Your Guide To The Quaint, Historic Village Of Sofala

Experience the magic of the gold rush era as you uncover the hidden gems of Sofala – from camping under the stars to enjoying a cold beer at the local pub.

Located just a short drive from Bathurst, Sofala is a quaint, historic village that captures the essence of quintessential Australia. With its gold rush-era heritage buildings, picturesque streets, and classic Aussie pub, Sofala is a must-visit destination for those seeking to step back in time.

There’s plenty of camping and bushwalking for outdoor enthusiasts, plus a few charming farm stays for a more indulgent visit. Take a day trip or pack your bags to relish in this relic of history.

A day in Sofala

A forty-minute drive from Bathurst, you’ll find the tiny town of Sofala, a nostalgically historic and typically Australian village with a population of just 200. On a walk through town, you’ll discover picturesque streets, buildings from the gold rush era, a classic wooden pub, and the old Sofala gaol.

an aerial view of Sofala — Take in picturesque sights in the gold-rush town of Sofala. (Image: Destination NSW)

Continue exploring the Upper Turon, another 20 minutes away, and you’ll find remnants of the gold rush, including diggings, gravestones, buildings and a Chinese miner settlement.

a man gold panning in the Turon River — Pan for gold in the Turon River. (Image: Destination NSW)

Nature lovers can head south towards Wattle Flat and enjoy a five-kilometre walk through the Aussie bush on the Buurree Walking Trail. This circular trail is marked by yellow triangles and takes about two hours at a leisurely pace. Take in picturesque views of Sofala and the Turon Valley from the ridgeline and admire the many native bird species.

an aerial view of the Turon River and the town of Sofala — Swoon over the scenic views of the Turon River and the town of Sofala. (Image: Destination NSW)

Sofala art and artists

Wandering around Sofala, you might feel as though you’ve stepped into an old Australian painting that perfectly sums up the picturesque yet harsh landscape of the region. Sofala has long been a source of inspiration for artists, with many of them capturing the essence of the town and surrounding natural landscapes through their work.

As you explore the village you might even find that you recognise the streetscapes from the famous Russell Drysdale painting, Sofala. Described by the Art Gallery of NSW as ‘an expression of the quintessential qualities of an inland Australian country town’ the painting won the Wynne Prize in 1947. Works like this help cement Sofala’s place in Australian art history and showcase the beauty and charm of the region.

the History Hill Museum & Underground Mine in Sofala — Visit History Hill Museum & Underground Mine to discover Sofala’s awe-inspiring history. (Image: Ribbon Gang Media Agency)

The Pub – Royal Hotel Sofala

The Royal Hotel Sofala is a classic but unique old, rustic, Aussie pub that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. You probably won’t run into many tourists on your visit, but you’ll likely have a chin wag with the locals. There’s a bistro serving basic meals, and you can sit in the cosy indoor area, outside under the trees with the kangaroos or in the beer garden. It’s a humble reminder of the good old days that’s well worth a visit.

the property exterior of the old, rustic, Aussie pub at Royal Hotel Sofala — Have a pint or two at the vintage Royal Hotel Sofala.

Sofala camping

For those seeking an adventurous and immersive experience, Sofala offers plenty of options for caravanning and camping enthusiasts.

There are five free campgrounds to choose from, all dotted around Sofala close to the river, with plenty of sites on offer, and four that are caravan-friendly.

Coles Bridge Campground is right by the water, with some sites accessible by caravan but no toilets. Sofala campsite (Crossley Bridge Reserve) is close to the river, town, and public toilets. Ration Point is peaceful with undercover picnic areas and tank water available. First Crossing Camping Area (Greenpoint) is a spacious site with toilets (the only one). All are pet-friendly and allow firepits.

a river surrounded by trees at Camp Crudine — Set up your tent next to the river at Camp Crudine.

For paid camping with all the bells and whistles, you can choose from Wattle Flat Heritage Lands for $5 a night with plenty of flat camping spaces, toilets, BBQs, and picnic areas.

Camp Crudine is a 32-hectare private property eight kilometres from Sofala that can be booked through Hipcamp for $24 per person. It’s 4WD access only and sits along the river boundary offering a beautiful and secluded nature immersion with toilets and a camp kitchen available.

a camping chair facing the river at Camp Crudine — Head to Camp Crudine for a nature escape.

Sofala accommodation

For a less rustic experience, there are a few homesteads and Airbnbs to choose from. Chesleigh Homestead is a bed-and-breakfast style farm with lovely, cosy rooms on a beautiful 1214-hectare property with horses, caves, mountain lookouts, bushwalks, a pool, and everything you need for a comfortable, relaxing stay. Ryder Homestead is a little more rustic and rural with several quirky cabins to choose from.

a beautiful cottage at the Glendaire Farmstay — Have a relaxing stay at Glendaire Farmstay for much-needed R&R.

On Airbnb, you can book a big, beautiful, three-bedroom cottage at Glendaire Farmstay that has everything you need for an indulgent stay on a beautiful, 809-hectare property with farm animals, swimming, and all the necessary mod cons.

The 20 Mile Cottage is a slightly more humble option offering a lovely country outlook and two bedrooms in what was originally an old miner’s cottage.

the property exterior of 20 Mile Cottage — settle into 20 Mile Cottage during your stay in Sofala.

Read our Bathurst travel guide for more insider tips and travel secrets.

Make this dazzling stretch of beaches and natural wonders your home base for a grand adventure

Whether you’re setting out solo, bringing a mate, or packing in the whole family, no road trip along Australia’s East Coast is complete without at least a few days spent exploring the Coffs Coast. A stunning stretch of NSW coastline nestled between ancient high-elevation rainforests and magnificent, undiscovered beaches, Coffs offers amazing biodiversity, stunning natural beauty, and heaps of local charm, without the crowds. Pull up in Coffs Harbour , your perfect home base for these unforgettable day-trips.

1. Southern Beaches

The Coffs region boasts 30 of Australia’s most beautiful, unspoiled beaches, directly abutting a dramatic tableau of mountains and rainforests. Drive South of Coffs Harbour to find up-and-coming surf destinations where it’s still possible to catch an empty wave. First up is the picturesque Sawtell village . Wander the famous fig-tree-lined main street packed with laid-back places to eat and drink. Enjoy panoramic views and seasonal whale sightings at Bonville Headland on the Southern end of the beach.

Nearby Bongil Bongil National Park boasts seven kilometres of empty beach, along with hiking and cycling trails through beachfront rainforests – keep an eye out for koalas living in the trees. Boambee Beach and Boambee Creek Reserve are great for families, with shallow waters perfect for kayaking and SUPing, plus an off-leash dog beach.

family eating lunch in sawtell — Experience small-town charm in Sawtell.

2. Orara Valley Tourist Trail

The Orara Valley Tourist Trail has it all: hinterland bushwalks, birdwatching, horse riding, pristine swimming holes and rolling green pastures dotted with dairy farms and historic villages. And it’s only 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour.

Sample produce at a roadside stall, stop into Coramba Hotel for a quintessential country pub lunch, or try the Idle in Cafe in Nana Glen for coffee and scones. Then spend the afternoon kayaking the Orara River or mountain biking on Mt Coramba. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the 4WD touring route along the Orara Escarpment in Bindarri National Park , a rugged landscape with dazzling views that winds through untouched eucalypt rainforests and waterfalls.

A family sitting by the Orara Valley Tourist Trail. — Explore the green heart of Coffs.

3. Dorrigo National Park

Enjoy a classic day trip from Coffs to forest bathe in some of the oldest subtropical rainforests in the world at Dorrigo National Park, part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. These million-year-old ecosystems promise rare bird sightings, towering strangler figs, and epic walking tracks and picnic spots. Try the 6.6 km Wonga Walk to experience dreamy Crystal Shower Falls (where you can walk behind the falls) and the Skywalk Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the valley and coast. Then stop in Dorrigo town for a homey lunch. It’s worth noting that a section of the road between Ulong and Dorrigo – which dates to the 1880s – is unsealed, adding to the area’s end-of-the-earth allure but making travel difficult in adverse weather conditions. Alternatively, head to Dorrigo via the delightful township of Bellingen .

Three people standing at the SkyWalk lookout. — Wander the Skywalk.

4. Northern Beaches

For another tranquil expanse of sun, sand and surf breaks, head north to Woolgoolga (Tourism Australia’s Best Mainland Beach for 2025. Taste the coffee and local-produce breakfast at one of several cafes, then spot whales during their migration season along the Woolgoolga Whale Trail to the headland. Emerald Beach offers clear blue waters and another headland walk, perfect for taking in views of South Solitary Island, a dramatically rocky-cliffed island with a historic lighthouse. Red Rock, some 40km north of Coffs and named for its striking coastal rock formations, boasts a gorgeous estuary reserve that’s perfect for languorous days spent picnicking, swimming, fishing, and connecting with the relaxed local pace.

Freshly caught seafood by the beach, with sparkling ocean views. — Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking Woolgoolga Beach.

5. Jetty precinct

You could easily spend a whole day exploring the Jetty precinct – from its foreshores to the marina to Muttonbird Island. Start with fresh fish and chips from local institution Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Co-op , before browsing the popular Harbourside Markets held every Sunday on the foreshores.

Take a scenic walk along the breakwall to Muttonbird Island , a cultural and ecological treasure with panoramic views and rich Gumbaynggirr heritage. The Giidany Miirlarl Education Space shares the island’s ancient stories, or join a guided moonlight tour to see the seasonal return of the muttonbirds.

Back at the Jetty Strip, find a buzzing mix of cafes, bars and restaurants with cuisines from around the world, open from morning until late. Don’t miss The Jetty Pavilion , a favourite for its unique menu blending modern Australian cuisine with vibrant world flavours.

walk to muttonbird island from coffs harbour — Walk the path where land meets sea and sky.

6. Grafton

Head inland from mid-October to early November to catch Grafton’s jacaranda season, when the town’s streets and parks are covered in purple. Even better, time your trip between 24 October and 2 November to attend the famous Jacaranda Festival, with special food items, performances and more. At any time of year, follow the self-guided Grafton Heritage Trail to discover the town’s historic buildings, landmarks and stories. Or get the blood pumping with a trip along the longest mapped white-water trail in Australia – the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail. Book a tour with Exodus Adventures .

woman walking through jacaranda trees in grafton — Time your Grafton trip to see the jacarandas in full bloom. (Image: @myclarencevalley)

7. Nambucca

Just south of Coffs Harbour sits Nambucca, the ideal town for a relaxed, coastal day trip. Hire a canoe, kayak or boat to explore over 80 kilometres of waterways stretching from the hinterland to the ocean. For those who prefer to stay on dry land (or double up their adventure for the day), stretch your legs along the V-Wall – a scenic coastal walk along the Nambucca River – dotted with boulders painted by the community, sharing messages, art and local stories. Stop along the way to buy Sydney rock oysters direct from local farmers, or try your own hand at fishing. Before heading back to Coffs, refuel on fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas at Matilda’s in Nambucca .

a boat zooming through Nambucca Heads — Explore Nambucca’s waterways. (Image: Seen Australia)

Visit coffscoast.com and download the Coffs Coast Explorer App for more daytrips and trails.

The hidden gems of Sofala – from accommodation to artists