MUDGEE

Mudgee is one of my favourite towns in NSW. Located in the central west of New South Wales, Mudgee is known for its wineries, picturesque landscapes, and friendly locals. It’s a region that is becoming more and more popular with younger travellers, looking to enjoy the stunning accommodation, restaurants, cafes and wineries.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway or a family get together, Mudgee is definitely worth a visit. There are some excellent accommodation options as well, from glamping to boutique hotels and stylish cottages – and even a chance to experience a stay in a dome.

Starting your tour in the Mudgee CBD, one of the first things you will notice are the lovely old buildings in the town centre. Walking through the streets of Mudgee feels like stepping back in time, with gracious architecture lining the streets and quaint little shops and cafes dotted throughout.

Don’t miss Blowes Clothing for Australia clothing such as R.M Williams and fab Akaubra hats.

BEST WINERIES IN MUDGEE

One of the highlights of any trip to Mudgee has to be visiting some of the local wineries. The region is known for its excellent wines, with its rich soils, favorable climate, and ideal grape-growing conditions and there are plenty of excellent wineries to choose from. I visited several during my stay, and each one had its own unique charm.

Many wineries in Mudgee have started adopting sustainable practices. These practices aim to minimize the use of harmful chemicals, reduce waste, and promote biodiversity.

The owners of Lazy Oak Vineyard believe that they have a responsibility to protect the environment and promote sustainability. To achieve this, the winery has implemented several sustainable practices, such as using organic fertilizers and compost, planting cover crops to prevent soil erosion, and using solar power to reduce their energy usage. Lazy Oak Vineyard also supports local wildlife by planting native trees and providing habitat for birds and other animals.

Lowe Wines is a certified organic and biodynamic winery located in Mudgee. The winery has won numerous awards for its sustainable practices with the belief that sustainable farming practices are the key to producing high-quality wines while protecting the environment. To achieve this, the winery uses organic and biodynamic farming techniques, which promote soil health and biodiversity. Lowe Wines also implements water and energy-saving practices, such as rainwater harvesting, composting and solar power and uses recycled materials in its packaging.

Robert Stein Winery and Vineyard is another sustainable winery in Mudgee.  In recent years, Robert Stein Winery and Vineyard has made a commitment to sustainability, implementing several initiatives to minimize its environmental impact. One of the key initiatives implemented by the winery is the use of organic and biodynamic farming practices. The winery also uses renewable energy sources, such as solar power and biomass boilers, to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. To minimize waste, the Winery recycles its water and uses composting to reduce the amount of organic waste that goes to landfill.

BEST RESTAURANTS IN MUDGEE

Another thing that I loved about Mudgee was the food. The town has a thriving food scene, with plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. I had some of the best meals in a long time during my stay in Mudgee.

One of my favourite restaurants was the wonderful Pipeclay Restaurant at Robert Stein Winery. Their produce is homegrown or locally sourced and prepared with a delicate touch in a relaxed atmosphere.

The Zin House is a regional restaurant and food garden on the organic and biodynamic Lowe Family Wine Co property in Mudgee, NSW. The restaurant uses mostly organic produce from their extensive kitchen gardens, orchards and farmland, the food is prepared from scratch using classic techniques. What they don’t grow themselves, they source from local producers to provide an experience of true regionality.

For something a bit different, try the Indigiearth Cafe. Indigiearth is 100% Aboriginal owned and operated and champions the development and employment of Indigenous people. Over four magical hours, enjoy native food and beverages, prepared in a unique fusion of modern techniques with traditional methods. The authentic cultural entertainment, musical and cultural storytelling, and the in-depth knowledge of Aboriginal culture and food, is pioneered by owner, Ngemba Weilwan woman, Sharon Winsor.

Limited to 16 guests per night, this intimate dining experience is currently available on set dates, online dinner bookings available.

If you are a fan of local country markets (and who isn’t?), then you will love the Mudgee Farmers’ Markets in Robertson Park, 97a Market Street, Mudgee, from 8:30am to 12:30pm. Held the third Saturday of every month, the market showcases local produce, including organic fruits and vegetables, free-range meats, and handmade products. Shopping at the farmers’ market supports the local community and reduces the carbon footprint of the food that tourists consume during their stay.

On my last morning, I was lucky enough to nab a table at Alby and Esther’s, an atmospheric cafe hidden away in a laneway for a fabulous breakfast. Its a busy place, but dont miss it! 

BEST ACCOMMODATION IN MUDGEE

Eco-tourism is on the rise, and Mudgee is no exception. Like many Australian rural towns, it is a place which may be negatively impacted by climate change, so thankfully many people are committed to sustainable living and eco-tourism.

Mudgee has a wide variety of eco-accommodation options. From eco-cabins to glamping tents, there is something for everyone who wants to stay in a sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodation. These properties are often powered by solar panels, and some even have composting toilets and rainwater tanks.

BEST GLAMPING IN MUDGEE

If you’re looking for a unique accommodation experience, glamping in Mudgee might be just what you’re after. Glamping, or glamorous camping, allows you to enjoy all the benefits of camping without sacrificing comfort or luxury. In my experience, glamping is best enjoyed when the weather is favourable, especially if the tents are in an exposed position, so keep that in mind when you make a booking!

SIERRA ESCAPE

One of the best glamping options in Mudgee is Sierra Escape. This eco-friendly retreat offers luxury glamping tents with stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Each tent is fully equipped with a king-size bed, private bathroom, and outdoor bathtub. The tents also feature an outdoor fire pit, perfect for a glass of Mudgee wine and enjoying the starry night sky with someone special. It doesn’t get much better than this…

EVAMOR VALLEY GLAMPING

Evamor Valley Glamping offers a one-of-a-kind experience that combines the comforts of home with the beauty and serenity of the great outdoors. The glamping site features luxurious tents that are fully equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Each tent is furnished with a comfortable queen-sized bed, cozy blankets, and soft pillows to ensure a good night’s sleep. The tents also come with a private bathroom, complete with a hot shower and flushing toilet.

But what sets Evamor Valley Glamping apart is its stunning location. The site is nestled in a secluded valley surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests, offering breathtaking views of the natural landscape. Guests can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the outdoors while still enjoying the comforts of a well-appointed tent. In addition to the comfortable tents, Evamor Valley Glamping offers a range of activities to keep guests entertained. Guests can go hiking or mountain biking on the nearby trails, explore the local waterfalls and swimming holes, or simply relax by the campfire and enjoy the starry night sky.

Evamor Valley Glamping is genuine in its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The site is powered by solar panels and uses rainwater for all its needs, minimizing its impact on the environment.

BEST BOUTIQUE COTTAGES IN MUDGEE

STRIKES MUDGEE

Strikes Mudgee is just a quick 5 minute drive from Mudgee, but feels like a whole different world. The view from the villas is breathtaking – you can see the Eurunderee valley and all the neighboring vineyards.

Strikes Mudgee has two luxurious guest houses that were architect designed and are eco-friendly. Plus, they’re right in the middle of the popular food and wine trail in the Mudgee Region. The villas are on 80 hectares of private land and were just completed in 2017. You can relax on the deck with a glass of Mudgee wine and a cheese platter while taking in the stunning views.

BEST UNIQUE ACCOMMODATION IN MUDGEE

HIDEAWAY DOMES

Set amongst a beautiful backdrop of natural Australian bushland, Hideaway Domes is located on ‘Belbourie’, a beautifully undulating 1000-acre property, only 15 minutes’ drive from Mudgee. Spacious, structurally robust, aerodynamic, and breathtaking in its appearance, the dome allows guests to immerse themselves in the beautiful bush surrounds, without the discomfort and hassle of camping.

PERMANENT CAMPING

With views across the pristine wilderness of central western NSW, Permanent Camping is the perfect size for two people. It was conceived with a minimal footprint, with side walls which open up to bring the landscape in. This truly is a unique camping experience, and will be an unforgettable back-to-nature experience.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN MUDGEE

If you’re looking for outdoor activities, Mudgee has plenty to offer. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. We went for a hike in the nearby Wollemi National Park, which was absolutely stunning. The park is home to some of the oldest and most diverse plant species in the world.

One of the most popular eco-friendly activities in Mudgee is cycling. The town has a network of bike paths that take riders through the picturesque countryside, past vineyards, and through the town’s historic streets. Not only is cycling a great way to explore the area, but it also reduces the carbon footprint of any tourist who chooses this mode of transport.

For those who want to enjoy the great outdoors, there are several eco-tours available in Mudgee. One such tour is the Wollemi Wilderness Adventure, which takes tourists on a journey through the stunning Wollemi National Park. The tour is led by an experienced guide who teaches visitors about the local flora and fauna and the importance of conservation efforts in the area.

Whatever you decide to do in Mudgee, I am sure that you will have a worthwhile getaway. Just remember to give yourself plenty of time to head home if you need to travel over the Blue Mountains. The traffic can be pretty rough on a Sunday afternoon!

Blog post by Travelling Girl, who travels independently and takes no remuneration for recommendations or reviews. Aug 3, 2023.

Images are courtesy of Destination NSW and Travelling Girl.