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GOLD & WINE
Alluring orchard vineyards, towering sandstone cliffs, priceless colonial heritage, massive majestic canyons and a vast picturesque lake.To these add sweeping vistas, rolling plains, lush rainforests, fertile valleys, historic gold workings and one of the worlds most famous race tracks.
It seems a little unfair that so much treasure and pleasure is concentrated in one area - but thats exactly the way it is just a little west of the Blue Mountains in the Wonderlands Gold & Wine region.
The charm of Bathurst is unique. With its enviably wide streets, endearing wrought iron lamposts and every modern shopping and entertainment facility, its a wonderful city with a delightful eclectic mix.
From university students to farming communities and - of course - motorbike and racing car fanatics, Bathurst is Australias oldest inland city but with a wonderfully modern touch and vibrant energy.
Gold fever is still alive and well in the nearby hills of Sofala and Hill End - two amazing heritage towns that must be the most painted and photographed in the country. Alluvial gold is still to be found in the waters of the Turon River and a night or two in the creaky historic pubs is guaranteed fun.
A relaxing drive brings visitors to a memorable Nest in the Hills, the Aboiriginal word for what is of course Mudgee which can be found on hundreds of thousands of wine bottles (empty and full) throughout the nation.
Luscious vines are everywhere - as are great little cafes and accommodating wide streets. Be certain to seek out local gourmet produce that will drive your tastebuds wild.
Mudgee has a world-wide reputation for its high quality wines - a reputation that, like the vino, just keeps getting better and maturing.
And if you love poetry, make a pilgrimage to the memorial to the districts most famous son, Mr Henry Lawson.
Major Attractions
Mt Panorama; the gold towns of Sofala, Hill End and Gulgong, Mudgee Vineyards.
Major Festivals & Events
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Bathurst Autumn Colours Festival - April
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Bathurst 24 Hour Race, Mt Panorama - Nov
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A Day on the Green - Concert at Poet's Corner, Mudgee - Nov
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Mudgee Agricultural Show - March
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Music of Mudgee Festival - May
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Henry Lawson Heritage Festival, Mudgee - June
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Mudgee Small Farms Field Day - July
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Mudgee Wine Celebration - throughout Sept
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Rylestone Street Feast - Nov
Click on ACCOMMODATION, DINING or THINGS TO SEE & DO for a list of options in this region
For more information and maps on the Gold & Wine region please click on the town names below to visit our online Wonderland Touring Guide.
Bathurst - Mudgee - Hill End - Sofala - Gulgong
Photos: Mudgee Vines, Gold Panning at Hill End & Sofala and Mt Panorama Race Circuit. |
