One of those charming country towns. Boasting an extraordinary streetscape, unique boutique shops and unexpected foodie delights, it’s a great weekend town for shoppers and families that you just can’t wait to tell your friends about.
In the rustic heritage town of Rylstone, via the famous Bylong Valley Way, a broad range of exceptionally tasty modern food awaits.
Fast becoming known for its wineries, yum cha + tea house, bespoke boutique shops and local gastronomic delights, Rylstone is sure to intrigue and reward curious visitors. All this, coupled with some of the most spectacular scenery in the region, we guarantee you will be surprised and delighted with what you find.
The district was settled in the 1820’s, making it one of the oldest settlements west of the Great Dividing Range. Rylstone’s charming 19th century photogenic buildings were constructed in the Victorian and Interwar period. With a wonderful streetscape of 19th century sandstone public houses, cottages, and government buildings and 1920’s era stores, it’s worth taking the time to wander the streets and capture its essence.
The town also acts as a gateway to the World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park and the beautiful Bylong Valley, boasting some of the most spectacular natural heritage in the region. So nature-lovers, get your hiking boots on and explore the nearby wonders including Ganduddy and Ferntree Gully.
Growing each year in its popularity, the main street of Rylstone is also home to the district’s premier annual event ‘StreetFeast’ in November. Louee Street closes to traffic and opens to festival-goers, with a street market celebrating local food, produce, wine, art and craftwork. Settle into the afternoon with a long table, long lunch surrounded by friends and locals, where live music and an electric atmosphere blend perfectly with the street scene.
Bustling and vibrant over weekends, catering for shoppers and browsers, take a stroll around this must-visit town to browse unique boutiques and local arts + shops, including a famous wool shop, collectibles and old wares, and an Aboriginal art gallery. Enjoy a leisurely lunch, a delicious afternoon tea or sip an ice-cold beer at one of the local pubs.
The Showground in Rylstone is the prettiest in the district and the Annual Show is a colourful fun family event – all set in the lovely natural ampitheatre facing the Cudgegong River behind the shops of Louee Street. The river is also a great spot for platypus spotting early in the morning, if you’re lucky!
Just a three-and-half-hour road trip or 50-minute flight from Sydney, you’ll find an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you’re looking for the romance of a country escape or a place to celebrate with friends, or have a desire to explore our region’s heritage, you will find a great range of lodging options making Mudgee Region the obvious choice for your next getaway. There’s such diversity in the region: a great mix of restaurants, pubs, clubs all with different offerings. Art has grown over the last few years with galleries, museums, sculptures in the parks; attracting artists from all over the world. Our world-class wines and wineries offer so many different varieties to suit every palate with the winemaker themselves, in most cases, on-hand to enhance the experience.
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