The Australian Bucket List

New South Wales

Country NSWHome to some of Australia's oldest and prettiest towns, Country NSW is celebrated for its rich farmland, magnificent national parks, luxury retreats and much-loved country music scene.

Welcome to the sprawling landscapes and hidden gems of Country NSW, where captivating beauty and authentic Australian experiences await. Step away from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the heartland of New South Wales, where charming towns, stunning natural wonders, and rich cultural heritage converge. Begin your journey in the charming town of Orange, renowned for its cool-climate vineyards and gourmet delights. Indulge in farm-to-table dining experiences, savoring exquisite wines and fresh local produce. Explore the surrounding countryside, where rolling hills and picturesque orchards offer a scenic backdrop for leisurely drives and outdoor adventures. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the historic towns of Bathurst and Mudgee, each offering their own unique blend of colonial history, charming architecture, and vibrant arts scenes. Continue your exploration to the Blue Mountains, a World Heritage-listed region that captivates with its breathtaking vistas and dramatic landscapes. Marvel at the iconic Three Sisters rock formation, and breathe in the crisp mountain air as you wander through the lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls. Hike along the scenic trails, or opt for a thrilling ride on the world's steepest railway. The Blue Mountains offer endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking tranquility amidst awe-inspiring beauty. Venture further west to the town of Dubbo, home to the renowned Taronga Western Plains Zoo. Embark on a wildlife adventure like no other, encountering iconic Australian animals up close and personal. From kangaroos and koalas to lions and giraffes, this immersive zoo experience is sure to leave you with lifelong memories. Take the opportunity to learn about conservation efforts and participate in behind-the-scenes experiences for a deeper understanding of our unique wildlife. For a taste of outback adventure, head to Broken Hill, an iconic mining town that exudes rugged charm. Discover the vibrant art scene that has inspired countless artists, or delve into the rich mining history at the Pro Hart Gallery and the Silverton Gaol Museum. Unwind in the vast expanses of the Living Desert and Sculptures, where ancient rock formations blend with modern art installations, creating a captivating fusion of nature and creativity. No journey through Country NSW would be complete without a visit to the charming river town of Wagga Wagga. Nestled on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, this vibrant city offers a mix of cultural experiences and outdoor pursuits. Explore the picturesque Botanic Gardens, visit the National Art Glass Gallery, or simply relax by the riverbanks and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. Don't forget to sample some of the region's famed Riverina wines and indulge in delicious local cuisine. As you traverse the countryside, keep an eye out for the quaint villages and roadside attractions that make Country NSW so special. From the historic gold rush town of Hill End to the quirky Dog on the Tuckerbox monument near Gundagai, these hidden gems add an extra layer of charm and intrigue to your journey. Country NSW welcomes you with open arms, inviting you to connect with the land, its people, and its stories. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or a peaceful escape into nature, this region promises unforgettable experiences and a genuine connection to the Australian spirit. Prepare to be captivated by the vast landscapes, warm hospitality, and the enduring beauty that lies within the heart of Country NSW.

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Things to do

Get out in nature at Oxley Wild Rivers National Park

Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, near Armidale contains world heritage listed rainforest, historic sites and waterfalls. It’s perfect for walking, camping and fishing. Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area features rare dry rainforest, dramatic gorges and waterfalls, extensive wilderness areas, wild and scenic rivers and an amazing array of wildlife. It's best explored as a scenic drive along the Waterfall Way. Explore the Apsley Macleay Gorges, one of Australia’s largest gorge systems with incredible ridge top views and visit Wollomombi, the highest waterfall in NSW and a place sure to lift your spirit. Bushwalkers will love the multi-day Green Gully walk that takes in the park’s spectacular landscape and includes overnight accommodation in heritage-listed stockman’s huts. For those seeking heritage accommodation that is slightly more luxurious, East Kunderang Homestead is sure to impress. Everything in the park is best seen up close – immerse your senses and yourself in this wild place while you camp, walk, paddle, picnic, cycle, horse ride, fish or swim.

Wollomombi Falls

The Wollomombi Falls are one of the highest falls in Australia. The spectacular single fall from the undulating plateau country around Wollomombi to the floor of the Wollomombi Gorge often gives visitors a truly superb view. The views, though sometimes shrouded in mist, are most spectacular after heavy rain in the area. Wollomombi Falls are located less than one kilometre south of the village of Wollomombi and approximately two and a half kilometres by road. The access turn off is one and a half kilometres from Wollomombi on the Waterfall Way towards Armidale. Wollomombi Falls are located in the Oxley Wild Rivers National Park.

Have a beer at the Mudgee Brewing Company

The Mudgee Brewing Company is a family-owned business that was established in 2007. Located in a 100-year-old building in the town centre of Mudgee, the Brewery has a relaxed atmosphere with the operating brewery as the centrepiece within the restaurant/bar. The Brewery has eight taps that rotate with the latest beers brewed on-site at Mudgee's only craft brewery. With local beer, local wines, amazing food and live music it is a must-visit while in the Mudgee Region.

Sandstone Caves Walking Track

Walk in the footsteps of the Gamilaroi people along the short Sandstone Caves walking track in Pilliga Nature Reserve. You’ll pass through the scenic forest to the impressive sandstone hills, with some containing ancient Aboriginal rock engravings. Take some time to read over the interpretive signage for more of an insight into this special place. You can take a self-guided walk, however, this unique place is best experienced on a guided tour with an Aboriginal Discovery Ranger. You can book your tour at Pilliga Forest Discovery Centre in Baradine.

Star gaze at Darbys Falls Observatory

At Darbys Falls Observatory visitors can explore the universe with one of the largest telescopes available to the public, a 500 millimetre Newtonian! Also available are the 400 millimetres, 300 millimetres and 200 millimetres F10 Schmidt-Cassegrain instruments, a six-inch refractor and a flat-screen planetarium. The astronomers will show you around the night sky, pointing out the splendours of the heavens, including the Moon, planets, galaxies, star clusters, Saturn and its spectacular rings, Jupiter and its four moons and nebulae. Open every night, conditions permitting. Please phone before visiting.

Attend the Orange Wine Festival

The Orange Wine Festival is the regions opportunity to celebrate its thriving wine and food culture and quality cool-climate wines, unique to the region. Running over October, the program features many innovative, educational and fun events that will champion their wines, produce and wine industry personalities. This year, some of their much-loved signature events won’t be able to proceed due to the impacts of COVID 19, but they are very excited to include a series of Orange Wine Show Masterclasses and a new Event - Altitude. They will keep the website up to date if restrictions ease sufficiently to allow them to introduce other events during the month. They advise all people hoping to come to events and visit out regions cellar door to please book ahead to avoid disappointment. They look forward to seeing you in Orange.

Learn to cook in Mudgee

The Little Cooking School is an informal, relaxed creative space offering casual cooking classes, suited to all skill levels, featuring a three-course menu showcasing the best regional produce they can find, concluding with enjoying the day's efforts over lunch with selected local wines to match. Their aim is focused on sharing ideas, techniques, recipes and ultimately sharing the fruits of their labour. With over 20 years in the Hospitality and commercial cookery industry they don’t profess to know it all, however, they do love finding new recipes, using locally sourced seasonal produce, and they love a good dinner party and to have a laugh. After experiencing a class with them you will leave with a full belly, some new recipes, tips and tricks and maybe a few good stories to tell. This is an inclusive experience so come by yourself, bring a group or enquire about a private class. So roll up your sleeves and dive into Mudgee's newest long lunch experience.

Australia’s astronomy capital of Coonabarabran

Coonabarabran is in Central NSW and is located within two hours drive of the regional cities of Dubbo and Tamworth. It is located at the junction of the Newell and Oxley Highways, midway between Melbourne and Brisbane. Known as the 'Astronomy Capital of Australia', Coonabarabran is the gateway to Warrumbungle National Park. Coonabarabran has one of the darkest skies in Australia and is the home of Australia's largest optical astronomy research facility, Siding Spring Observatory. The area around Coonabarabran is ideal for stargazing with high altitude, low humidity, a non-turbulent atmosphere for viewing clarity, clean air and an average of 70 per cent clear night skies. A dumpsite is available for free usage 24 hours in Coonabarabran, on Essex Street adjacent to Neilson Park. Coonabarabran is located in the Warrumbungle Shire region.

Explore the rugged beauty of Pilliga National Park

Pilliga Forest is an iconic Australian landscape offering rugged beauty on a grand scale. Explore the trail network by car or on foot, take a guided tour and camp out. One of the iconic landscapes of inland Australia, Pilliga Forest (or sometimes called the Pilliga Scrub) is made up of Pilliga Nature Reserve, Timmallallie National Park, Pilliga West, and East State Conservation Areas. Close to the town of Baradine, Pilliga is a vast forest that spans more than half a million hectares and features 2,000 kilometres of public access trails, so there’s a lot to explore either by walking or car touring. You can set up camp at the free Sculptures in the Scrub campground in Timmallallie National Park. Be sure to take a guided Discovery tour of Sandstone Caves to find out about this important Aboriginal site and the Gamilaroi people’s connections to this ancient landscape. As you walk or drive, keep your eyes out for some of the park’s resident birds and wildlife, including rare barking owls and malleefowls. A particularly keen eye will spot the families of koalas who dine and recline on the many eucalypt trees which are found throughout this area.

Walk through the renowned Warrumbungle National Park

Warrumbungle National Park near Coonabarabran in NSW is a great place for camping, walking, birdwatching and, as Australia's only Dark Sky Park, it's perfect for stargazing. Whether you’re into camping, walking, birdwatching, or even astronomy, Warrumbungle National Park, near Coonabarabran in NSW, is a great place for a weekend getaway or longer holiday. Wildfires in 2013 marked yet another chapter in this great park’s history. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has worked hard to rebuild its facilities for generations to come. Walking tracks, campgrounds and other visitor sites have been rebuilt with modern facilities. Drop into the Warrumbungle Visitor Centre for park information or buy a star chart to enjoy the starry nights. The Breadknife, easily the most recognisable feature within the park, towers 90 metres above the valley floor and is a symbol of the park’s enduring importance and resilience. The Breadknife and Grand High Tops walk is recognised as one of the best walks in NSW, with close up views of the park's iconic rock formations.

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