How to Make the Most of a Visit to Central NSW

There's a wealth of things to do as you explore NSW's Central West and Central Tablelands, from the cellar doors and shops of Orange to historic pubs in Rylstone and great accommodation in Mudgee. Here's where to start.

Step back in time

Pull up stumps with an icy beer in the unassuming front bar of The Globe Hotel, an iconic landmark that’s stood since 1855 in the heart of Rylstone. Bounty from the chef’s garden makes for a heartwarming soup enjoyed by the fire (and there’s a good list of local wines). Sweet tooths can relive their childhood with hard-boiled lollies, peanut brittle and rocky road from The Lollipop Shop (50 Louee Street). For more time travel, drive 60 minutes north to Gulgong, the home town of Henry Lawson, where narrow streets and memorabilia from yesteryear can be found.

Stay in boutique luxury

Unwind in the luxury boutique apartments at Perry Street Hotel in the heart of Mudgee. The historic two-storey property, built in 1862, blends modern comforts with old-world charm and the sprawling balcony offers sun and the perfect place to enjoy the papers in the morning. Wander just out of town to Bunnamagoo Estate Wines (pictured above), the Paspaley Group’s five-hectare estate, for a garden picnic paired with a 2017 tempranillo and to shop the collection of exquisite pearls.

Find the best shopping spots nearby

Be inspired by vibrant artwork, funky ceramics and glorious interiors at The Sonic in nearby Orange, curated by regional trailblazer Pip Brett. The old masonic hall has been transformed into an eclectic hub featuring homewares store Jumbled, boutique clothing shop Iglou and in-house café Nimrods. Venture to the foothills of Mount Canobolas for spectacular views and an intimate wine tasting at Rikard Wines – the 2018 Black Label Chardonnay won’t disappoint.

The best lunch

Fancy Italian? At the cucina di lusso (luxury kitchen) at Di Lusso Estate, seven kilometres from Mudgee, enjoy home-grown olives, wine and figs. Lunchtime favourites at the lakeside restaurant include classic baked figs, Nonno’s antipasto, pizza and, of course, dolci: fig and almond tart or Sicilian orange cake.

The best bakery

An institution for buttery pastries, Racine Bakery (pictured above) in Orange is the go-to artisan for pies (savoury and sweet), sausage rolls, croissants and fresh organic sourdough.

The best coffee

Good Eddy café on Lords Place in Orange offers a contemplative hideaway for topnotch coffee served with friendly banter. Sneak out the back to explore bohemian fashion at Belle Armoire Boutique.

SEE ALSO: Go Beyond the Beaches on the Sunshine Coast