Wine tasting
There are dozens of wineries and cellar doors in Mudgee so it can be hard to know where to start. We, of course, recommend the historic and family-runBurrundulla Wines, less than five kilometres out of town on the Sydney side - and with one of Mudgee’s best cafes next door! Pop in, taste some wines, learn about the history of Mudgee - and then get some recommendations for more wine tasting depending on your wants!
Star gazing
Seriously on the downlow,Mudgee Observatoryis a 15-minute drive to a very dark location away from the town and Ulan mine lights. Bookings essential direct to the passionate owner John Vetter (phone 63733431, cost $10/$15pp); expect theatre features about the night sky and space missions, as well as a range of telescopes and binoculars to use during the entertaining and informative tours. There are also daytime sessions for viewing the Sun.
Walking tracks
Locals rave about the many wonderful un-peopled walks on their doorstep, including Ganguddy-Dunns Swamp, Three Poles, Mount Misery and the dog-friendly billabong walk in the Putta Bucca wetlands. Find maps at thetourist information centreon the main drag.
Mountain bike trails
Professionally designed,Mudgee Commonis an excellent cycling venue, with 24 mountain bike trails ranging from Quarter Pounder to Ant Hill. Of course, many wineries in Mudgee are located so close together, it’s fun and easy to don the stack hats and explore them on two wheels – over paddocks and river flats, and a bit of bitumen. You’ll find bikes, helmets and suggested itinerary atPieter van Gent wineryin the centre of wine country.
Fine foods and coffee
Arrive hungry! This laidback historical town was once better known for sheep, cattle, and gold-mining, but now punches well above its weight in the food and drink stakes. Our picks:Pipeclay Pumphouse– a five star feast you'll still be thinking about weeks later – in the stylish surrounds of highly-rated Robert Stein Winery;The Zin House, for a meandering seasonal long lunch you will tell all your friends about, in a cosy converted home where well-known regional chef Kim Currie reigns supreme; a scenic drive for super yum cha at29 Nine 99(in Rylstone, about 45 minutes by car);Our Chowof course for coffee as well as local favesThe Dancing Goat Cafe,Alby & Esther's,andRoth's Wine Barfor dinner and tunes.
