant yet close-knit community that supports its sustainable growth. Discovering the hidden gems of this region goes beyond a fleeting encounter; it's an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Jump in your car from Sydney for a 3.5-hour road trip northwest, over the Blue Mountains and past Lithgow.
Welcome to the enchanting Mudgee Region. Breathe in fresh country air and take in the wide-open spaces. It’s time to reset your senses.
Life is in the detour, 45 minutes before arriving in Mudgee, take a moment to explore one of the town’s neighbouring charming country villages – Rylstone. Boasting extraordinary heritage streetscapes, unexpected food and wine delights, and a contemporary boutique shopping scene, you’ll be eager to tell your friends about your gem of a find.
Drop into local favourite 29 Nine 99 for a bite to eat where owner and chef Na Lan has been serving authentic Chinese yum cha and tea since 2008. Here you’ll find more than 30 types of dumplings, steamed buns and desserts. Located in the original Bridge View Inn with sandstone features and a charming outdoor courtyard, the dumpling house was named after the date Na Lan married her husband, a local Rylstone artist, on 29.09.1999. Still hand-making the delicious dumplings today, Na Lan loves sharing her little slice of Australian paradise with all who pass through.
As you stroll the heritage high street, browse Folkologie’s collection of Australian handcrafted furniture, gifts and homewares and the Convent & Chapel Wool Shop who house a spectacular range of local and international yarns (getting crafty is tres chic, and knitting is on point – pardon the pun).
When you arrive in the town of Mudgee, you’ll find five star luxury in a self-contained cottage at boutique property Evanslea, just minutes from the centre of Mudgee but seemingly far from everything. You’ll arrive in style as you enter the beautiful grounds, nestled alongside the Cudgegong River. Take time to explore and settle in, welcome to your temporary country home.
Take a stroll down Market Street to the new Mudgee Arts Precinct for a self-guided tour of the latest gallery exhibitions.
The architecturally designed building pays homage to the past and is also home to the multi-award-winning Mudgee Visitor Information Centre where the tourism crew are super helpful and passionate about where they live, they can give you a rundown on a few local hot spots and a copy of the FREE Mudgee Region Magazine to take home and share with friends or help plan your next visit) and purchase local produce, wine and wares from their country chic visitor information hub.
If you forget anything, no stress — Mudgee Region Tourism has a local produce online hamper store. You can get Mudgee deliciousness delivered to your door year-round!
Evening
Time to let your taste buds do the talking at Three Tails Brewery — you’ll find 18 taps of fresh craft beers and a huge selection of local wines sourced from independent producers. Dine on-site with Smokin Bro & Co. for a drool-worthy low and slow BBQ experience cooked with fire, smoke and passion.
Wake-up invigorated in the fresh country air and get ready to immerse yourself in Mudgee’s iconic local produce and wine scene.
Take the short drive into town and fill your basket with local produce, to prepare a self-cooked breakfast back at your accommodation. Visit the Mudgee Corner Store, where you can pick up an outstanding coffee and breakfast, to keep you fuelled for the day ahead. They’re all about keeping it real, delicious and fuss-free so you’ll also find a sustainable selection of incredible local produce including fetta from award-winning High Valley Cheese Co., Steins Farm Produce, Farmer Brown Pastured Eggs, The Little Big Dairy Company milk and Fish River Roasters barista coffee.
When you’re ready Country Kombi will collect you at 10am for a private full day ‘Foothills Wine Tour’.
Situated on the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range, Mudgee Region has some of the highest vineyards in Australia, ranging from 450-1180m above sea level. Frosts and cold nights delay budburst; rainfall and humidity are low, sunshine hours are great, and irrigation is essential on some of the most favoured sites.
Many tree changers now call the region home, taking a slice of their city life and gently connecting it with the authenticity of the country. What this means is visitors have an abundance of sophisticated yet grounded experiences to indulge in.
The tour winds through Mudgee’s famous foothills in ‘Sabrina’ – Mudgee’s famous split-screen Kombi. Born in 1958 to proud VW parents, Sabrina had been on a long journey before she found the love she was looking for in current owners Stu and Kersti – restoring her to her previous glory and finding her a new home in Mudgee.
The tour takes you to an amazing line-up of boutique cellar doors; Logan Wines, First Ridge, Skimstone, Moothi Estate (includes lunch) and Burrundulla Vineyards.
You’ll return to your accommodation around 4.30pm.
Relax in the comfort of your cottage, sip on a glass of local wine and simply take time to reconnect.
You’re on wine time now.
For an insta-worthy degustation dining experience head to Pipeclay Pumphouse located in the grounds of Robert Stein Winery. Pipeclay’s menus are created to pay homage to the surrounds and the produce it provides. They use simple techniques to accentuate the freshness of the produce, including matched wines. Pipeclay Pumphouse offers generous portions, combining fine dining with country hospitality and ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Today is all about discovery. You’ll meet passionate locals on your travels who will add to your story, keen to share tips on how to enrich your experience in their beloved town.
Today is all about discovery. You’ll meet passionate locals on your travels who will add to your story, keen to share tips on how to enrich your experience in their beloved town.
Join Balloon Aloft for a magical cruise across the skies of the region. Enjoying uninterrupted views across the valley as you float above vineyards and get to enjoy the spectacle of the rolling hills.
Once you are back on the ground you will arrive back into Mudgee for breakfast at Cade Kitchen & Bar. Enjoying a morning coffee under the vines in the courtyard is the perfect way to charge the batteries for a day of shopping.
Afternoon
For lunch, you’ll find Alby + Esthers tucked down a cobblestone alleyway under a vine that changes with the seasons. The circa 1873 stone terrace Alby + Esthers calls home is packed with character and charm, friendly staff and a mouth-watering menu inspired by local produce. Choose a spot in the shaded courtyard for alfresco ambience or in the eclectic welcoming interiors of their art gallery with share tables. Sip coffee, kombucha, or local wines from an extensive list whilst dining on progressive fare.
You’ll find a fabulous boutique shopping trail in Mudgee, with shops stocking a curated collection of designer clothing, wardrobe essentials, accessories, art items and supplies, homewares and lifestyle pieces.
Time to relax back at your accommodation, soaking in all you’ve discovered so far about Mudgee.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Australian native foods, botanicals, culture and rituals at Warakirri by Indigiearth with a 5-course degustation dining experience.
Over four magical hours, enjoy Australian native food and beverages, prepared in a unique fusion of modern techniques and traditional methods.
Be transformed by authentic cultural entertainment, musical and cultural storytelling, and in-depth knowledge of Aboriginal culture and food, pioneered by owner and Ngemba Weilwan woman, Sharon Winsor. Warakirri means to ‘grow with us’.
This is bush tucker dining at its finest and showcases the beauty of 60,000 years of culture. Warakirri is 100% Aboriginal owned and operated, it champions the development and employment of Indigenous people.
After your indulgent bushtucker dining experience you may not want the night to end, and if that’s the case head over to NSW’s oldest wine bar Roth’s Wine Bar & Cellar for a night cap, live music and guaranteed chill local vibes.
Pack your bags and bid farewell to your hosts – you know you’ve made lifelong friends at Evanslea.
No need for breakfast as you’ll take in a private cooking class with Tamara at The Little Cooking School — an informal, relaxed, creative space located on the outskirts of town. Offering casual cooking classes suited to all skill levels, this is a fabulous opportunity to roll up your sleeves and explore a passion for food – ending your class with an early lunch, indulging in what you’ve made from the best of the region’s local produce, paired with a glass of local wine.
Time to head home to Sydney, but not before you take a short detour to the gorgeous heritage village of Gulgong, just a 20-minute drive from Mudgee.
On the way, you’ll find Mudgee Honey Haven – worth stopping in to explore one of the things Mudgee is most famous for. They stock the widest selection of honeys that you’re welcome to taste before you decide on your favourites to take home. Watch bees hard at work through a special glass window, offering a glimpse of all the action that takes place in a working beehive. Think honey mead, honey ice cream and even honey infused beauty and personal care goods.
Arrive in Gulgong and marvel with this historic goldmining town, circa 1870, it’s sure to enchant and enrich your Mudgee experience. Known for its fascinating museums and heritage streetscapes, you’ll instantly feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. Stroll through the original and narrow bent streets with high footpaths; be amazed by the traditional craftsmanship of the gorgeous heritage buildings.
Discover the heritage of the area at interactive spaces like the Gulgong Holtermann Museum. The volunteers who graciously give up their time to host this museum are all too eager to share their passion and knowledge.
Classically country and a little quirky, Prince of Wales Hotel Gulgong is the place to drop in for a cold beverage, live music and a local yarn. This place exudes old world charm and character.
As you unpack your Mudgee Region mementos (perhaps organising a dinner gathering with friends), take a reflective pause to consider the moments spent embracing the road less travelled. Treasure the time spent with friends, family and the discoveries found along the way, remembering that the authentic connections made with Mudgee's locals, eagerly awaits your next visit.
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