The Very Best Things To Do In Mudgee Australian Traveller Australian Traveller

There’s more to Mudgee than just eating and drinking – although there is a lot of that, too.

Mudgee is well known as one of the country’s best wine regions, but alongside its award-winning drops, you’ll also discover enchanting nature experiences, a cultural hub of activities and plenty of memorable eats. Here, find the best things to do in Mudgee.

1. Cycle the wineries with Tour de Vine

Fresh air, country roads and an intense concentration of cellar doors – Mudgee is a mecca ready and waiting for wine lovers. Hop on a bicycle and explore some of the finest scenery and fecund food baskets in all of Australia.

Couple on bicycles in vineyard — Hop on a bicycle and explore some of the finest wineries.

The Tour de Vines ‘Tour de Mudgee’ self-guided cellar door cycling tour will see you roll between vineyards with relative ease.

cheese and wine at Logan Wines, Mudgee — Sample wines while admiring the scenic landscape in Logan Wines. (Image: Destination NSW)

Indulge in a long lunch at Logan Wines , devour an Italian-style aperitivo board at First Ridge , sample the range of High Valley Cheese at The Cellar by Gilbert and go underground at Pieter Van Gant.

This is a great way to indulge in the region’s bounty of wine and produce. And don’t worry about the wobbly ride home – if you have one too many wines, there’s a support vehicle on hand. Check out a full list of wineries and cellar doors in Mudgee to plan ahead.

First Ridge Wines in Mudgee — Explore First Ridge’s winery.

2. Marvel at Mudgee from the air with Balloon Aloft

A serene ride in a hot air balloon with Balloon Aloft is the perfect way to see Mudgee in all its glory. Set your alarm for an early start and meet at Cade’s Kitchen in Mudgee. Pile into the basket and ascend above one of the state’s most picturesque places.

a hot balloon in Mudgee, Balloon Aloft — See Mudgee in all its glory in a hot air balloon.

The morning sky will reveal views of the iconic vineyards below, as well as the townships of Rylstone, Kandos, Hill End and more. The sunrise balloon flights are approximately one hour in duration and are followed by a delicious Champagne breakfast back on land.

people riding a hot air balloon with Balloon Aloft, Mudgee — Drift through the Mudgee sky with Balloon Aloft.

3. Walk the Drip Gorge

The Drip Walking Track , located within the Goulburn River State Conservation Area, is a place of significance for the local Wiradjuri people. Fifty kilometres north of Mudgee, the 2.8-kilometre return walk follows alongside the Goulburn River to the Great Dripping Wall. Rainwater trickles through the porous rock face, creating a cool oasis that is usually 10 to 15 degrees cooler than the surrounding region on a hot day.

The rich diversity of plant life along the track is also one of its many marvels. Keep an eye out for native apple gums, tree violets (named for their scent) and rocky outcrops with orchids and moss. After your walk, cool down in the Goulburn River or marvel at ‘Hands on the Rock’ – the awe-inspiring rock site stencil made by the Wiradjuri people in Ulan.

4. See a performance at the Prince of Wales Opera House

Mudgee is home to the oldest, still-operating opera house in the southern hemisphere. The Prince of Wales Opera House was built in 1871 by John Hart Cogden and has provided a stage for some incredible operatic talent over the years, such as Dame Nelly Melba.

the Prince of Wales Opera House in Mudgee — The Prince of Wales Opera House is the oldest, still-operating opera house in the southern hemisphere.

The riches of the goldfields allowed an early impresario to engage some of the most famous performers of the time. Interestingly, Henry Lawson’s first experience at a theatre was at The Prince of Wales Opera House to see a performance of The Pirates of Penzance.

a look inside the Prince of Wales Opera House, Mudgee — Keep an eye out for upcoming shows at the Prince of Wales Opera House.

The theatre closed in the 1960s and remained so until its current owners, Gulgong Amateur Musical and Dramatical Society, restored it to its former glory. Keep an eye out for upcoming shows and stop by the Prince of Wales Hotel next door for fabulous pub fare or use it as a base to explore Gulgong’s charming surroundings and bed down in the award-winning accommodation.

the Prince of Wales Hotel in Mudgee — Check out the Prince of Wales Hotel next door.

5. Paddle onto the water with Southern Cross Kayaking

Diversify your food and wine trip to Mudgee by getting eye-level with nature out on the water.

Join a kayak tour or hire a paddleboard at Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp with Southern Cross Kayaking to wind along the pristine Cudgegong River that cuts its way through the Wollemi National Park.

a kayak by the side of Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp — Go kayaking at Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp. (Image: Destination NSW)

Follow it up with a walk through the park to discover intricately shaped rock faces and diverse wildlife waiting around every bend.

the Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp in Wollemi National Park — Bask in the serenity at Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp. (Image: Destination NSW)

6. Sip on a pint at Mudgee Brewing Co.

Mudgee’s only microbrewery is housed in a 100-year-old former wool store that was previously owned by the Anglican Church. Gary Leonard, a former coal miner, took ownership of the space in 2007 and transformed it into the thriving brewery it is today.

mash tuns used for brewing production in Mudgee Brewing Co. — Mudgee’s only microbrewery is housed in a 100-year-old former wool store. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inside, you’ll find a rotating list of the latest beers brewed onsite, live music two nights a week, an open mic night on Thursdays and trivia on Wednesdays and, unlike most breweries, this one goes the extra mile to offer table service. If you need a caffeine fix they also serve Fish River Roasters Coffee.

people dining inside Mudgee Brewing Co. — You’ll find a rotating list of the latest beers brewed onsite. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Finesse your skills at The Little Cooking School

Hone your culinary skills at The Little Cooking School. This informal, relaxed creative space offers casual cooking classes for the culinarily curious – no matter your skill level.

The class will take you through a three-course menu that showcases the best regional produce before concluding with lunch and selected local wines to match. Owner Tamara has more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality and commercial cooking industry and is renowned for throwing a good dinner party.

students enjoying a pasta dish at The Little Cooking School, Mudgee — Savour a three-course menu at The Little Cooking School. (Image: Destination NSW)

Prepare to leave with a full belly, some new recipes, tips and tricks, plus a few good stories as well. Classes are friendly and inclusive, so don’t be apprehensive about coming alone. You can also book as a group or enquire about a private class.

students enjoying their meals at The Little Cooking School, Mudgee — Afterwards, you can enjoy your self-prepared meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

8. Get your culture fix at Mudgee Art House

Mudgee Art House is a gallery/cafe hybrid located right in the heart of Mudgee’s main jaunt. It was established by local artists, Warwick and Toni Behrens, and serves as the perfect place to begin, process and complete all manner of creative works.

Stop by to view the latest exhibiting artists, peruse fine art supplies or participate in an engaging workshop. The space also offers a fine art-to-frame service for artists seeking professional imaging solutions that include fine art photography, Giclée on rag printing and archival framing.

It’s also the home of contemporary Australian Fauve painter WarBëhr, whose recognisable colourful animal paintings adorn the walls of many homes of the rich and famous. Come by to select your own original from the wall – and forget to pick up a superb coffee from the café.

9. Get to a Mudgee market

Given the incredible agricultural fertility of the Mudgee region, it’s not surprising you’ll encounter a market on just about every weekend of the month. From incredibly fresh produce and artisan wares to crafts and trinkets, you’re going to find something to fill your market basket.

Hello Lovelies handcrafted seasonal cordials stall at the fine food Farmers Markets in Mudgee — Pop by the farmers markets in Mudgee. (Image: Amber Hooper)

There’s the Church Markets and Makers Market on the first weekend of the month, the Lawson Park Markets on the second and the unmissable Mudgee Farmers’ Market on the third Saturday of the month – particularly good if you’re staying in a cosy Airbnb nearby and can cook yourself up a seasonal feast.

You’ll also find perfectly perusable markets in the nearby towns of Rylstone, Gulgong, Capertee and Kandos.

the fine food Farmers Markets held at St Mary's Catholic Church in Mudgee — You’ll find markets in St Mary’s Catholic Church in Mudgee. (Image: Amber Hooper)

10. Go wine-tasting, of course

Well, this one is a bit obvious. But it’s worth mentioning that with more than 35 cellar doors in the area, many of which are award-winning, the prepared wine-taster is the happiest wine-taster. You can’t possibly fit it all into one weekend, let alone one week, so make a sip-list and schedule them in. But if you’d rather take your hands off the wheel (quite literally) and let yourself be guided by local knowledge, book a tour.

pouring wine into the glass at Logan Wines, Mudgee — Sample premium wines. (Image: Destination NSW)

11. Eat, eat and repeat at Mudgee’s best restaurants

We all know the relationship between wine and food is co-dependent. One really can’t relish one without the other. Happily, Mudgee excels at both. With almost as many wonderful restaurants and eateries as there are cellar doors, you’re not going to be short on places to indulge your bacchanalian tendencies. Check out our top picks for dining out and be sure to book ahead if you’re visiting Mudgee at peak times.

the Zin House Restaurant in Mudgee — The Zin House is popular for long lunches. (Image: Destination NSW)

12. Absorb settler history at the Mudgee Museum

The 60,000-article-strong collection of the Mudgee Museum spans many buildings, serving as a bricks-and-mortar memory for the area’s past. The first European to access Mudgee was James Blackman in 1821, who set about erecting the first town building by 1837. No doubt his endeavours were watched with concern by the local Wiradjuri people, who must have known the inevitability of what was to come. Come it did and with it, grazing, goldrushes and eventually grapes.

antique objects inside Mudgee Museum — Browse through antique finds inside the Mudgee Museum. (Image: Heather McCormick)

Donated largely by local families, the objects of the museum offer a fascinating insight to early Mudgee and her surrounds. Whether you’re a history buff or casually curious, time perusing the past here is well-spent.

modern vinyl dolls at Mudgee Museum — The Mudgee Museum also features vintage dolls. (Image: Heather McCormick)

13. Go for gold on a fossicking excursion

The moment the first nugget was unearthed in Hargraves in 1851, the rush was on. Prospecting and panning kicked off from Gulgong to Windeyer, and Mudgee became the centre for all rush-related activity. While the gold fever peaked in the 1870s and then petered out, who’s to say they found it all? You can try your luck panning and fossicking for that life-changing nugget at a handful of sites in the region. You might be the one to dig up a find that rivals the world’s largest single mass of gold, which weighed 285 kilograms and was mined nearby at Hills End in 1872. The Cudgegong River has also been known to toss up the odd diamond, ruby and sapphire.

an aerial view of the Lake Windamere — The Cudgegong River has been known to toss up the odd diamond, ruby and sapphire. (Image: Destination NSW)

14. Hit the boutiques

Elevate your country style with a spin around the fashion boutiques and homewares stores of Mudgee.

At Cloth & Feather , you’ll find beautiful textiles, French linens, rugs and throws to warm your abode.

a look inside Cloth & Feather boutique shop in Mudgee — Come by Cloth & Feather for all things textiles. (Image: Amber Creative)

At the Convent and Chapel Wool Shop , pick up a luxury yarn to spin into a cosy jumper.

yarn and wool items on display at Convent and Chapel Wool Shop, Mudgee — Pick luxury yarn at Convent and Chapel Wool Shop. (Image: Mudgee Region Tourism)

There are sunny and bright interiors and attire to covet at Good Day Lifestyle Co , in Gulgon head to Wear It Out for a selection of gorgeous kids and ladies’ fashion and head to Be-Spoke to find an outfit worthy of a night out.

a blurry shot of a person walking inside the boutique shop of Good Day Lifestyle Co. in Mudgee — Head to Good Day Lifestyle Co. for artsy and chic homewares.

15. Discover local Indigenous culture

Explore Wiradjuri Country with Aboriginal-owned company Milan Dhiiyaan in Goulburn River National Park, where Traditional Owners will guide you through the bush via the lens of the Wiradjuri people. You’ll immerse in the ritual of a smoking ceremony, listen to stories from the land and hear songs in the language. Or deep-dive into the flavours of the Wiradjuri with the unique Warakirri dining experience , where native bush foods and botanicals dance across your palate throughout a refined five-course degustation crafted by Indigiearth founder and Ngemba Weilwan woman Sharon Winsor.

the Warakirri dining experience in Mudgee — Deep dive into Wiradjuri flavours with the unique Warakirri dining experience. (Image: Jacquie Manning)

16. Wander Wollemi National Park

Balance out a wine-heavy itinerary in Mudgee with a deep dive into nature. The impressive World Heritage-listed Wollemi National Park is an incredible wilderness within easy reach of Mudgee.

sunset over the Cudgegong River in Wollemi National Park — The sun sets majestically over the Cudgegong River in Wollemi National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

Sunlit escarpments, glass-top rivers and tranquil forests ease you into a mediative calm where life beyond seems to fade pleasantly into the background.

the Colo River via T3 Trail, Wollemi National Park — Explore the Colo River via the T3 Trail. (Image: Destination NSW)

Spend the day hiking trails, such as the heart-lifting, one-hour Pagoda Lookout walking track, explore the glow worm tunnel and unfurl your swag for the night at the Coorongooba campground.

sunset in Wollemi National Park — Capture the fiery sky over Wollemi National Park at sunset. (Image: Destination NSW)

17. Explore nearby Rylstone

An easy 40-minute drive from Mudgee is the charming town of Rylstone. Set by the majestic Cudgegong River, this sandstone cottage-strewn village is edged by national parks and festooned with wineries.

the Rylstone signage in Mudgee — Drive to the charming town of Rylstone. (Image: Destination NSW)

Living up to country ideals, a stroll along the main street is an agrarian treat, although it’s best paused for tea at the much-celebrated dumpling house, 29 Nine 99 .

the exterior of 29 nine 99 Yum Cha and Tea House, Rylstone — Partake in an afternoon tea at 29 nine 99 Yum Cha and Tea House. (Image: Destination NSW)

While in town, be sure to tick off the Rylstone Heritage Walk, take a stroll through the fairy-like Ferntree Gully Reserve and enjoy an award-winning tipple at De Beaurepaire Wines , where it’s all-in on French-style vin.

the entrance to the De Beaurepaire Wines Tasting Room in Rylstone — Enjoy an award-winning tipple at De Beaurepaire Wines. (Image: Destination NSW)

18. Stargaze at Mudgee Observatory

Under dark night skies, away from any light pollution, a visit to the Mudgee Observatory will put stars in your eyes. This private observatory built by John Vetter invites everyone to gaze upwards through the lens of a telescope and tap into a wonder for the universe in which we live. There are a range of telescopes as well as a theatre and planetarium, where you can watch several features about space and beyond on rotation. Tours change seasonally and bookings are essential.

19. Go cherry picking at Roth Family Orchard

If you’re visiting Mudgee in summer, you’ll have the pick of the season’s cherries any morning of the week with a visit to Roth Family Orchard . You’ll need to book ahead to frolic amid the cherry trees and pick your fill of the plump and juicy fruit that is in abundance from about November. The kids will relish the experience, so be prepared to leave with red-stained mouths, fingers and clothes. When the cherry season concludes, you can visit the farm at sunset to pluck your own sunflowers.

20. Picnic in Lawson Park

With an abundance of produce and providore-procured goodies to harvest on your excursions around town, a picnic seems just the thing for a sunny lunch – particularly in autumn when the leaves glow with hues of gold. Head to the beautifully historic Lawson Park to roll out your rug and relax under the canopy of vast trees over a leisurely few hours. There are free barbecue facilities, picnic tables, and a tranquil creek amid the gardens. If you have wee ones in tow, they’ll love the playground and adjacent pool and waterpark.

21. Admire motorbikes at Robert Stein

Get your motor running with a poke about the motorbike museum located at the Robert Stein cellar door . Winery founder, Robert Stein, began his motorbike collection with a 1928 Douglas, from there it has expanded over 40 years in parallel with his eponymous wine label. Even if you’re not a fan of bikes, we recommend a visit to this winery for a tasting and some well-considered nibbles that feature Stein Farm produce, but if you have a heavy metal heart, you can’t miss this collection.

the Robert Stein cellar door in Mudgee — See the expansive motorbike collection at Robert Stein’s cellar door. (Image: Destination NSW)

The ultimate road trip begins and ends on NSW’s stunning Grand Pacific Drive.

Whales, charming villages, fine wine and stunning natural vistas: there’s a lot to love about a road trip along the Grand Pacific Drive in New South Wales. Winding from the Royal National Park through Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven before heading inland to the Southern Highlands, this scenic drive makes for an unforgettable road trip.

But like all great road trips, it’s not just about the drive but the stops made along the way. From incredible farm-to-plate (and grape-to-glass) dining options to unbeatable natural vistas and quaint towns with beautiful accommodation, there’s plenty to explore en route.

Where to eat

What is a road trip without incredible food? Whether you’re after fresh seafood, slow-cooked paddock-to-plate feasts or delicious wines, you’ll find something around every bend along Grand Pacific Drive.

Restaurant Santino is a local Wollongong secret we can’t keep quiet any longer. With a fresh take on Italian cuisine, servings are hearty and flavours are comforting. The chitarra with blue swimmer crab, garlic, chilli, parsley and crustacean oil is a crowd favourite.

Keep it local in Shellharbour with a menu all about fresh local produce at Relish on Addison . From South Coast oysters and blue swimmer crab linguine to crispy pork belly, surf and turf takes on an elevated meaning here.

Kiama’s neighbourhood wine and cocktail bar, Little Betty’s , is just as good for a tasty share plate as it is for creative cocktails. The signature Grilled Octopus with burnt honey, garlic confit and sautéed Asian greens is worth a trip on its own.

Only the best will do in Shoalhaven, where multi-award-winning Bangalay Dining uses native Australian ingredients to bring its dishes to life. Start with the Smoked trout croquette before moving on to the sautéed potato gnocchi. Don’t forget the white chocolate mousse for dessert.

Meanwhile, the Southern Highlands are full of culinary highlights. From dining on incredibly fresh, local fare (we’re talking ingredients plucked from the team’s on-site kitchen garden or sourced through local producers) at Eschalot Restaurant in Berrima to creating gin blends at Millsheds Distillery .

bangalay dining shoalhaven — Taste native flavours at Bangalay Dining.

Exploring nature

Scenery is everything when hitting the road, and Grand Pacific Drive serves it up in spades. Drivers don’t even have to leave the car to enjoy the iconic ocean views from Seacliff Bridge (but several lookouts make it easy to stop).

Seaside Kiama boasts stunning beaches and famous blowholes. But travellers can also swap ocean for rainforest when taking the Minnamurra Rainforest walk, culminating in a picturesque waterfall. Or soar overhead at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures .

The scenic coastal drive along Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton. — Cruise along the stunning Grand Pacific Drive.

Between May and November, 30,000 whales make their way passed the South Coast between May and November. Spot them from the coastal shores or join a whale-watching cruise from Shellharbour Marina or Jervis Bay. Dive in with Woebegone Freedive .

Shellharbour’s Killalea Regional Park is home to a traditional bush tucker and medicine walk with Aboriginal tour group, Gumaraa . Learn Indigenous healing practices and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage and wisdom of the land’s Traditional Owners.

Wollongong is the perfect place for hikers, with the 6.5-kilometre Wodi Wodi track serving up views, settler history and a variety of landscapes in one loop. If you prefer, skip the walk and pull up at Bald Hill Lookout for expansive views south towards Wollongong (and a hang-glider or two).

For something truly unique, join the Highland Cow experience at The Swallow’s Nest in the Southern Highlands. In a brand-new offering, get a taste of farm life and help groom and feed these gorgeous creatures.

kiama coast walk people with dog — Wander the Kiama Coast Walk.

Unique experiences

No need to choose between an adrenaline rush or a culture fix, Grand Pacific Drive serves up both.

Soar into aviation history at Shellharbour’s HARS Aviation Museum . Tour the museum, then join a guided walk onto the wing of the record-breaking Qantas Boeing 747 and see the significant historic aircraft up close.

If ever there was a place to skydive, it’s in Wollongong. Dive from 15,000 feet (tandem, of course) with Sky Dive Wollongong and see the coastal beauty of this region from above.

Shoalhaven’s Bundanon Art Museum has to be one of the most unique offerings in the country. The legacy of artist Arthur Boyd and more than just a gallery, find eco-accommodation, fine dining, award-winning architecture and community here.

Kiama’s Crooked River Estate is about more than just delicious wine. Grab a picnic blanket and enjoy casual food and drinks with live music at Kick Back Fridays , every week.

Between June and August, the Southern Highlands’ Robertson attracts novice truffle hunters. Join the hunt at family-owned and operated Robertson Truffles (alternatively, you can order truffle treats online, if your sense of adventure isn’t up for it).

Freshly dug truffles at Terra Preta Truffles, Braidwood. — Discover hidden gems beneath the soil in the Southern Highlands. (Image: Destination NSW)

Where to stay

Road trips are the ultimate promotion for slow travel, encouraging visitors to take their time, enjoy the journey and stop along the way to really immerse themselves in local towns.

Find history and elegance at Berida Hotel in the Southern Highlands. Intimately set amongst gardens, but still close to the main street of Bowral, this 1920s private residence turned boutique hotel is the perfect stay.

Stay in one of Barranca’s private villas with views of rolling farmland overlooking the dramatic escarpment at Kangaroo Valley or be surrounded by native bushland (a short walk from the beach) in Jervis Bay.

Speaking of beachside escapes, Headlands Hotel Austinmer Beach delivers unrivalled access to Wollongong’s beaches. These serviced apartments enjoy coastal views from spacious balconies.

For something completely different again, check in at Cicada Luxury Camping . Stay in safari-style or large bell tents, each with a private fire pit and top-notch kitchen facilities. Outside, enjoy spectacular countryside views.

Discover more and plan your ultimate road trip along the Grand Pacific Drive and beyond at grandpacificdrive.com.au/grand.

21 of the very best things to do in Mudgee