The Mudgee Region has character-filled towns and villages, each with their own character and stories to tell.
Hit the open road, take the scenic route, and give yourself time to explore. The Mudgee Region isn’t just one place — it’s a collection of small towns and villages, each with its own character and charm. Step beyond the featured towns of Mudgee, Gulgong, Rylstone, and Kandos, and you’ll discover quiet corners, colourful local communities, and spots where the welcome is as warm as the weather. Whether you’re after fresh air and solitude or lively local experiences, every stop has something worth exploring.
Australia’s own “Grand Canyon” — second only in size to the world’s largest — the World Heritage-listed Capertee Valley offers towering escarpments, wide-open skies, and adventure at every turn. Stop at Pearson’s Lookout for awe-inspiring views, hike, ride, birdwatch, or even soar above it all by helicopter. Camp under the stars or stay in one of the valley’s retreats and keep an ear out for the endangered Regent Honeyeater. The town of Capertee is a handy pit stop for food and fuel before heading into the wilderness.
A pastoral escape of rolling green hills and river bends, Bylong Valley is perfect for a scenic summer drive. This sleepy valley rewards with spectacular scenery and quirky local stories! Follow Bylong Valley Way to connect to Hunter Valley and Rylstone.
Cooyal’s lively pub is a classic pit stop for a cold one and a hearty meal.
Wollar marks the gateway to Goulburn River National Park. Pitch a tent at Big River or Spring Gully campgrounds, or hike up Castle Rock in Munghorn Gap Nature Reserve for breathtaking panoramic views.
A village full of surprises — historic train track, pub, pottery, farm stays, olive oil tastings, and motocross tracks. Keep an eye out for koalas snoozing in the treetops. Lue Road connects to Mudgee and Rylstone.
Coal truck spotting aside, Ulan is a treasure for locals and curious travellers alike. Drop by the Ulan Pub for the infamous beef jerky, stretch your legs along The Drip Walking Track, and discover ancient Aboriginal art at Hands on Rock. Ulan Road connects to Mudgee and Hunter Valley; Cope Road links to Gulgong.
The veteran of the region’s gold towns, Hargraves invites you to pop into its old general store and soak in a slice of village life. Surrounding creeks and gullies are perfect for fossicking.
This goldrush village proudly wears its history. Swing by the iconic local pub for a hearty feed, linger at farm stays or campsites, and try your luck fossicking for a little treasure.
Step back in time in this historic gold town, once home to 28 pubs and more than 8,000 people. Heritage buildings, old mining tunnels, and local fossicking spots tell the story of its past. Hill End also became an artists’ colony in the 1940s and remains a hub for creative inspiration. Access via Mudgee, Sofala, or the adventurous Bridle Track from Bathurst.
Tucked alongside the Turon River, Sofala is a snapshot of goldrush history. Hills once dotted with camps, a heritage main street, and a handful of film sets make it a charming stop. Free riverside camping spots let you linger and soak up the atmosphere. Connect via Castlereagh Highway or Hill End Road.
