Historically the home of the Mudgee and Dabee clans of the Wiradjuri people, Mudgree boomed as a gold rush town from the 1850s. Now a charming collection of well-preserved heritage residences and gourmet restaurants surrounded by world-class vineyards, it’s a hugely popular destination for a weekend break from Sydney. Perfect for romantics as well as outdoorsy families, most of the best places to stay in Mudgee are intimate and characterful, within easy reach of stacks of activities.
Stroll around town to admire red brick buildings on tree-lined streets. Many of these 19th-century properties are still private homes, whilst others have been transformed into boutique hotels, shops or restaurants. Tour the Mudgee Museum for a sense of the region’s past, before marvelling at the town hall, the post office and the railway station. There are some very pretty churches dotted around town, too.
Mudgee’s vineyards offer top-notch tours and tastings, and there are opportunities aplenty to cycle and horse ride between them or in the dazzling Avisford Nature Reserve. Come evening, catch a show at the Regent Theatre, pop to a nearby cellar door for a terrific tasting, or book a table at a lively gourmet restaurant. Retreat to your pick of the best places to stay in Mudgee for a tipple or two on the terrace under the stars.